What is a LAN Cable?

LAN cables are surprisingly simple and at times an invaluable internet connection point that has stood the test of time as an office cornerstone or home hero. Since the late 1980s, LAN cables have ensured we can keep connected to the world, but what are they, how do they compare to WLAN and are they the same as Ethernet cables?

person plugging in their LAN cable into the router

LAN Cables Explained and How they Work

Ever wondered how you can keep your computer connected to the internet, or your TV streaming if the wireless Wi-Fi is misbehaving? You can rely on a LAN (Local Area Network) cable to help out. Think of it like a direct, old-school wired connection that keeps your device linked to the internet with no wireless support. As long as your home broadband has an internet connection, you will be utilising the full available bandwidth with a LAN cable.

A physical LAN cable can plug into a range of home and office devices, such as a TV, computer, game console, printer, photocopier and scanner. As long as you can connect your LAN cable to a device/machine, it will provide an internet connection.

It’s worth bearing in mind that these cables are only designed to serve a limited-sized area and typically one device per cable connection.

Here's how it works

1. The Physical Connection: First things first, you plug the LAN cable into the network port on your device and another port on your router or internet access point.

2. Turning Data into Signals & Send: When your computer wants to send information (like loading a webpage or sending an email), tiny electrical signals are sent along the twisted copper wires inside the cable. Twisting them helps to reduce interference from other electrical signals, making sure your data travels cleanly and without getting mixed up.

3. Decoding the Signals: The receiving device (your router) then reads these electrical signals and decodes them back into the original information.

4. Two-Way Street: Your router can then send information back to your computer using the same process. This allows for constant back-and-forth communication, which is how you can browse the internet, stream videos, and do all sorts of online activities.

Is an Ethernet Cable the Same as a LAN Cable?

You might also hear the term "Ethernet cable" when looking at LAN cables, but that's often just another name for a LAN cable. LAN simply refers to the type of network (Local Area), and Ethernet refers to the technology used for wired connections within that network. The cables used for these connections are often the same physical cable, particularly when referring to the common RJ-45 type.

This technology has been around since the early 1970s, and it all started with a simple need at the XEROX company. Back then, universities and labs needed a reliable way for their computers and terminals to connect. As the story goes, an employee named Robert Metcalfe wanted everyone to be able to print from XEROX's brand-new laser printer, and that's how the local area network was born!

So yes, a LAN cable and Ethernet cable are typically referring to the exact same thing.

Are all Ethernet Cables the Exact Same?

No, not all Ethernet cables are the same and split into different categories according to their performance levels.

CAT5e, CAT6, CAT7 and CAT8 are the main types of Ethernets (LAN cables), each with varying performance capabilities in terms of speed and bandwidth. The higher the category number, the better the cable's ability to handle faster data transmission over longer distances. For most people using an ethernet/LAN cable at home, CAT5e and CAT6 will provide plenty of performance.

What Does an Ethernet/LAN Cable Look Like?

A LAN cable looks like a lot of other home and office wires, but it typically looks like a thicker, more robust version of a landline phone cable. It has a coloured or translucent plastic cover over the twisted copper wires inside and features an RJ45 connector at each end, which usually has a row of gold or silver teeth at the end.

How Long Can a LAN Cable be?

A LAN cable can be as long as 100 metres (328 feet) in most cases as exceeding this will risk reducing the reliability of connection and overall internet speeds. Typically, LAN cables are 1-4 metres long and are very reliable at this length.

LAN vs WLAN Cables and Key Differences

Here's a simple breakdown of their key differences

Speed and Service Reliability

LAN connections generally offer greater speeds (Mbps) and reliability because of their direct physical link. It is almost impossible for the LAN connection to offer slower internet speeds. WLAN performance can be disrupted by physical objects and there is a higher likelihood of issues occurring with the service.

Mobility

WLAN provides flexibility and mobility as devices can connect and move around without being tethered to a cable and therefore a specific spot. LAN connections require your devices to be more stationary, as the cable length will dictate where you can have your devices while plugged in.

Cost and Service Simplicity

Both WLAN and LAN are generally easy to set up and connect to with new devices though WLAN is generally considered easier to set up and manage.

Security

LAN connections are typically viewed as more secure than WLAN because they can only be connected to via a physical wire. WLAN can be connected to by anyone if they know the network password (if there is a password), and it is generally more susceptible to being breached.

Latency

LAN connections typically have lower latency than WLAN, which is the time between a digital instruction being given and data being transferred. This is an important element for online gaming that can make or break a smooth experience. Explore our gaming broadband for super-smooth switching and online gameplay.

Speed and Service Reliability

Mobility

Cost and Service Simplicity

Both WLAN and LAN are generally easy to set up and connect to with new devices though WLAN is generally considered easier to set up and manage.

Security

Latency

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using LAN Cables

Here's a more in-depth look at what using these two different connection types means for your internet experience at home or for a business.

LAN
WLAN

LAN (Local Area Network)

Advantages

High Speed and Reliability: LAN typically offers faster data transfer rates (up to 1 Gbps or more) and stable connections, making them ideal for environments needing high performance and consistent connectivity.

Enhanced Security: Wired LAN is generally more secure since physical access is required to connect, reducing the risk of unauthorised access and external attacks.

Low Latency and Minimal Interference: Wired connections are less prone to interference from external factors like weather or electronic devices, ensuring consistent performance.

Cost-Effective for Small Scale: For small areas, LAN can be less expensive to set up and maintain compared to wireless networks, as they use extensive cabling and network hardware.

Disadvantages

Limited Mobility: Devices must remain physically connected via cables, restricting movement and flexibility within the network area. So, moving around with your connected devices will be limited at best.
Complex Installation and Maintenance: Setting up a LAN requires running cables and installing network infrastructure, which can be time-consuming and disruptive, especially in large or existing buildings and homes.
Scalability Issues: Expanding a wired LAN often means additional cabling and hardware, making it less agile for growing businesses and potentially a slower process in expanding homes too.
Distance Restrictions: The network range is limited by cable length, so devices must be within a certain distance of the network switch or Wi-Fi router.

WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network)

Advantages

Mobility and Flexibility: WLAN enables users to move freely within the network coverage area, connecting devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets without being tethered to a physical cable.

Easy and Fast Installation: Wireless networks can be set up quickly without the need for extensive cabling, making them ideal for temporary setups or locations where running wires is impractical.

Scalability: Adding new devices is straightforward—simply connect to the network without additional wiring, making WLANs highly scalable for growing businesses or homes with guests.

Cost Savings in Large or Dynamic Environments: WLAN can reduce the cost of cabling and is especially cost-effective in environments where devices or users regularly move around in the network range.
Support for Modern Devices: WLAN is compatible with a wide range of mobile and IoT devices, so there shouldn't be any compatibility issues.

Disadvantages

Security Vulnerabilities: Wireless signals can be intercepted, making WLAN more susceptible to hacking and unauthorised access if not properly secured and with a solid password.
Lower Speed and Higher Latency: Unfortunately, WLAN often has slower data transfer rates compared to a wired LAN, which can impact performance for high-bandwidth applications.
Interference and Reliability Issues: WLAN performance can be affected by interference from other wireless devices, physical obstructions (walls, furniture), and even weather conditions.
Limited Coverage Area: Wireless coverage is limited by the strength of the access point and can be further reduced by obstacles, leading to dead zones or inconsistent connectivity in larger or multi-level buildings and homes.
Higher Power Consumption: Wireless devices may consume more power, which can affect the battery life of portable devices like laptops and tablets.

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What is a LAN Cable?