What does it mean when a cable is referred to as "shielded?" Typically, shielded ethernet cables are used in high volume manufacturing or businesses with complex networks, or used for the outdoors to protect the cables from EMI (or electromagnetic interference). This translates to a secure, reliable connection with little to no interruption.  

What Is a Shielded Cable?

What's the difference between shielded and unshielded ethernet cables, and when should you consider investing in a shielded ethernet connection? When you're purchasing cables for your home or office data network, you're no doubt looking to set up a reliable connection that is strong and clear. This is where shielded cables come into play. Upon hearing the term "shielded cable," you likely think of some kind of physical barrier, maybe something like a tough exterior coating. Though some of the ethernet cords on Cables.com are made to handle being run outdoors, in this case a shielded ethernet cable refers to the protection being afforded to your data. Shielded ethernet cables allow for an additional layer of protection between your network connection and outdoor interference in the form of "crosstalk" or "noise" that can occur when multiple cables are run alongside each other. The "shielding" of a cable is typically made of braided wire mesh, or a foil such as mylar, wrapped individually around each twisted pair of wires, or it may wrap once around the whole group of four twisted pairs in the ethernet cable.

How Do Shielded Cables Perform?

The shielding protecting the strength of your connection in no way slows or dampens it. Our Category 6A Shielded Ethernet Cables are rated for speeds of 550 Mhz or more, which makes them fast enough for 10 gigabit applications. Snagless boots ensure a snug fit in the receptacle, and all RJ45 plugs used are 50 micron gold plated. They contain pure copper wire that's been foil-shielded, and overall braid shielded besides. 

These cables are suitable for use with connecting cable modems, routers, and switches, and are perfect for use with Office VOIP, data, and home networks. 

Shielded Outdoor Burial Cables

As we mentioned earlier, if you're running your ethernet cable outdoors for whatever reason, it's important that you consider buying shielded outdoor cable due to the added exposure to EMI. Our 23 AWG Shielded Cat6A Outdoor Ethernet Cables are rated for direct burial. They're waterproof and UV resistant, and they're built with rugged, durable high-quality PVC jackets that are resistant to wear and tear from pests and burrowing creatures. 

Buy Shielded Cables at Cables.com

When you're buying from Cables.com, we want you to know that you're purchasing the best cables available for your job, at the most competitive prices. You'll always have the option of building a Custom Cable for your cables need, as well as purchasing in multi packs or in bulk. All of our cables are proudly manufactures here in the US at our New York warehouses, and we can guarantee you're getting the highest quality cables for the lowest prices in the market. 

Not sure exactly what kind of cable you need? Remember to check out our Quick Patch Finder for Network Cables and Power Cords! If you have any questions or need further assistance with your custom cable setup, you can always contact us online or by phone at 800-372-3725 Toll-Free.

SHOP NOW: Category 5e Shielded Patch Cable - Cat6 Outdoor Shielded Burial Cables - Bulk Cat6 Outdoor Cables

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