View Full Version : Ethernet cable length-does it affect speed of broadband connection
nattienoo
Jan 18, 2007, 02:03 PM
I want to get a longer ethernet cable as it is too short at the moment.
We currently have one that is just 2 metres long.
I would like to get a 15 metre or perhaps even a 20 metre cable.
The problem is that my husband says that the longer the cable, the slower the internet speed will be.
Is this true?
:confused:
The thing is, it's already too slow for me now so any slower and it would drive me mad!
Any ideas anyone?
Curlyben
Jan 18, 2007, 03:10 PM
There is a maximum useable length for ethernet cable, its around 100 meters, so no worries there.
Now what you really need to do is look at re-siteing your Broadband router to minimise the cable length.
If this isn't possible wireless maybe your answer.
You want to make sure that the phone cable going into the router is connected on a shorter cable (1-2 meters max) connected directly in the master socket.
After that ethernet cable will be fine, but try and make it as straight line as possible.
If you need to go intto another room or floor then it's time to get your drill out and make some holes.
cajalat
Jan 18, 2007, 07:11 PM
I want to get a longer ethernet cable as it is too short at the moment.
We currently have one that is just 2 metres long.
I would like to get a 15 metre or perhaps even a 20 metre cable.
The problem is that my husband says that the longer the cable, the slower the internet speed will be.
Is this true?
:confused:
The thing is, it's already too slow for me now so any slower and it would drive me mad!
Any ideas anyone?
Well in theory its true that the longer the cable the slower the speed... IF you can notice the difference between a few nano-seconds. And if you can then you are 1 in 6 billion. In reality there is no difference in speed provided you do not go over 100 Meters (as Curlyben stated) and that the cable is within specifications for the speed you're running (i.e. Cat5 for 100Mbps). 1 foot Ethernet is no different than 100 feet and you will not notice anything.
Point11
Aug 15, 2009, 02:46 PM
Having speed issues as well and wondering if having a longer phone cord with a smaller Ethernet cord would make a difference. I use a 50ft right now and a smaller phone line.
Point11
Aug 15, 2009, 02:46 PM
Having speed issues as well and wondering if having a longer phone cord with a smaller Ethernet cord would make a difference. I use a 50ft right now and a smaller phone line.