For an ordinary wired desk connection, choose a copper Cat6 patch lead with RJ45 plugs and the length your cable route needs. Working Cat5e can still serve a gigabit network. Consider Cat6a when planning a suitable 10 gigabit installation, rather than replacing good cables just because a higher category exists.
Choose the cable for the connection
A patch lead connects a computer, dock, printer or switch to another network socket. It is different from the bulk cable installed inside walls. Start with the ports and the route, then choose the category and length.
| Category | Practical use | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Cat5e | Existing gigabit connections | A working installation need not be replaced just to keep using gigabit. |
| Cat6 | New desk patch leads and general office connections | Match the required speed and channel length. A higher cable category cannot speed up a slower network port. |
| Cat6a | Planned 10 gigabit cabling over longer channels | The entire installation, including sockets and patch panels, needs to meet the intended specification. |
For context, Cat6 can support 10 gigabit over shorter channels, with conditions affecting the usable distance; Cat6a is intended for 10 gigabit channels up to 100 metres. Black Box's cabling guidance explains the distinction.
Measure the route, not the gap between the devices
Follow the path from the socket, through the desk's cable management, to the actual network port. Allow enough slack to move the device and reach the plug without pulling on it. A longer lead is useful when needed, but a large coil under every desk makes changes harder.
- Prevo Cat6 1m, black for short connections where you have measured that 1m is enough.
- Prevo Cat6 2m, black when the route needs more reach.
- Prevo Cat6 3m, black for longer desk routes.
These three models use RJ45 male connectors and are listed with oxygen-free copper conductors. Check current availability and the full specification on each product page.
Ordering for several desks
Make a list of lengths before buying the same cable for every seat. Count the links at the desks and any separate patch-panel-to-switch links in the cabinet. A spare of a commonly used length can save a second order; a box of the wrong length cannot.
For a mixed Ethernet and display-cable order, use the office cable checklist. It includes a clearly labelled five-desk basket you can review before checkout. Browse the full Ethernet patch lead selection for other lengths.
Power, materials and installation
If a cable will carry power over Ethernet, check the device's requirements and the cable's suitability. For permanent building cabling, specify the complete installation with the installer, including cable construction, terminations and the required sheath. A desktop patch lead is not a substitute for designing that installation.
For the switch at the other end, read how to choose a small-business network switch.
Common questions
Will Cat6 make my internet connection faster?
Only if the existing cable is limiting the connection. The internet service, router, network ports and other equipment also set limits; replacing a working cable does not raise their speeds.
Should every desk have the same cable length?
Measure the routes first. Standardise lengths where they fit, but leave enough slack and avoid straining sockets or creating large coils.
Updated 27 October 2026. Check individual product specifications and current availability before ordering.