How Long Can a LAN Cable Be? The Complete Guide to Ethernet Cable Lengths
If you’re setting up a wired internet connection, you might be wondering — how long can a LAN cable be before it affects speed or performance? Whether you’re connecting your computer, gaming console, or security cameras, understanding cable length limits helps you avoid connection drops and signal loss.
In this guide, we’ll explain how far you can run a LAN cable, what factors affect its performance, and how to make the most out of your wired network. Our team of structured cabling professionals in Santa Cruz ensures every network is built to deliver reliable performance, regardless of cable length or layout.
What Is a LAN Cable?
A LAN (Local Area Network) cable, also known as an Ethernet cable, connects devices to a network router, switch, or hub for internet and data transfer. Common types include:
- Cat5e – Supports speeds up to 1 Gbps (Gigabit Ethernet)
- Cat6 – Handles speeds up to 10 Gbps for shorter distances
- Cat6a – Enhanced version of Cat6, better for longer runs
- Cat7 and Cat8 – High-performance cables for advanced and data-heavy applications
These cables are made up of twisted pairs that reduce interference and keep your data transfer clean and consistent.
The Maximum Length for LAN Cables
According to the TIA/EIA-568 standard (the industry standard for structured cabling), the maximum recommended length for a LAN cable is 100 meters (328 feet).
This limit includes:
- 90 meters (295 feet) of solid cable (from patch panel to wall outlet)
- 10 meters (33 feet) of patch cables (connecting devices and network equipment)
If your run exceeds this distance, the signal can degrade, leading to slower speeds, packet loss, or complete disconnection.
What Happens When You Exceed 100 Meters?
Going beyond the 100-meter limit doesn’t mean your network will instantly stop working — but it does come with risks. Longer cable runs can cause:
- Signal loss (attenuation) – The further the signal travels, the weaker it gets.
- Increased interference – Crosstalk and electromagnetic noise may distort signals.
- Slower speeds – Gigabit connections might drop to 100 Mbps or less.
- Higher error rates – Data packets may be lost or need retransmission.
For reliable performance, staying within the 100-meter guideline is the best practice.
How to Extend LAN Cable Distance
If you need to go beyond 100 meters, don’t worry — there are a few simple solutions to maintain strong performance:
- Use a network switch or hub
Place a switch between two cable runs to refresh the signal. For example, two 90-meter cables connected through a switch effectively double your total reach. - Add a powered Ethernet repeater
A repeater amplifies and regenerates the signal, helping it travel farther without degradation. - Use fiber optic cabling
For very long distances (hundreds or thousands of meters), fiber optic cables are the best choice. They transmit data using light instead of electrical signals, eliminating interference. - Consider Power over Ethernet (PoE) extenders
If you’re powering devices like cameras or access points, PoE extenders allow both data and power to travel over longer distances safely.
Recommended Cable Types by Distance
| Cable Type | Maximum Length | Speed | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cat5e | 100m (328ft) | 1 Gbps | Home networks, small offices |
| Cat6 | 100m (328ft), 55m for 10 Gbps | 1–10 Gbps | Modern networks, gaming, CCTV |
| Cat6a | 100m (328ft) | 10 Gbps | Large buildings, business networks |
| Cat7 | 100m (328ft) | 10 Gbps+ | Data centers, enterprise setups |
| Fiber Optic | Up to 10km+ | 10–100 Gbps | Long-distance, high-speed connections |
LAN Cable Installation Tips
To ensure top performance and durability, follow these simple tips:
- Keep cables away from power lines and electrical interference.
- Avoid sharp bends or kinks — they can damage the internal wires.
- Use plenum-rated cables for installations in ceilings or air spaces (per California and national code).
- Label your cables for easier troubleshooting later.
- Test your cable runs using a cable certifier to verify performance.
When to Upgrade Your LAN Cables
If your connection is slow or inconsistent, outdated cabling might be the cause. Consider upgrading when:
- You’re running a Gigabit or 10-Gigabit network.
- Your cables are older than 10 years.
- You experience frequent drops or interference.
- You’re moving to a new office or remodeling your home network.
Upgrading to Cat6 or Cat6a ensures your network can handle modern speeds and future demands. Different cable types also affect performance — you can learn more about the two main types of cables used in networking and how they impact distance and speed.
Final Thoughts
So, how long can a LAN cable be?
The industry standard says 100 meters — but with the right tools, like switches, repeaters, or fiber optics, you can go much further without sacrificing performance.
For businesses and homeowners alike, proper planning and professional installation make all the difference. Whether you’re connecting office computers or powering an entire smart home, following best practices ensures your network stays fast, stable, and future-ready.