What exactly does an Ethernet cable do?
Ethernet cables have a pretty simple job – they transfer data between devices. They form a physical connection in a local area network (LAN), connecting computers, smart TVs, gaming systems, printers, and more to a router.
Compared to Wi-Fi networks, this wired connection provides faster and more reliable data transfer. Ethernet cables contain a twisted pair of copper wires for transmitting signals. While they are limited to about 30 meters in length, they offer top-notch speeds over short distances. Still, most homes use Wi-Fi connections, especially for mobile devices. But even so, you'll usually have at least one Ethernet cable connecting your modem to your Wi-Fi router.
For stationary devices like your home office or entertainment center, Ethernet cables are the best choice. They help ensure lag-free video calls, uninterrupted streaming, and smooth online gaming.
Common Reasons Why Ethernet Cables Fail
Ethernet cables are built to last. But there are some common problems that can degrade their performance over time:
Physical Damage: Cables bent at sharp angles or caught in furniture can damage the internal wiring. Pets chewing on cables can also have a detrimental effect on your connection! This physical damage can reduce signal strength.
Wear and tear: Months and years of daily use slowly damage the copper wires. The plastic insulation around the cable also becomes brittle over time. As the cable wears down, performance gradually degrades.
Installation issues: Improperly crimped cables or connected to the wrong ports can prevent proper signal transmission. Excessive stretching when installing the cable can also damage the cable.
While it's rare for a brand new Ethernet cable to be defective right out of the box, it does happen occasionally. More commonly, gradual wear and tear can lead to slow network speeds and frequent disconnections.
Ethernet cable at high speeds with pictures of online gamers
How to spot the symptoms of a faulty Ethernet cable
When Ethernet cables begin to fail, you'll notice connection problems occurring more and more frequently:
Slow speeds
Degradation of the internal wiring means that data can no longer be transmitted at optimal high speeds. Buffering, latency, and slow download speeds are all signs of a problem with the cable.
Intermittent connectivity
An unstable Ethernet connection that randomly disconnects network devices is most likely caused by a faulty cable.
Packet loss
Data is transmitted over Ethernet cables in small bundles called packets. Damage can cause packets to be incomplete. This manifests as streaming glitches, choppy calls, and latency spikes during online gaming or video conferencing.
Undetected Devices
In some cases, a severely damaged cable will simply fail. Your devices may not recognize the physical connection at all.
Of course, network problems aren't 100% blamed on Ethernet cables. However, if you notice performance degradation primarily on wired devices, a bad cable is the most likely culprit.
Artistic rendering of packet loss and binary code
Troubleshooting tips to isolate Ethernet cable problems
Before replacing a potentially faulty Ethernet cable, it can be helpful to perform a few quick troubleshooting steps:
Inspect the cable at both ends
Visually inspect the connector for damage and that the port is free of debris. Inspect the cable for any crimping issues, broken clips, bent pins, or frayed wires.
Replace a working cable
Swap in a spare Ethernet cable that you know is working properly. See if speeds improve across your network. This helps confirm that the cable is the problem and not something else.
Run diagnostics
Check the system settings on your computer or gaming console for network diagnostic tools. Run tests to identify if there are any issues with the Ethernet port and cable.
Consider EMI
Make sure your Ethernet cable isn't running alongside power lines or electrical devices, which could cause EMI.
If speed and connectivity improve after replacing a suspect Ethernet cable, you've found the problem!
Excessive cabling can cause EMI, picture shows wires and power strip tangled together
Replacing a damaged Ethernet cable
A damaged Ethernet cable can cause network problems and needs to be replaced. Here are some quick tips for choosing a new cable:
For good home internet performance, choose a cable capable of Gigabit speeds.
Choose the right length to avoid cables that are too long. Longer than necessary means more points of failure.
If running near a power source, consider using shielded cable to minimize interference.
Buy thick, high-quality cables from reputable brands. The small extra cost is worth it for durability.
Plug cables properly into the correct cable ports and avoid bending or straining them at extreme angles.
Following Ethernet cable best practices will help extend the life of the cables you replace. But cables degrade over time. If your speeds are slowing to a crawl, revisiting this troubleshooting guide will keep your network