Cat6A Ethernet Cables are rapidly becoming the preferred choice for Kenyan businesses due to its ability to deliver 10Gbps speeds over 100 meters with enhanced shielding, minimizing interference and downtime. It supports higher Power over Ethernet (PoE) standards, future-proofs network infrastructure, and boosts productivity by enabling reliable, high-capacity connectivity in growing offices across Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu. This cost-effective solution also supports emerging applications like building automation, CCTV, and WiFi 6, making it essential for scalable, efficient business networks in Kenya’s digital economy.

For IT managers and business owners, choosing between Cat6 and Cat6A impacts network performance and scalability.

Feature	Cat6	Cat6A
Maximum Speed	1 Gbps up to 100m; 10 Gbps up to 55m	10 Gbps up to 100m
Bandwidth Frequency	250 MHz	500 MHz
Shielding Options	U/FTP or F/UTP (basic shielding)	S/FTP or F/FTP (advanced shielding)
Crosstalk Interference	Moderate protection	Superior reduction
Cable Thickness	Slimmer, easier to install	Thicker due to more shielding
Typical Use	Small/medium offices	Large offices, data centers, tech parks
Power over Ethernet	Standard PoE	Higher PoE standards
Cost	Lower upfront	Higher upfront, better ROI

See our (Ultimate Guide to Ethernet Cables in Kenya)

• Bandwidth & Speed: While Cat6 supports 1Gbps speeds over 100 meters and can reach 10Gbps up to 55 meters, Cat6a doubles the frequency to 500 MHz. This allows it to sustain reliable 10Gbps speeds over the full 100-meter distance, making it the ideal choice for larger office spaces, multi-floor buildings, or long cable runs common in modern Kenyan infrastructure projects.
• Reduced Crosstalk & Interference: In bustling commercial buildings, data centers, and co-working spaces, cable bundles can be large and prone to electromagnetic interference (EMI). Cat6a features a more tightly twisted conductor design and superior shielding (STP or FTP), which significantly reduces “alien crosstalk” or interference from adjacent cables. This ensures cleaner, more reliable data transmission, crucial for uninterrupted business operations.
• Enhanced Performance Over Distance: The ability of Cat6a to deliver 10Gbps across a full 100-meter run is what makes it a game-changer for structured cabling. This is indispensable for businesses expanding their office layouts or setting up distributed departments across a large campus.

Key Benefits of Cat6A for Kenyan Businesses

• Support for 10Gbps Networks – ideal for cloud computing, HD video conferencing, and big data analytics.
• Reduced Interference & Downtime – advanced shielding ensures stable performance in crowded buildings.
• Enhanced PoE Support – powers IP phones, security cameras, and WiFi 6E access points.
• Future-Proof Infrastructure – aligns with projects like NOFBI and the ongoing 5G rollout in Kenya.

Real-World Applications of Cat6A in Kenya

• Co-working Spaces: Facilitates flexible workstations with consistent, high-speed connections across shared office environments.
• Growing SMEs: Provides scalable infrastructure that can evolve with business growth without frequent rewiring.
• Large Enterprises and Data Centers: Handles heavy data flows and extensive networks seamlessly, essential for banks, telecoms, and government institutions. 

Cost vs ROI Analysis: Investing in Cat6A

Although the cost of Cat6A cables ranges from KSh 12,500 to 30,000+ per 305m roll, their superior shielding and support for higher speeds significantly reduce network downtime and the frequency of costly upgrades. The investment extends network lifespan and positions businesses to handle evolving technology needs efficiently.

Cost Factors	Cat6	Cat6A
Cable & Install	Lower	Higher
Network Downtime	Higher	Lower
Upgrade Frequency	Frequent	Long-term stability
Support for New Tech	Limited	Excellent

When to Invest in Cat6A Over Cat6

Choose Cat6A if your business:

• Plans 10Gbps Ethernet across offices/campuses.
• Has cable runs over 55m.
• Operates in high-interference environments.
• Wants long-term infrastructure stability without costly rewiring.

Cat6A Ethernet is becoming the new standard for Kenyan businesses — combining speed, shielding, and scalability to meet the demands of a digital-first economy. For businesses that want to stay competitive, investing in Cat6A is the strategic and future-proof choice.

Buy Cat6 Cables in our product page (Ethernet LAN Cables Prices)

Common FAQs About Cat6A Ethernet in Kenya

What is the difference between Cat6 and Cat6A cables?
Cat6 supports 1Gbps up to 100m and 10Gbps up to 55m, while Cat6A supports 10Gbps up to 100m with double the bandwidth frequency (500 MHz) and superior shielding.

How much does Cat6A cabling cost in Kenya?
Prices range from KSh 12,500 to KSh 30,000+ per 305m roll, depending on shielding and brand. Installation adds extra costs.

Is Cat6A worth it for SMEs in Kenya?
Yes. While Cat6A has higher upfront costs, it reduces downtime, supports future tech like WiFi 6 and IoT, and avoids frequent rewiring.

Can Cat6A support 5G and IoT networks?
Absolutely. Cat6A is designed to handle high-capacity data traffic and power delivery, making it ideal for 5G backhaul, smart office devices, and IoT applications.