When to Upgrade from Cat5e – The Signs Your Network Is Holding You Back

For over two decades, Cat5e cabling has been the unsung hero of office networks. Affordable, reliable, and capable of handling gigabit speeds, it powered the rise of cloud computing and connected workplaces across the UK.

But times have changed. Today’s businesses rely on cloud-based apps, video calls, IP security systems, and Wi-Fi 6 – all demanding far more bandwidth than Cat5e was ever designed for.

If your network feels slow, struggles during busy hours, or can’t keep up with modern devices, your cabling could be the bottleneck.

In this post, we’ll show you the tell-tale signs that your Cat5e network is holding you back, the benefits of upgrading to Cat6a, and how to plan a smooth, future-proof transition.

Why Cat5e Was Great – and Why It’s Now a Bottleneck

When Cat5e (Category 5e) became the standard in the early 2000s, it changed everything – offering gigabit speeds up to 100 metres. That was plenty when most offices were running local servers and light internet usage.

Fast forward to today, and those same networks are expected to handle:

• Dozens of simultaneous video calls.

• High-resolution file sharing and backups.

• Smart devices, sensors, and security cameras.

• Cloud applications that never stop syncing.

In that environment, Cat5e’s 1 Gbps limit becomes a cap – while modern Cat6a cabling delivers up to 10 Gbps at the same distance, with better shielding and noise resistance.

Think of it as moving from a single-lane country road to a 10-lane motorway. See the ISO/IEC 11801 structured cabling standard for international network cabling classifications and performance categories.

Signs Your Cat5e Network Is Holding You Back

1. Slow File Transfers and Backups

If your team complains that files “take forever” to save or cloud backups crawl along, your cabling may be the bottleneck – not your broadband. Cat5e can’t keep up with newer switches, storage, and connected devices.

2. Lag During Video Calls or VoIP

Modern collaboration tools need consistent, high-bandwidth connections. Older Cat5e networks often introduce jitter, lag, and audio dropouts because they can’t move real-time data fast enough.

3. Patchy Wi-Fi Performance

Even wireless access points rely on cabling. If your APs are fed by Cat5e, they’re limited to 1 Gbps regardless of your Wi-Fi 6 or 6E equipment. It’s like having a high-performance car stuck behind a tractor.

4. Frequent Errors or Disconnections

Over time, Cat5e cables degrade – especially if they’ve been bent, crushed, or installed near power lines. This results in mysterious dropouts or packet loss that can cripple productivity.

5. You’re Expanding or Adding New Tech

From IP cameras to smart lighting and PoE+ devices, modern tech draws more power and data. Cat6a supports higher Power over Ethernet (PoE++) and heavier loads – while Cat5e simply wasn’t built for it.

If you’ve seen any of these red flags, your network is overdue for an upgrade.

The Benefits of Upgrading to Cat6a

• 10x Faster Performance: Cat6a supports 10 Gbps up to 100 metres.

• Future-Proofing: Ready for Wi-Fi 6, 6E, and cloud-heavy workloads.

• Cleaner Data Flow: Improved shielding reduces crosstalk and interference.

• Better PoE Support: Power cameras, phones, and sensors directly through your data lines.

• Long-Term Savings: Professionally installed Cat6a cabling lasts 15+ years.

A single investment today can save years of frustration — and make your next tech upgrade plug-and-play simple.

Planning Your Upgrade

1. Start with a Site Survey

A certified installer will assess your existing network, test cable routes, and identify which components can be reused. They’ll map out routes, patch panels, and switch requirements for a seamless upgrade.

2. Phase the Installation

Upgrades don’t need to disrupt daily business. Many companies complete installations overnight or in stages — keeping systems live throughout.

3. Upgrade Your Switches and Patch Panels

To fully benefit from Cat6a, your switches and panels must also support 10 Gbps throughput. Upgrading these ensures no bottlenecks remain in your chain.

4. Test and Certify

Once complete, every new cable should be Fluke tested and certified to Cat6a standards. This documentation proves performance, compliance, and peace of mind. Learn more about structured cabling standards from the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA)

Is Cat7 or Fibre a Better Choice?

For most UK offices, Cat6a hits the sweet spot — fast, cost-effective, and fully capable of handling modern traffic for the next decade.

Cat7 adds extra shielding and speed for data centres or critical environments, but its connectors and installation costs are higher. Fibre optic cabling is unbeatable for long distances or inter-building connections but requires specialist hardware and maintenance.

A professional installer can help you balance performance, cost, and scalability.

FAQs: Upgrading from Cat5e

Q1: How long does Cat5e cabling last?

Typically around 10–15 years, depending on environment and usage. Heat, bending, and electromagnetic interference can cause early degradation. If your cabling is older than that, it’s time for a professional test.

Q2: Will upgrading to Cat6a make my internet faster?

It won’t increase your ISP speed – but it will eliminate internal bottlenecks, making cloud apps, VoIP, and local file transfers much faster. In other words, you’ll finally get the full speed you’re paying for.

Q3: Can I keep some Cat5e runs and upgrade the rest?

You can, but your network will only be as fast as its slowest link. If one switch or room is still on Cat5e, it limits overall performance. For consistent speed and easier maintenance, full replacement is best.

Q4: How disruptive is a cabling upgrade?

When planned properly – not much. Installers can work overnight, on weekends, or section by section. Most businesses see little to no downtime.

Q5: Is Cat6 (not 6a) good enough?

Cat6 supports 10 Gbps only up to 55 metres. Cat6a extends that to 100 metres with better shielding, making it the smarter long-term choice.

Don’t let outdated cabling slow down your business.
A professional Cat5e cabling upgrade can unlock faster speeds, smoother communication, and fewer IT headaches.

At Data Cabling Installations, we design, install, and test Cat6a and Cat7 networks for businesses across the UK — with minimal disruption and guaranteed results.

Contact us today to book your site survey or request a free quote.