What is the difference between shielded and unshielded Ethernet cables?Updated 10 months ago

The differences between shielded and unshielded cable and situations where they are used are summarized in our Cable Academy blog Shielded vs. Unshielded Cable.

In the decision process between unshielded (UTP) vs. shielded (FTP) cable, it is the environment the cable will be installed in that makes the ultimate determination. If one or more of the following common scenarios applies, then shielded cable is strongly suggested:

EMI/RFI issues:

• Alongside (parallel) with common AC wiring, especially inside walls
• Proximity to high voltage wiring or panels
• Within a few feet of generators or electrical motors
• See the Top 2 Things to Consider When Running Ethernet and Power Cable blog for specific guidance!

Outdoor aerial installations bring significant risk of ESD (electrostatic discharge) into consideration. Shielded Ethernet cable, in conjunction with Ethernet surge protection, is used to mitigate that situation. See the When Lightning Strikes! Ethernet Data Cable and Lightning Protection blog for more about that shocking subject.