What is the name of the cable from Wi-Fi to a computer: a complete guide to types and connections

When it comes to connecting a computer to the internet via a router, many users encounter confusion over terminology. "What is the name of the cable from the Wi-Fi to the computer?" is a question that comes up more often than you might think. In fact, connecting to Wi-Fi wireless by definition, but for stable and high-speed communication it is often used wired connection between the router and the PC. This cable has different names: Ethernet cable, LAN cable, network cable or patch cordIn this article, we'll cover all the nuances—from the names to choosing the best option for your needs.

It's important to understand that the term "Wi-Fi cable" is a simplification. In practice, it refers to the physical connection between the device and the router, which provides more reliable and faster internet access than a wireless network. This is especially important for gamers, streamers, and anyone working with large files. Below, we'll take a detailed look at all types of these cables, their characteristics, and how to connect them correctly to avoid common mistakes.

Why a Wired Connection is Better than Wi-Fi: 5 Key Benefits

Before we get into the names and types of cables, it's worth understanding why you would use a wire at all if you have one. Wi-FiHere are the main reasons why Ethernet remains relevant even in the era of wireless technologies:

• 🚀 Speed: A wired connection can provide speeds up to 10 Gbps (depending on the cable standard), while even the most modern Wi-Fi 6 rarely exceeds 1–2 Gbps in real conditions.
• 📶 StabilityA wired connection isn't affected by interference from other devices, walls, or distance from the router. This is critical for online gaming or video conferencing.
• 🛡️ SecurityIntercepting data over a wire is more difficult than over the air. This is important for corporate networks or those working with confidential information.
• ⚡ Low latency (ping): For gamers latency (ping) via cable is 2-3 times lower than via Wi-Fi, which directly affects the response in games.
• 🔋 Energy efficiency: A network card in Ethernet mode consumes less power than a Wi-Fi adapter, which is important for laptops.

Of course, a wired connection has its downsides, such as being tied to a specific location or having to run cables throughout the apartment. But in most cases, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. If you need maximum performance, LAN cable will be the best choice.

What is the correct name for the cable from the router to the computer?

Now let's move on to the main question: what is this cable called? Several names are used, depending on the context and technical terminology. They all mean the same thing, but may differ in common usage and documentation:

• 🔌 Ethernet cable — the most common name, derived from the standard Ethernet, which describes wired network technology.
• 🌐 LAN cable (Local Area Network) - emphasis on the local network to which the device is connected.
• 🔗 Network cable — a general name that can also refer to other types of cables (for example, for telephony), but in the context of the Internet it means Ethernet.
• 🔄 Patch cord - a short cable (usually up to 5 meters) with connectors RJ-45 at both ends, used to connect devices on a network.
• 📡 UTP/STP cable — name by type of screening (UTP - unshielded twisted pair, STP - shielded).

The most common terms found in stores and instructions are Ethernet cable or LAN cableIf you're looking to buy it, you can use any of these options—the sellers will understand what you need. The main thing is to pay attention to cable category (more on this in the next section), since the maximum data transfer rate depends on it.

⚠️ Attention: Sometimes you hear the term "internet cable" in colloquial speech. This is not entirely correct, as the internet can also be transmitted via other types of cables (for example, fiber optic or coaxial cable for TV). "Internet cable" is usually used to refer specifically to Ethernet.

Ethernet Cable Categories: Which One to Choose for Maximum Speed?

Not all network cables are created equal. They differ in categories (designated as Cat), which determine throughput and maximum speed. Here are the main categories that are relevant today:

For most home users, the best choice would be Cat 6It provides speed up to 10 Gbps at a distance of up to 55 meters, which is more than enough to connect a computer to the router. If you have a gigabit internet plan, Cat 5e This will also work, but without any reserves for the future. Cat 6a and above are relevant for professional tasks or if you are laying a network in a large house with long lines.

⚠️ Attention: The cable speed is limited by the weakest link in the chain. For example, if your router has ports 100 Mbps, then even Cat 8 It won't give you a speed higher than this. Check the specifications of your router and PC network card before purchasing.

Shielding Types: UTP vs. STP – Which is Better for Home Use?

In addition to their category, network cables are differentiated by their shielding type. This affects their resistance to interference and, therefore, the stability of the connection. Let's look at the two main types:

• 🔄 UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) — unshielded twisted pairThe most common and cost-effective option. Suitable for home networks without strong electromagnetic interference. For example, if the cable is routed along a wall away from electrical wiring.
• 🛡️ STP (Shielded Twisted Pair) — shielded twisted pairIt has an additional protective layer (foil or braid) that reduces interference. This is especially useful for offices with a lot of electrical equipment, or if the cable is installed near strong sources of interference (for example, near a microwave or air conditioner).

For most home users UTP will be sufficient. However, if you notice frequent connection drops or low speeds while using Cat 6 and above, it's worth a try STPShielded cables are also recommended for long-distance installations (over 30 meters) or in conditions of high network loads.

There are also intermediate options, for example, FTP (Foiled Twisted Pair), where only the overall braid is shielded, but not each pair individually. This is a low-cost alternative. STP, but with less protection.

How to connect a router cable to a computer: step-by-step instructions

Now that you know which cable to choose, let's figure out how to connect it correctly. The process isn't complicated, but there are a few nuances to avoid mistakes.

1. Check the ports on your router and PC.
   

   Look for connectors on the router LAN (usually yellow and numbered: 1, 2, 3, 4). On the computer port Ethernet It looks like a wide connector with a latch. It may be missing on laptops, in which case you'll need USB-Ethernet adapter.

2. Connect the cable.
   

   Insert one end of the cable into the port LAN on the router, and the other one in Ethernet port computer. Connector RJ-45 Insert until it clicks into place. Do not apply excessive force to avoid damaging the port.

3. Check the indicators.
   

   The port indicator on the router should light up. LAN (usually green or orange). Some PC network cards also have an LED that indicates a connection.

4. Set up the network (if required).
   

   In most cases, Windows and other operating systems automatically receive settings from DHCPIf the internet doesn't work, check your network connection settings (see below).

If the Internet does not appear after connecting, follow these steps:

• 🔄 Restart your router and computer. Sometimes this helps to clear temporary errors.
• 🔧 Check the cable for damage. Inspect the connectors and the cable itself for kinks or breaks.
• 📡 Make sure your router is turned on DHCP. This can be checked in the router's web interface (usually at 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1).
• 🖥️ Update your network card driver. Go to device Manager (Win + X) and check the status of the network adapter.

Common connection errors and how to avoid them

Even something as simple as connecting a cable can cause errors. Here are the most common ones and how to fix them:

• 🔌 The cable is not fully inserted into the port.
  

  Make sure the connector RJ-45 It snapped into place with a distinctive click. If the latch is broken, the cable may fall out with the slightest movement.

• 🔄 A damaged cable is used.
  

  The twisted pairs inside the cable are very thin and easily broken when bent too tightly. Check the cable for kinks or twists.

• 📡 The port on the router or PC is faulty.
  

  Try connecting the cable to a different port. LAN on the router. If that doesn't help, check the port on your PC using another device (for example, another computer).

• 🔧 Incorrect IP settings.
  

  If the network is disconnected DHCP, your computer won't receive an IP address automatically. In this case, you'll need to configure a static IP manually (instructions below).

• 🛡️ Firewall or antivirus is blocking the network.
  

  Temporarily disable your antivirus and check if your internet connection is back online. If so, add your network connection to the exceptions list.

If you suspect the problem is with your IP settings, follow these steps in Windows:

1. Click Win + R, enter ncpa.cpl and press Enter.
2. Find a connection Ethernet, right click and select Properties.
3. Select Internet Protocol version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and press Properties.
4. Make sure it is selected Obtain an IP address automatically.

⚠️ Attention: If you manually assigned a static IP and forgot it, your computer will be unable to connect to the network. In this case, reset the settings to automatic or contact your network administrator to confirm the correct IP.

How to extend an Ethernet cable without losing speed?

Sometimes the standard cable length (usually 1.5–5 meters) isn't long enough to reach from the router to the computer. In this case, there are several ways to extend the connection:

• 🔗 Use a longer cable.
  

  You can buy a cable of the required length (up to 100 meters for Cat 6a). The main thing is not to twist it and not to lay it near sources of interference.

• 🔄 Use a power strip (repeater).
  

  Devices of the type TP-Link TL-PA4010 Powerline (or "powerline") transmits a signal through electrical wiring. The speed is lower than cable, but it's convenient when running a wire isn't feasible.

• 📡 Connect via Wi-Fi bridge.
  

  Some routers (eg. ASUS RT-AX88U) support the regime Media Bridge, converting the wireless signal into a wired one. The speed will be limited by Wi-Fi capabilities.

• 🔧 Use a switch.
  

  If you need to connect multiple devices, install gigabit switch (For example, TP-Link TL-SG105) and connect a cable from the router to it, and then distribute the connection to other devices.

Important: When extending the cable beyond 100 meters, active network equipment will be required (for example, signal repeater or amplifier), since signal attenuation will make the connection unstable.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about network cables

1. White and orange
2. Orange
3. White and green
4. Blue
5. White and blue
6. Green
7. White and brown
8. Brown