When it comes to building a reliable wired network, one of the most important components is the Ethernet cable. While most people think of routers, switches, or even the speed of their internet service provider, the quality of the cable itself plays an equally critical role. The fastCat Cat6 Ethernet Cable 1000ft is designed as a bulk solution for installers, home network enthusiasts, IT professionals, and businesses that need consistent speed and minimal interference across large distances.
This review dives deep into the design, specifications, performance, and use cases of the fastCat Cat6 cable, helping you determine whether it is the right choice for your networking needs.
Key Features at a Glance
- Category 6 (Cat6) Ethernet standard
- 1000ft bulk spool for large-scale installations
- 23 AWG solid copper conductors
- UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) design
- High-speed rating up to 1Gbps and supports 10Gbps over short distances
- Bandwidth up to 550 MHz
- CMR-rated (Riser Rated) jacket suitable for in-wall or vertical riser installations
- ETL verified and ANSI/TIA compliant for network performance standards
Design and Build Quality
The fastCat Cat6 cable is built with durability and professional installation in mind. Packaged in a 1000ft pull box, it allows installers to easily measure and cut the exact lengths required for custom setups.
The 23 AWG solid bare copper conductors are one of its biggest selling points. Unlike cheaper copper-clad aluminum (CCA) cables, solid copper ensures better conductivity, less resistance, and improved long-term performance. This also makes the cable more reliable for Power over Ethernet (PoE) applications, such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, and access points.
The CMR-rated riser jacket is designed for vertical runs between floors in non-plenum spaces, making it suitable for residential, office, and light commercial installations. The outer jacket is sturdy yet flexible enough for easier handling, protecting the twisted pairs inside without adding excessive stiffness.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Cable Type | Cat6 Bulk Ethernet Cable |
| Length | 1000 feet |
| Wire Gauge | 23 AWG solid bare copper |
| Shielding | UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) |
| Bandwidth | 550 MHz |
| Data Speed | Up to 1Gbps standard, 10Gbps up to 165ft |
| Jacket Rating | CMR (Riser Rated) |
| Compliance | ETL Verified, ANSI/TIA 568-C.2 Certified |
| Applications | LAN, PoE, VoIP, CCTV, networking, data centers |
Performance and Speed
One of the strengths of this Cat6 cable is its ability to handle high-speed data transmission with low signal loss. It supports Gigabit Ethernet across the full 100 meters (328 feet) and can handle 10 Gigabit Ethernet speeds up to 165 feet, which is ideal for shorter, high-bandwidth connections such as data centers or server rooms.
The 550 MHz bandwidth capacity provides ample headroom for modern applications, including HD video streaming, online gaming, and cloud computing. Compared to Cat5e, Cat6 offers reduced crosstalk and interference, leading to more consistent speeds and stable connections even in environments with multiple network lines running close together.
For businesses or smart homes with multiple devices connected, the cable ensures that bandwidth-intensive applications run smoothly without bottlenecks.
Ease of Installation
The cable’s pull-box design with sequential footage markings simplifies installation. Installers can quickly measure how much cable has been used and how much remains, which reduces waste and improves project planning.
The solid copper conductors also terminate cleanly into RJ45 connectors or keystone jacks, making it easier to achieve stable and professional terminations.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Solid bare copper conductors for optimal conductivity and PoE support
- High bandwidth (550 MHz) for modern applications
- 10Gbps capable over shorter distances
- 1000ft bulk length suitable for custom projects
- CMR-rated jacket meets safety requirements for riser installations
- ETL and ANSI/TIA verified for quality assurance
Cons
- Not plenum-rated, so it cannot be used in air-handling spaces where CMP is required
- Unshielded design (UTP) may not be ideal for very high-interference environments
- Higher cost than CCA cables, though justified by performance and longevity
Who Is This Cable Best For?
The fastCat Cat6 Ethernet Cable 1000ft is best suited for:
- Homeowners building a future-proof network: Perfect for anyone wiring a new home or upgrading an existing one with reliable gigabit connectivity.
- Small to medium businesses: Ideal for office networks, VoIP setups, and connecting security cameras.
- IT professionals and contractors: A dependable bulk solution for structured cabling projects.
- Data-heavy environments: Great for streaming, online gaming, video conferencing, and cloud applications where stable wired connections matter.
Final Verdict
The fastCat Cat6 Ethernet Cable 1000ft delivers a balance of performance, reliability, and compliance with modern networking standards. Its use of solid bare copper conductors ensures that it outperforms cheaper alternatives, particularly in terms of durability, PoE reliability, and overall data transmission quality.
While it may cost more than CCA options, the investment pays off with fewer connection issues, better long-term stability, and compatibility with future network upgrades.
If you’re looking for a bulk Ethernet cable that combines speed, safety, and professional-grade construction, the fastCat Cat6 is a strong contender for both residential and business installations.