CAT-5E Ethernet Cable 175ft Direct Burial Outdoor - Solid 24AWG

Our review of this 175ft outdoor Ethernet cable finds it best for installers and homeowners who need a durable, direct burial Cat-5e run without relying on connectors or patch panels in wet environments. The bottom line is straightforward: this cable delivers solid 24AWG pure copper conductors, EIA/TIA-568B compliance and UL ETL listing, giving confidence for high-speed network runs up to 350MHz while being built for underground placement. It is a practical choice when a long, continuous solid copper Cat-5e cable with gel-filled protection and EZ pass through RJ45 compatibility is needed.

Key Features

• Direct burial rating: The cable is designed for underground installation, so runs can be placed without additional conduit in many outdoor scenarios.
• Pure solid copper 24AWG: Solid conductors provide stable signal transmission for long runs and reduce attenuation compared with some stranded alternatives.
• Up to 350MHz performance: The Cat-5e spec and performance rating make it suitable for gigabit Ethernet and typical LAN traffic without frequent signal loss.
• Gel filled waterproofing: Gel coat braids protect pairs from moisture intrusion at the cable level, improving reliability in damp conditions.
• EZ pass through RJ45 compatible: The cable is prepared for pass-through RJ45 plugs to simplify terminations for field assemblies.
• UL ETL and EIA/TIA compliant: Meets recognized standards for safety and wiring to ensure predictable installation behavior.

Who It's For

This cable suits network installers, security camera contractors, and homeowners who need a long, continuous Ethernet run from a building to outdoor gear such as cameras, access points, or networked sensors. The solid 24AWG conductors favor permanent runs where the cable will not be flexed repeatedly and where burial or direct contact with soil is likely.

It is less appropriate for applications that require frequent movement, temporary patching, or prolonged submersion; the manufacturer notes the cable should not be submerged for long periods and recommends keeping ends away from still water. For flexible patch cords or permanent underwater installations, choose a product designed specifically for those use cases.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Solid pure copper 24AWG conductors deliver consistent signal quality for long runs.
• Direct burial and gel-filled construction provide robust moisture resistance for underground installation.
• UL ETL listing and EIA/TIA-568B compliance offer confidence in safety and wiring standards.
• 175ft length covers most residential and small commercial outdoor runs without splicing.

Cons

• Not intended for long-term submersion, so it is not suitable for installations that will sit underwater.
• Solid cable is not ideal where repeated flexing or frequent reconfiguration is required.

Specifications

Cable Type	CAT-5E 4-Pair UTP
Length	175 ft
Conductor	24AWG solid pure copper
Cable Rating	Direct burial for underground application
Performance	Up to 350MHz
Connector	EZ pass through RJ45 compatible
Certifications	UL ETL listed, EIA/TIA-568B compliant

Our Verdict

For anyone running a permanent outdoor Ethernet line, this 175ft Cat-5e direct burial cable is a practical, cost-effective option that balances performance and durability. The solid 24AWG copper conductors, gel-filled protection and UL ETL listing make it a reliable choice for typical outdoor networking tasks while avoiding unnecessary expense for higher category cables when Cat-5e performance is sufficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this cable be buried directly in the ground?
Yes, it is rated for direct burial and gel-filled for moisture resistance, but ends and connectors should be protected and kept away from still water.

Is this cable suitable for gigabit Ethernet?
Yes, Cat-5e performance up to 350MHz supports gigabit Ethernet over proper runs with quality terminations.

Can it be used underwater or submerged long term?
No, the manufacturer advises against long-term submersion; keep the cable ends at recommended clearances from still water.