Ethernet Cable CAT5E Shielded FTP 100 FT Red - 1Gbps Performance

In this review the InstallerParts Ethernet Cable CAT5E Shielded FTP 100 FT is examined for installers and home users who need a reliable, interference-resistant network lead. The bottom line: it is best for environments with nearby electrical noise where shielding matters, delivering dependable 1 Gbps throughput and a robust build. The reviewer found the cable's shielded foil construction and 100% bare copper conductors to be the single biggest reasons to buy when interference or long runs are a concern.

Key Features

• Shielded FTP construction: The foil twisted pair shielding reduces electromagnetic interference and crosstalk in busy electrical environments.
• 100% bare copper: Solid copper conductors provide consistent conductivity and lower attenuation compared with cheaper copper-clad alternatives.
• 50 micron gold plated plugs: Gold plating on RJ45 connectors improves contact reliability and resists corrosion over time.
• 1 Gbps capability: Certified to support gigabit network speeds for cloud storage, video streaming and server connections.
• 350 MHz rating: Higher frequency handling helps maintain signal integrity over longer 100 ft runs in typical installations.
• Durable booted ends: Molded boot protection helps prevent connector damage and snagging during installation.

Who It's For

This cable suits network technicians, small office IT staff and homeowners who place a premium on interference resistance and reliable gigabit performance over a 100 ft run. It is particularly useful near power runs, fluorescent lighting, AV racks or other equipment that can introduce noise.

Casual users who only need short indoor patch leads for a single device might find standard unshielded CAT5e cables cheaper and simpler, while large datacenter environments that require Cat6 or higher would look elsewhere for higher bandwidth headroom.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Shielding effectively reduces electromagnetic interference in noisy installations.
• High-quality 100% copper conductors and gold-plated plugs deliver consistent throughput and long-term reliability.
• Booted connectors and a durable jacket make the cable easier to install without worrying about connector damage.
• Supports 1 Gbps and 350 MHz, adequate for most SMB networking and home streaming needs.

Cons

• Shielded cables are slightly less flexible and can be more expensive than unshielded alternatives, which may matter for tight cable runs.
• Not aimed at users who need Cat6 or higher for future-proofing beyond gigabit speeds.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The InstallerParts Shielded CAT5E 100 ft cable is a practical, value-minded choice for installations that need reliable gigabit throughput and protection from electromagnetic interference. It pairs quality materials and solid construction with proven performance, making it a sensible buy for installers and small networks that want durable cabling without stepping up to Cat6.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cable suitable for gigabit Ethernet?
Yes, the cable is rated for up to 1 Gbps and a 350 MHz bandwidth, which supports gigabit Ethernet over 100 ft runs.

Will the shielding prevent interference from nearby power cables?
The foil twisted pair shielding is designed to reduce electromagnetic interference and crosstalk, making it a better choice near power runs or noisy equipment than unshielded cable.

Are the connectors durable for repeated moves?
Yes, the RJ45 connectors have 50 micron gold plating and molded boots for improved contact reliability and protection during installation.