Buying an Ethernet cable should be simple, but comparing Cat6 and Cat7 can be confusing. Cat7 has a larger number, higher frequency rating, and more shielding, so it seems like the obvious upgrade. However, Cat6 is still the best option for most home networks. It can carry Gigabit Ethernet over a 100-meter channel and support 10Gbps over shorter distances. Although Cat7 is a true ISO standard, it was never recognized by TIA, which is one reason it didn't become the next step in US homes.

Cat7 adds shielding and boosts frequency to 600 MHz, mainly to enable 10 Gigabit Ethernet over 100 meters. But a Cat7 installation requires specific connectors and cabling channels, not just a more expensive cable. Meanwhile, Cat6 can handle 10GBASE-T up to 37 meters, which is enough for many home setups. Cat7's shielding may be useful in electrically noisy environments, but most homes aren't factories.

Your connection speed is limited by the hardware at either end, so replacing working Cat6 with Cat7 won't speed up downloads. For 10Gbps wiring, Cat6A is a cleaner upgrade path, supporting 10GBASE-T over 100 meters and available in shielded versions. For most homes, Cat6 remains the sensible choice, while Cat7 is used for specific purposes where Class F design or shielding is necessary. No IEEE Ethernet applications require Cat7 or Cat7A cabling.