Switching to Ethernet for Serious Gaming Advantages
Every time Wi-Fi speeds increase, it seems like our thirst for data grows with it. So, while speeds are faster than they’ve ever been by quite some distance, the games we play, the movies we stream and the sports we watch consume far more megabytes and gigabytes than we ever imagined. This is because the complexity of the games and streams is improving in each iteration, with the video quality and graphics becoming more realistic.
Being lost in a fictional gamer world is an important escape for so many of us. But any connectivity lapses break the illusion. Even with today’s fast Wi-Fi speeds and cellular data, the connection can occasionally falter and splutter. And with today’s games, a small glitch could make all the difference between victory and defeat. Anyone who has played with an inconsistent connection will know how frustrating it can be. So, can Ethernet cables make the difference? And which type of gamer can benefit most from it? Let’s find out do professional gamers really need to switch to Ethernet?
Selecting the right Ethernet cable type has never been more important as rapidly changing specifications, applications and technology has been outdating many previous choices in wire type.
Ethernet CAT speeds and maximum cable distance are only part of the challenges everyone faces.
There are many factors when it comes to choosing the right Ethernet Cable for your project type. These factors do change as advancements in technology constantly push limits and unforeseen environment changes can also affect your choices.
THE PROS OF SWITCHING TO ETHERNET FOR SERIOUS GAMERS
There are several benefits to switching to Ethernet for serious gamers, including:
Faster speeds: Ethernet connections can provide faster download and upload speeds than Wi-Fi, which can be essential for serious gamers who need to download large game files or stream high-quality video.
Lower latency: Ethernet connections typically have lower latency than Wi-Fi, which means that there’s less delay between when you click a button and when your action is registered in-game. This can be crucial in fast-paced games where split-second reactions can mean the difference between winning and losing.
More reliable connection: Because Ethernet is a wired connection, it’s generally more reliable than Wi-Fi. You don’t have to worry about signal loss or interference, which can be particularly important for gamers who need a consistent connection for long gaming sessions.
Some Common Factors to Consider:
Transmission Speed: Different 802.3 Ethernet standards support varying transmission speeds (e.g.100 Mbps, 1 Gbps, 2.5 Gbps, 10 Gbps, etc.). Ensure the selected wire supports the desired speed to prevent bottlenecks. Although you can protect your investment by leveraging an Ethernet Cable Extender that use very high throughput telecom signals over any wire – including coax, barbed wire fence, etc.
Distance: The maximum cable length for distance over which the Ethernet connection needs to run affects the choice of wire. 802.3 Ethernet distance limit is 100 m or 328 feet without having the signal to be retimed in a physical Ethernet switch. There are Ethernet Extender Solutions available that can extend this distance limit out to 9,000 feet or 2,743 m.
Cable Category: Ethernet cable wiring are categorized into different classes (Cat5, Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, Cat7, etc.), each supporting different speeds and performance levels. Choose a cable category that matches the desired performance of your applications and network infrastructure. This does not apply to Ethernet Cable Extenders that use very high throughput telecom signals as they use any copper wiring like 14ga landscape wire will out perform any CAT rated wire.
Shielding: Shielded cables (STP) offer protection against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI), while unshielded cables (UTP) are more susceptible to interference. Consider the environment where the cable will be installed to determine if shielding is necessary.
Installation Environment: Consider factors such as sources of high EMF (DC motors, AC light fixtures, X-Ray facilities and high power microwaves),extreme temperature, moisture (especially marine air), and physical stress(construction areas, heavy traffic) when choosing the cable type. For any outdoor wiring it is highly advised to use Lightning protection. Basic protection can be simple like a lightning surge protector.
Cost: The cost of the cable and installation can vary significantly depending on the type of wire type chosen. CAT 6 and above has the advantage with 10Gbps, however low cost 14ga landscape lighting wire and an Ethernet Extender can deliver 1.2Gbps is is far more cost effective than CAT rated cabling. Balance the performance requirements with the available budget.
Future Proofing: Consider future network upgrades and advancements when selecting the cable type. Choosing a higher category cable (e.g., Cat6a instead of Cat6) may provide better support for future network speeds and technologies. Again Ethernet Cable Extenders are Plug and Go Solutions that can nullify the cost of Category rated cabling or leverage your existing wire.
Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with existing networking equipment such as switches, routers, and network interface cards (NICs). Some equipment may require specific cable types for optimal performance. Ethernet Cable Extenders leverage IEEE 802.3 standards to ensure compatibility.
Code Compliance: Depending on the installation location (e.g., commercial building, residential area), certain building codes and regulations may dictate the type of cable that can be used. This is also a significant advantage for using existing coax or wiring and an Ethernet Extender to avoid costly upgrades.
Installation Method: Consider ease of installation and any special requirements for termination and connectors based on the chosen cable type. It is funny that the use of any WiFi wireless or Fiber – always goes back to basic copper for connections and can’t delivery power (PoE). Taking advantage of existing wiring is always the most cost effective solution and why we invented Ethernet Extenders to begin with in 1999.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the most appropriate type of wire for running Ethernet-based 802.3 communications that meets the performance, reliability, and budgetary requirements of your network.
eSports and Poker
Ethernet cables mean you don’t have to rely entirely on some invisible cloud-like connective power. They plug right into your laptop or console, making sure that no connectivity is lost in the air around you. This is particularly important for eSports and poker. With the eSports teams, dipping in the middle of a pass or shot. It’d give your opponent a huge advantage. Poker games are also becoming more complex, while using more data. Imagine getting the best hand you’ve ever had, only for your unreliable internet to bump you out of the game. All because you didn’t want to plug in an Ethernet wire.
Casino Gamers
It’s not just poker that is becoming larger and using more internet power in the casino world. Foxy Games published a list of the most popular games at online casinos today, and when you begin to look through them you get a sense of just how sophisticated they’ve become. Starburst has been going since 2012, and has a great colorful and cosmic vibe. Other games, such as Return of Kong Megaways and Big Banker Deluxe, will keep you playing for hours.
Steam and PC Gamers
With the Steam games that you play on computer consoles, it’s not just about the connectivity during gameplay. Some of the game files are extremely large, and the last thing you want – after purchasing a much-anticipated new game – is to have to wait days to get it. An Ethernet cable will ensure you get the absolute maximum out of your Wi-Fi. It means that even those who live in areas that can’t receive top speeds will at least squeeze every last drop out of their connection, and get those games delivered as fast as possible.
MMORPG
The whole point of MMORPG is to take you to another world, where you can forget all your troubles in the real one. Well, that’s where you need a combination of speed and consistency. It’s no good, as you venture through World of Warcraft, to keep coming crashing down to earth with lags and glitches. Life Wire published a list of benefits for wires in your gaming, and it is certainly worth a read if you want to improve your gaming experience.
Choose the Ethernet Cable for your Gaming Experience
Some key points to understand when choosing the right type of Ethernet cable to install are as follows:
Coaxial Cabling can be used in some instances if existing coaxial cables are in place, however, for newer computer networks (Local Area Networks), it is highly recommended to use the best ethernet cable to deliver maximum bandwidth for meeting needs today and at least 4 – 5 years in the future. Gigabit Ethernet is now the lowest standard for decent CAT-based wiring and ethernet patch cable – which may be more than sufficient for most.
Power over Ethernet (PoE) is best when using more copper (Electricity) – so the AWG should be at least .23 for distance.
- Know the slowest throughput device for your (Local Area Networks).
Is your internet connection maximum transmission speed? - Know the maximum transmission speed needed for your LAN device to LAN device, like if in a video studio you may need to move large files that can stress gigabit ethernet and may need 10 Gbps or higher throughput and ethernet switches.
- Do you have LAN Devices that require fiber channel, multi-mode fiber, or fiber optic cabling as a whole?
- Are you in an environment that requires braided shielding cables for a more reliable connection? Coaxial cables are typically shielded whereas stranded cable or ethernet cords are unshielded. If you find difficulty in maintaining higher transmission speeds – you may have hidden EMF issues that distort high-frequency electrical signals and may need to be replaced. Again Fiber Optic Cabling is always an option for a solution.
- You could choose a superior solution – The benefit of buying an Ethernet Extender from Enable-IT because our equipment leverages high throughput telecom signals over any wire – including coax, barbed wire fence, etc. Enabling distances unheard of in the industry. See chart below for details.
So, do serious gamers need to switch to Ethernet? While it’s not strictly necessary, there are certainly some benefits to using Ethernet over Wi-Fi. If you’re a serious gamer who values a fast, reliable connection with low latency, Ethernet is definitely worth considering. However, if you’re happy with your current Wi-Fi setup and don’t experience significant lag or connection issues, there may be no need to make the switch.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of each gamer. Before you are going to switch to Ethernet, make sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully and decide whether the benefits are worth the extra cost and setup time.
You can find your supplies on our web site and chose the best thing you need and our team will help you.
Ethernet Category Cable Speeds
Quick Note: Please be aware that as the amount of shielding increases in an Ethernet cable, its flexibility may decrease, and there may be a higher risk of wear and tear.
In the event that the additional protective shielding experiences constant wear and fails, your cable may no longer function properly and could require replacement. This situation can be especially problematic if the cable is located in hard-to-reach areas, amplifying the potential concerns.
As far as shielding is concerned, keep in mind the more shielding in the cable the less flexible the cable becomes. Also, keep in mind possible wear and tear on the cable. Should the additional shielding fail due to constant movement, your cable will be rendered defective and will need to be replaced. This is not ideal if your cable is in an impossible or hard-to-reach place.
| Category | Frequency | Max Data Rate | Max Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cat 5 | 100MHz ~ 350MHz | 100 Mbps | 328′ / 100m |
| Cat5e | 100MHz ~ 350MHz | 1,000 Mbps / 1 Gbps | 328′ / 100m |
| Cat6 | 250MHz ~ 550MHz | 1,000 Mbps / 1 Gbps | 328′ / 100m |
| Cat6a | 250MHz ~ 550MHz | 10,000 Mbps / 10 Gbps | 328′ / 100m |
| Cat7 | 600MHz | 10,000 Mbps / 10 Gbps | 65′ / 20m |
| Cat7a | 1000MHz | 40,000 Mbps/ 40 Gbps | 65′ / 20m |
| Cat8 | 2000MHz | 25 Gbps or 40 Gbps | 65′ / 20m |
To go beyond the distance limits for traditional Ethernet – use an Enable-IT Ethernet Extender Solution. These kits can go up to 1.5Gbps and use existing wiring up to 3,280ft / 1 km.
Extend any ethernet cable beyond the limits with Enable-IT solutions.
The benefit of buying an Ethernet Extender from Enable-IT because our equipment leverages high throughput telecom signals over any wire – including coax, barbed wire fence, etc. Enabling distances unheard of in the industry. There are Ethernet Extender Solutions available that can extend this distance limit out to 9,000 feet or 2,743 m.
The industry uses are endless – as everyone has a need for extended Ethernet many times in their lifetime and sooner than later the need will arise and we are ready when you are to help select a solution.
Diverse Industry customers include the US, UK and Canadian Military; NASA; Aerospace manufacturers; Nautical Infrastructure (Marinas, Mega Yachts, Cruise Ships,Port facilities, US Nuke sub fleet, etc); Video Surveillance and Security Specialists; Advanced Telecommunications companies; Extreme Mining Operators; Global Construction Enterprises; Commercial Agriculture companies; major Healthcare providers; Live Entertainment, Broadcasting, and News agencies; Extreme Retail/POS organizations; Long-Distance Education Companies; International Hospitality Companies; Elevator manufacturers, digital signage and much more.
