Ethernet cables physically connect your computer or other electronic device to your internet network. This physical connection is both more reliable and faster than most wireless connections and mesh Wi-Fi options. Moreso, it offers greater security because the signal cannot be picked up by devices outside of your house.

The biggest decision you will make when choosing the best Ethernet cables for your home or small business network is the length of each Ethernet cord. You can find everything from 6-10-foot Ethernet cables to 51-feet and up Ethernet cables.

If you are running cables long distances, you could also benefit from an Ethernet in-line coupler, which will combine two shorter cables into a longer one. Consider these tips for managing your cables when you are setting up your network. This will help keep things easy to access while not creating tripping hazards or messy piles of wires around your space.

For quality streaming, you will certainly want to connect your smart TV or media streaming device to the internet via an Ethernet cord. PS5 consoles and Xbox Series X|S consoles can also be securely connected with an Ethernet cable. Even devices without an Ethernet port can be connected when you use a USB-to-Ethernet adaptor or a Thunderbolt-to-Ethernet adaptor.

If you are handling a lot of Ethernet wires from various devices, you will need a network switch or hub that can accommodate many incoming cables and connect them to your modem and router combo. A network switch also helps detect the communication needs of different devices, increasing internet traffic efficiency and keeping everything running as smoothly as possible.

If setting up your home or small business network seems overwhelming, feel free to reach out to Best Buy for an in-home networking consultation. With the right internet networking setup, you can make your system operate fast and seamless so you can enjoy everything a secure Ethernet connection has to offer.