CAT-5 (5e):

This is the standard network cable for structured network cabling. This cable co
ntains four pairs of twisted pairs of copper wire which basically supports data
transfer up to 150 MegaBits per second (up to 100 MHz refresh). The twists are u
p to 34-40 per foot of a 24 gauge copper wire ensures very good signal to noise
ratio and stable Ethernet communications. CAT-5 cable can also integrate and tra
nsmit voice signals, token ring and Asynchronous Transfer Mode signals. This is
the most widely used cable for LAN and related networks. 8P8C (RJ-45) Connector
plug is used for extensions and connecting to hubs etc.
CAT-6:
This cable is everything of CAT-5 with better signal to noise ratio. Supports pu
to 250 MHz of refresh and is good (required) for Gigabyte Ethernet implementatio
ns.
Both the cables can transfer data to a distance of 100 meters on point ot point
context i.e. without any external amplification. CAT-6 is designed for backward
compatibility and hence can be used in all ethernetworks. CAT-5 suffers performa
nce losses if interfaced with Gigabyte ethernetworks, though it works. Short dis
tances may be okay. Coming to the patch cable, both can be used. Patch cable is
last piece of connection from wall wiring to the hubs and switches.