Router-Switch Tech Journal

CAT5 vs CAT5e vs CAT6: Which Ethernet Cable Should You Choose in 2026? Choosing the right Ethernet cable is a critical step in building a reliable network. Whether you are deploying a small office network or planning enterprise infrastructure, understanding the differences between CAT5, CAT5e, and CAT6 will directly impact performance, scalability, and long-term costs. This guide breaks down the key differences and provides clear recommendations based on real-world use cases. What Are CAT5, CAT5e, and CAT6? CAT5 (Category 5) Max Speed: 100 Mbps Bandwidth: 100 MHz Status: Obsolete CAT5 has been phased out and replaced by newer standards. It does not meet modern network requirements and should not be used in new deployments. CAT5e (Category 5e) Max Speed: 1 Gbps Bandwidth: 100 MHz Distance: 100 meters CAT5e is still widely used and supports Gigabit Ethernet reliably. It improves on CAT5 by reducing crosstalk and providing stable performance for standard applicati...

GPON vs EPON: How to Choose the Right Fiber Network for Your Business or Campus Deploying a fiber-optic network for your business or campus can be complex. Choosing the right Passive Optical Network (PON) technology— GPON or EPON —directly affects performance, cost, and scalability. This guide helps IT managers and network planners make informed decisions based on practical deployment scenarios. GPON Overview GPON (Gigabit Passive Optical Network) is widely used in large-scale FTTH deployments and multi-service networks. Key points: High downstream speeds (up to 2.5 Gbps) Supports mixed traffic : Ethernet, voice, TDM High split ratios (1:64–1:128) reduce infrastructure costs for many users Best for: ISPs, large office campuses, multi-service networks. EPON Overview EPON (Ethernet Passive Optical Network) is simpler and entirely Ethernet-based. Key points: Symmetrical 1 Gbps upstream/downstream Easy integration with existing Ethernet infrastructure Lower initial cost for smaller d...

How to Mix Different TP-Link Deco Models for Optimal Mesh Network Performance Mixing TP-Link Deco models is completely possible, but to achieve maximum performance , you need to understand main node priority, backhaul options, and feature limitations. This guide will walk you through the process step by step. 1️⃣ Main Deco Priority: Choose the Right Unit The Main Deco determines your network’s performance and available features. Use the following hierarchy: 2️⃣ Feature Limitations When Mixing Models 3️⃣ Powerline Backhaul (Deco P7, P9, PX50) Key rules for Powerline-capable Decos: Set a Powerline Deco as the Main Deco . Powerline only works between Deco units on the same electrical circuit . Non-Powerline models will connect wirelessly.  Tip: Use the most powerful Powerline Deco as Main for maximum stability. 4️⃣ Ethernet Backhaul: Maximize Performance Ethernet backhaul is recommended when mixing old and new models: Connect nodes via Ethernet cables or a network switch. Nodes broa...

Cisco Password Types Explained: Type 0 vs 5 vs 8 vs 9 (2026 Security Guide) If you manage Cisco routers or switches, you’ve likely seen configuration lines like: enable secret 5 $1$abcd$... username admin secret 9 $9$... password 7 0822455D0A16 What do these numbers mean? More importantly — which Cisco password type is secure in 2026? In this guide, we break down all Cisco password types (0–9), compare their security levels, and explain which one you should use on modern Cisco IOS and IOS-XE devices. For a technical reference overview of how each algorithm works internally, you can also review this detailed breakdown of the six Cisco password types. What Are Cisco Password Types? Cisco IOS and IOS-XE support multiple password storage formats. These are commonly referred to as: Type 0 Type 4 Type 5 Type 7 Type 8 Type 9 (+ Type 6 for special reversible encryption use cases) Each type represents a different encryption or hashing mechanism. Cisco Password Types Comparison Table Detailed Ex...