Sure I can help with that. I know a bit about routers, but cables are another story.
So if you are hardwired to the router it would be better to upgrade to an N router, as it can provide a big increase in speed. Most N routers now can transfer data up to 300MB/s in a wireless setting, but only 100MB unless you get the gigabit ports. (and by transfer I mean move data in your network, not download speed). In order to utilize that 300Mb/s speed you will need to get a matching Wireless card to do so. That's only IF you want to use one, you can still use Hardwired and get the most out of it.
As far as security goes, it provides the same set up as a G router, you can set it up to your liking (subnet masking, MAC Addresses only that are registered with the modem, etc. etc.) and they also provide a much wider range of connection as well. I remember when I had my N router in my apt. and I could be at the pool which was about 75-90m away and still have 4-5 bars for connection with my phone. I personally have a linksys 300N with a USB connection so I can make a media drive, but I don't have that set up anymore as I moved in with friends.
I did some quick reconning for Cat 6 and I found out they are only best when you have a gigabit ethernet network. So, if you want to move data within your network and have a gigabit transfer rate for network'd PCs then definitely get that. Otherwise, you are probably better off just sticking with your normal Cat 5s.
I hope this has helped, although honestly networking is not my strong point so if someone has more specific advice it may be better.
So if you are hardwired to the router it would be better to upgrade to an N router, as it can provide a big increase in speed. Most N routers now can transfer data up to 300MB/s in a wireless setting, but only 100MB unless you get the gigabit ports. (and by transfer I mean move data in your network, not download speed). In order to utilize that 300Mb/s speed you will need to get a matching Wireless card to do so. That's only IF you want to use one, you can still use Hardwired and get the most out of it.
As far as security goes, it provides the same set up as a G router, you can set it up to your liking (subnet masking, MAC Addresses only that are registered with the modem, etc. etc.) and they also provide a much wider range of connection as well. I remember when I had my N router in my apt. and I could be at the pool which was about 75-90m away and still have 4-5 bars for connection with my phone. I personally have a linksys 300N with a USB connection so I can make a media drive, but I don't have that set up anymore as I moved in with friends.
I did some quick reconning for Cat 6 and I found out they are only best when you have a gigabit ethernet network. So, if you want to move data within your network and have a gigabit transfer rate for network'd PCs then definitely get that. Otherwise, you are probably better off just sticking with your normal Cat 5s.
I hope this has helped, although honestly networking is not my strong point so if someone has more specific advice it may be better.
![[Image: Connal_Fearon_130902013123.jpg]](http://firestream.net/arr/gen/Connal_Fearon_130902013123.jpg)
"Two wrongs don't make a right, but three rights make a left!"
