Cat6 and Cat6a for horizontal runs
Cat6 supports 1 Gbps to 100 meters, the default for desk outlets and Wi-Fi AP homeruns in Kenyan offices. Cat6a adds headroom for 10 Gbps on shorter runs in server rooms.
Use solid copper for in wall and ceiling runs, stranded patch cords only at the desk. Terminate on keystone jacks or patch panels, never rely on couplers in the ceiling.
- Label both ends of every cable in the rack
- Keep copper away from high voltage trays
- Test with a certifier or at minimum a wire map tester
Fiber for backbone and long distances
Single mode fiber links blocks in campus sites, basement MDF to roof APs, and ISP handoff points beyond 90 meters. OS2 cable with LC connectors is standard on new builds in Nairobi CBD and logistics parks.
Use media converters or SFP modules that match wavelength and connector type. Document core count and patch panel port map for the facilities team.
Rack layout that passes audit
Dress cables on horizontal managers, leave service loop, and separate fiber and copper trays. A 12U wall rack is enough for many SME sites. Larger ISPs need 42U with PDU metering.
Module Ventures supplies patch panels, keystones, racks, and bulk cable with stock visibility online. WhatsApp a bill of quantities for project pricing.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cat5e still acceptable in 2026?
Cat5e works for 1 Gbps on short runs but Cat6 is the better default for new installs in Kenya. The price gap is small on bulk orders.