The Category 6a, or Cat6a, cable is the latest iteration of Gigabit Ethernet cabling. The a stands for "augmented" and is a nod to Cat6a's improved specifications compared with its predecessor, the Category 6, or Cat6 cable.
The Cat6a doubles data transmission bandwidth, from 250 to 500 MHz; decreases the chance of crosstalk interference; and provides superior reliability and transmission speeds through greater lengths of cable. Unlike most Cat6 cables, Cat6a cables are also often shielded, making them ideal for industrial use where additional interference may be a concern.
Comparison between Cat6a and Cat6:
Speed: Cat6----10 Gbps over 33-55 meters (110-165 feet) of cable
Cat6a----10 Gbps over 100 meters (330 feet) of cable
Frequency: Cat6----Up to 250 MHz
Cat6a-----Up to 500MHz
Maximum cable length: Cat6----100 meters for slower network speeds (up to 1,000 Mbps) and higher network speeds over short distances. For Gigabit Ethernet, 55 meters max, with 33 meters in high crosstalk conditions.
Cat6a-----100 meters across all systems and conditions for Gigabit Ethernet.