Category 5e (Category 5 enhanced) Ethernet cables are newer than category 5cables and support faster, more reliable data transmission through networks. CAT5 cable is able to transmit data at 10 to 100Mbps speeds, while the newer CAT5e cable should be able to work at up to 1000Mbps. The CAT5e cable is also better than the CAT5 at ignoring "crosstalk," or interference from the wires within the cable itself. Though CAT6 and CAT7 cables exist and can work at even faster speeds, CAT5e cables will work for most small networks.