Which type of Cat cable allows for higher average data transfer rates?

The correct answer is Cat6, which is known for significantly higher average data transfer rates compared to earlier categories of Ethernet cables. Cat6 cables are designed to support up to 10 Gigabits per second (Gbps) data rates over a maximum distance of 55 meters when used in 10GBASE-T applications. This capability allows for improved performance in high-bandwidth applications such as video streaming and gaming, making Cat6 a suitable choice for modern networking needs.

In contrast, Cat5 cables support data rates up to 100 Megabits per second (Mbps), which is vastly lower than what Cat6 offers. While Cat4 and Cat5 have their own specific uses, they do not provide the bandwidth capabilities necessary for today's high-speed internet demands. Thus, Cat6 not only offers higher data transfer rates but is also backward compatible with Cat5 and Cat5e cables, making it a versatile option for upgrading networking infrastructure.