Which ethernet cable? patch, crossover, cat 5, 5e, 6?
I want to connect my parents new mac (and their old pc) with their new router with ethernet . I don't need blazing speed, but can't figure out the truth with ethernet cables. The Cat 6 cables are more than a $1 a foot, while the Cat5/5e are much cheaper, and then there are the blue and green cables that are even cheaper. What are patch and crossover for?
If I can spend less $5 for 25 feet of cable, rather than $35 for 25 feet, that would be great, but if the more expensive cables are more than say 25% better than maybe not??
Also does brand make any difference? Radio Shack versus brand name?
thanks
iMac 24" 2.33 ghz intel core 2 duo, Mac OS X (10.4.10), Powerbook G4, iPhone, other older macs