Fewer failures directly translate into reduced financial losses and improved work efficiency. It is also worth mentioning the issues of equipment depreciation and replacement. High-quality network cables last longer – they can function flawlessly for decades.

Another important issue is data security itself. Shielded cables can protect against interference and unauthorised access to information.

Types of network cables – an overview. Which one to choose for your company’s infrastructure?

Choosing the right network cable is the basis for a successful installation. There are several categories of copper cables available on the market, which differ in terms of parameters and application.

• Cat5e cable – supports bandwidth up to 1 Gb/s. Recommended for small offices.
• Cat6 cable – offers bandwidth up to 10 Gb/s. Suitable for most business applications.
• Cat6a cable – guarantees 10 Gb/s. It is worth choosing it for server rooms and places with high network load
• Cat7 and Cat8 cables – provide even higher parameters.

Network routing and specific requirements for different environments

It is worth bearing in mind that each working environment has different requirements. In ‘typical’ offices, flexibility is a priority. Installations should allow for quick and convenient modifications to the layout of workstations – without having to lay new cable routes. In ‘denser’ locations (e.g. call centres), connection reliability is what counts. Conference rooms, on the other hand, require solutions that enable presentations or video conferences to be conducted.

Particularly demanding in this respect are: server rooms (where not only performance is important, but also the convenience of managing even the most complex infrastructure) and production halls (often requiring cables resistant to industrial conditions – while maintaining appropriate, safe distances).

Finally, it is worth mentioning the so-called regulated industries (such as healthcare or finance), which require additional security and data confidentiality standards to be met.

Laying cables – step by step. What to keep in mind?

Cable installation is a process that consists of several stages. Each of them is important for the final result.

#1 Infrastructure planning

Before you lay the first cable, you need to carefully analyse your company’s needs. Take into account all devices that need to be connected (not only computers, but also printers, telephones, WiFi access points, cameras and many others). Allow for some spare capacity and the future needs of the organisation. If you currently need XXX network points, install at least a dozen more. This will save you money in the future. Remember to take into account building regulations and industry standards. Some of them have special requirements.

#2 Cable routes

The way cables are routed is not just a matter of aesthetics. It also has a huge impact on functionality and further expenditure on maintaining such IT infrastructure. Most organisations use one of two techniques:

• Ceiling routing – works particularly well in offices.
• Floor routing – a good option for open-plan spaces.

Remember to separate network cables from power cables (maintaining the required distances). Where they intersect, use shielding.

#3 Distribution points

Ensure that the main distribution point is easily accessible to service personnel, but at the same time well protected against unauthorised persons.

Such equipment generates a lot of heat. Therefore, provide adequate ventilation and efficient cooling. As your needs may change over time, leave some reserve space for future expansion. Also, remember to organise the cables in the cabinet. The neater and clearer it is, the easier it will be to operate and service.

#4 Markings and documentation

To facilitate maintenance work (and more), follow a simple rule where each cable and socket has its own number. Use durable labels for this. The cable diagrams themselves should be logical and clear – the simpler, the better. Keep a special register in which all changes are documented.

#5 Cabling testing and certification

Once the installation is complete, the final and crucial step is thorough testing. It is worth including verification of signal continuity and correctness, as well as checking for any barriers. If you want to be sure that everything is working as it should, use a cabling measurement and audit service.

The icing on the cake is certification, which confirms that the infrastructure complies with standards and thus guarantees the quality of the work performed.

Do you want to be sure that the cabling will be done professionally?

Take advantage of the support of House IT experts, who have been specialising in cabling for years. Not only will we advise you on the best solutions, but we will also take full responsibility for their implementation, further maintenance and IT administration. Please contact us to discuss the details of your project.