Do you have a wireless network in your business facility? We hear you. Wireless networks such as wifi have become the go-to option for many businesses that do not have ethernet cables. Above all, most businesses fail to understand that there are times when you’ll require a wired network.
Have no idea how to set up a reliable wired network in your office? Simple. By running the ethernet cables through the walls.
But before you run the ethernet cables through walls, make sure you are well-versed in the process. Here’s a complete guide to running ethernet cables through walls during network cabling installation.
Planning Ethernet Cables During Network Cabling Installation
Are you aware of the basic process of wiring ethernet cables through the walls? If not, stop right here. It is crucial to be well-versed in the basic process and plan before you begin wiring ethernet cables through the walls.
Here’s everything to plan and the process.
Plan the walls
Which walls will have the ethernet cables is the first thing you need to determine. Decide the number of cabins to have the ethernet cables and the number of outlets before you start with the process.
Decide the route
Done with deciding the walls and outlets? Now comes the second step which is to create the route for the cables. Decide the starting point. It could be where you place your modem, router, or switch. The ethernet cable from your ISP will end there.
Consequently, plan the route to all the outlets from the starting point.
Pick the right cable
Do you know the different categories of cables? Some of the popular ethernet cable categories include cat5, cat5e, cat6, and cat7. Make sure you know in depth about these cables before you choose the one. Most network cabling installers recommend choosing a CAT6 cable for the network cabling installation.
Using good quality ethernet cables is crucial as the length of the ethernet cables running through the walls is long.
Gather the tools
Get the right set of tools to easily run the ethernet cables through the walls. The required tools are as follows:
- Stud finder
- Wire stripper
- Fish tape
- Zip ties
- Velcro straps
- Reciprocating saw
- Label maker
- Punch down tool
- Ethernet switch
- RJ45 crimper
- RJ45 plugs
Steps To Run Ethernet Cables Through Walls
No more wondering how to run ethernet cables through the walls as we have got you covered. Here are the steps you need to take note of while running the ethernet cables through the walls during the network cabling installation.
Rough wiring plan
Having a rough plan for the cabins and the path will make it easy for you to run the ethernet cables through the walls. Depending on the plan, estimate the length of the cable you’ll require.
Consider using software or online tools to draw the wiring plan. This step is not mandatory but it is good to plan. Map out the cables as some cables go through the gap in the walls.
Setup distribution point
The distribution point is the point where ethernet cables terminate. Here you can create your distribution point.
- Turn off the power while cutting/drilling walls. There aren’t any electrical wires involved in the network cabling installation but you have to make holes in the walls where the wires will run.
- Locate two studs via a stud finder. There’ll be a network panel in between these studs. Next, make a hole in the center to see behind the wall and if everything is proper, continue cutting the drywall.
- Properly arrange the cables by using a wiring panel at the distribution point. Next, cut the drywall that fits the panel and terminate all the ethernet cables using a network switch. A router/modem will be used to drive the network switch.
Cut/drill holes
Make holes in walls, or ceiling depending on your requirements. Make a hole above the distribution panel. Continue with making the cuts and holes in the walls for attaching the ethernet wall sockets.
Run the wires via the holes
Done with making the holes? Now, it’s time to run the wires through the holes. Don’t forget to label the cables to eliminate confusion. Labeling the cables will also aid you in troubleshooting the issues quickly.
Terminate the cables
Lastly, terminate the cables. Start with crimping the cables. Wire the ethernet cables at the wall sockets using a punch-down tool. At the end, secure the cables with cable ties or velcro straps.
Wrapping Up
Now, you must have understood how to run the ethernet cables through the walls. The next step? Find reliable and dedicated network cabling installation services to help with the network cabling installation.
