When it comes to networking, decent cabling installation is paramount to the entire setup. Why you ask? Because without a good cabling configuration you could either have a very limited network, or you could have one that doesn't function at all. That being said, let's take a look at a few of the reasons to have a good cabling setup.
The first thing you need to do is ensure that the right type of cables are actually being used. There are many different types of network cable available, and if you are getting a cheaper price for the installation, investigate the reason. Though you might not really need Category 6 cable at this moment, you can be sure that you will need it later on. That being said, pay close attention and make absolutely sure that you are getting the best cable possible without wildly exceeding your budget.
In addition to getting the best cable, you will need to make sure the cable is being laid properly. In other words, make sure it is not being run from point A to point B without hubs or routers. In a typical setup there should be one router and multiple hubs unless you want to run a subnet.
By having designated points for hubs, you have the option of adding larger hubs, which will permit you to have more computers on your network. More computers means the possibility of adding more employees to your business later on, and believe us when we say that you do not want to worry about modifying the cable for this later.
Having to modify the cable for this purpose at a later date is not only problematic, it can become a serious problem. You will find that modifying the cabling can be a difficult, if not impossible task, especially if you do not hire a good team to install it in the first instance. On that note, it is important to make sure that your cable is actually labelled so that you know which cables go to which computer, hub, or router. If possible, use different colour cables for different destinations. This might prove more difficult, or even more expensive, but in the end you will be quite happy that you took the time and made the effort.
If you hire a good company to install your cabling, they will be willing to come back and make any modifications that you need. They will also guarantee their work and fix any problems you might have free of charge. Keep in mind that your network cabling is perhaps the most important part of your business. With that being the case, you want to make absolutely sure that it works, and that it can support your growing business needs. Though this may be a tall order, you should be careful to ensure that it is an order that can be filled, and filled relatively quickly so that your business affairs can get underway and your networking investment will pay off.
Remember that networks are a long-term investment too. So whilst you might find yourself paying out huge amounts initially, this will ultimately save you more in the future. By getting inferior cables or other networking equipment now, you could find that future upheaval and downtime could well cost you more later. It's a balancing act, but one that you should have no problems getting right.
The Importance of Good Cabling Installation
By: Derek Rogers
