11 Steps to Network Installation
Nowadays, the internet powers every part of our life. Modern phones, watches, and even microwaves have internet access. We use the internet to check our bank balances, buy gifts, interact with friends, and even work.
If you own a business, your building must also be internet-connected. Every network setup has an installation plan. Network installation expenses can be costly, but you have two options: engage a low-cost. IT support company, or you can do it yourself!
Continue reading to discover the fundamentals of network installations and how to choose the best network for you.
What are Wired Networks?
A wired network has several advantages, the most important of which is security. It is significantly more difficult for hackers to break into a wired network than to steal data through WiFi. Wired networks are also speedier because they do not have to transfer signals through walls.
However, wired networks might become complicated if you’re running many devices in separate rooms. Ethernet network connection must be run between each device and a hub, router, or switch to use this type of network. The gear for this type of network also has a higher initial cost.
What are WiFi Networks?
The most significant benefit of WiFi networks is their adaptability. You can run numerous devices in separate rooms on the same network without additional wiring and quickly relocate devices from room to room. These systems are also less expensive to install upfront.
Most wireless networks operate at roughly half their projected speed. Unfortunately, that adaptability comes at a cost, namely weakened security. These networks are also slower than wired networks and may need help with obstacles such as walls, pipes, microwaves, and filing cabinets.
What are Hybrid Networks?
Hybrid networks provide the flexibility of WiFi as well as the security and speed of wired networks. You can connect the cable to computers that require greater security and speed. However, you may also use your wireless network to power phones, tablets, and other wifi-enabled gadgets.
To get started, hybrid networks will necessitate procuring some specialised equipment. A router that can manage both wired and wireless connections is required. To get this network style up and running, you’ll need all the hardware for a wired network and a wireless network.
Plan your installation
Once you’ve decided on the type of network you wish to run, you can begin arranging your internet installations. This stage designs all of the practical aspects of your network. For example, where will your cable run, which rooms require specific connections, and how many data points will you require?
Begin by determining whether your network cables will run through your ceiling or beneath your building.
To achieve a total data point count, you’ll also need to finalise how many data points you need in each room. Each of these data points will necessitate the installation of specialised hardware.
This is one of the more challenging tactics to grasp and execute correctly. While doing it yourself can be advantageous, you must ensure that the network installation is done correctly.
Suppose you own a business in Southern California. In that case, it could be wise to spend a few dollars and engage a company specialising in IT services in Los Angeles to ensure that the setup is accurate.
Calculate your cable amounts
The next step in your network install process will be determining how much wire you require.
Begin by deciding on a location for your network hub to house your critical hardware. You can locate this hub in the centre of your building if you intend to run a WiFi or hybrid network.
Calculate the distance from each data point to your network hub and add it. Because cables cannot be joined, each data point requires a unique cable connection to the hub.
Add some additional cable to accommodate any patch leads you may require. Then, add 10% to your running total to give yourself some wiggle space, and use this final number to determine your cable length requirements.
Get the right materials.
The hardware that you’ll need to set up your network heavily depends on the type of network you’re running.
A wired network requires an ethernet hub or switch, an ethernet network adaptor, and an ethernet router. You’ll also need a modem and the appropriate wiring for this network.
Your hardware needs will be substantially lower if you run a wireless network. You will require a wireless network adapter and a router to handle WiFi networks. If you choose a hybrid network, you may require a combination of all these components and a specific hybrid router that can manage both types of network connections.
Grab Your Tools
You’ll also need specialised tools to get your network up and running. First, you’ll need a punch-down tool with a punch-down and wire snipping mechanism. Look for a model with integrated wire hooks suited for telephone and network cabling.
You may also need a crimping tool to link your modular connectors.
Finally, ensure that you have a network test tool capable of handling 8P (RJ45) and 6P (RJ11 and RJ12) connections. This will help you know if your network is correctly configured before connecting all your devices.
Position your wall plates
After you’ve completed your planning and gathered your tools and supplies, it’s time to begin the actual job of putting up your network. To begin, draw a line where you want to place the wall plates for your data points. This will require some careful positioning, so don’t speed through it.
In addition to being located in convenient, accessible locations, your wall plates should not be put near electrical outlets. You want internet wires to stay connected to electricity cables. You should also avoid using light switches and other electrical components.
Cut Holes
Once you’ve located and designated the proper locations for your wall plates, you may begin cutting holes.
Before you get any saws out, go to your building’s breaker box and switch off the power. You won’t be hurt if you unintentionally cut through any unexpected electrical wiring this way.
Make a hole in the wall that is the correct size for each data point wall plate. Before you begin cutting, always double-check your measurements and make sure your markings are level. If you need clarification on cutting these holes, you may always hire an electrician or a contractor to assist you.
Run Your Cable
You can start running all the cables you got now that you have a location for them to run. Remember that you’ll need to run a separate wire from the hub to each data point. Run these one at a time, cutting the surplus cable when you reach the data point and beginning the following line.
You may have to crawl around in your building’s walls or ceiling during this process, so use caution. Wear long sleeves and slacks to protect your arms and legs from scratching. Also, make sure to turn off your electricity during this process. Instead, navigate using a torch.
Test your cable
After you’ve run your wire, it’s time to connect and test everything. Begin by removing the insulation from the last two inches of your cable. There will be two layers of insulation, so make sure to remove them.
Then, using your crimping tool, connect each of the wires to its color-coded terminal on the rear of your wall terminal outlet.
As you connect each cable, use your network test tool to ensure everything is operating correctly. Each light on your tester should light up in the expected sequence. If they don’t, double-check that you’ve successfully connected the wires to their respective terminals and that both ends of the cable are connected to the correct device.
Install wall plates
Once your data points are connected and operational, you can begin reassembling your building.
Install all your wall plates, paying close attention to manufacturer instructions for organising wires and coverings behind the wall. Screw your wall cover plates into place and make sure any drywall holes are fixed and painted.
Set up your router
After you’ve connected your cable, you’ll need to configure your router. Check that you have the correct router type for your network. Your router is responsible for sending internet signals to each device on the web via the correct channels, and if it needs to be correctly placed, your service will not work.
Connect your router to an electrical outlet, and then connect one end of a phone cable to the appropriate wall port.
Next, when you access the linked device’s internet connectivity menu, connect one Ethernet wire to your router and the other to the newly installed ports. You should see the router’s name and be able to connect to the internet.
Set up your modem
You will also need to set up a modem for WiFi or a hybrid network. In some circumstances, equipment that functions as a router and a modem for wireless networks is available.
If you own one of these models, follow the router setup instructions, and you should be able to connect to the internet.
If you have a separate modem and router, connect the modem to an electrical outlet first, then connect the phone wire to the modem before connecting it to the wall.
Connect your ethernet cabling to your router on one end and your modem on the other. You can also connect the device directly from the router using this cable.
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