There are several different ways of cabling using a variety of different types of cable.  Of the different types of cable that are commonly used are primarily CAT5e and CAT6.  Both allow for speeds up to 1GBPS and, except for the price, both perform pretty much the same. 

In addition to the different types of cable – CAT5e and CAT6 - there are also different materials used in this cables.  Everything – performance, durability, cost - revolves around the materials that are used.  The materials determine such things as if the cables are to be used for only indoor use or can be used outdoors, as well as how they react to fire – will they release toxic fumes if they are in a fire (this is referred to as plenum rating). 

 

Regardless of the type and material used in the cable, the method of terminating the cable is the same.  The industry standard method of terminating cable, within the USA, is called “TIA/EIA 568B”.  This standard is not as widely used outside the USA.  Of course, regardless of what standard is used, it is most important that the same standard is used throughout your network.  The computer industry has learned over the years that standardization is a good thing.

During and at the end of the cabling job, it is important that the cabling technician double check every connection and every cable before indicating completion of work. 

While cabling is usually not a complicated task, hiring a knowledgeable and experienced person do the job may cost a little more in the beginning, but having the job is done right will result in minimal downtime (and lost revenue) and cost savings in the long run.