Computer Network Cabling: The Basics

Written By Steve Bryan

No matter what kind of data is transmitted, the basic principles behind computer network cabling are pretty consistent across the board. A network promotes the speedy transfer of information between all the devices connected to it, which means you need the correct cables and equipment to accomplish that goal.

Cables are the data pipeline
The most essential element of any cabling project is, of course, the cable, the pipeline through which all data flows. Unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cables are often used in a local area networks (LANs) and have connectors that resemble the ones used in phone jacks. Coaxial and fiber optic also are quite popular computer network cables, especially in situations where you have to transmit a high volume of information.

Over the last few years, though, wireless technologies have become increasingly popular in both the home and office. With a wireless router, you can connect multiple computers to a printer or a high-speed modem, reducing the number of cables needed for the network cabling.

Connecting the computers
For a basic computer network cabling project, you will need an Ethernet hub and a Network Interface Card (NIC) for each terminal or workstation. Most computers sold these days contain a NIC, but these also can be purchased and installed in computers that have expansion slots in the back.

By plugging one end of a cable into the hub and the other into the NIC, each computer will then be connected to the network. Depending on how your office is arranged, the cabling service you use may have to string cables underneath the floor or over the acoustic ceiling tiles.

Sharing information: peer-to-peer or client/server
With the help of network operating system (NOS) software, computers on the network can share information in a couple of ways. A "peer-to-peer" NOS lets each user on the network share information and use applications located on other computers in the network.

In the business world, a "Client/Server" setup offers more security. One computer acts as the sever and controls the flow of information to the other computers connected to the network. It also controls what applications a user can access.

Testing the computer network cabling
Setting up network cabling can fairly straightforward at first, but careful testing is essential: one bad connection can ruin your entire day. During each phase of installation, the cabling installers should test every wire and replaced any that are defective. Make sure the cabling service you hire labels each cable to avoid confusion in the future.

Comparing multiple cabling companies is the best way to find a provider that will be thorough and accurate during installation and testing. Get free cabling price quotes from multiple providers and you'll be on your way to a great computer network.