Who'll put in your network cabling?

Written By Steve Bryan

Because computers and high-speed data transfers are absolutely essential to businesses these days, it is a good idea to bring in expert help when making changes to your network cabling. Finding the right contractor to do the job can be a real challenge, though. Here's what you need to know to choose a network cabling service.

Defining your needs
Though there are industry-wide standards, a contractor must, first and foremost, handle the basic network cabling needs of your company, no matter if it is something as simple as adding a new telephone system or as advanced as upgrading to fiber optics.

• Is this an upgrade to an existing network or a brand-new installation?
• How many employees are using this network?
• Besides cables, what other hardware will be needed?
• Do you need the contractor to supply all the cables and hardware?
• Does the installation need to be done outside normal business hours?
• What kinds of cables are needed?
• What construction permits are needed to do the work?

Your answers should help you narrow down the list of available contractors to a select few. It's ok if you don't know all the answers – but those questions then become important topics when you do start talking to cabling services.

Choosing the right network cabling contractor
Many contractors have impressive-looking Web sites advertising their services, but you need to scratch below the surface and verify the following information:

• Experience/References: Experience counts, so look for companies that have been in business for several years. Contractors also should be well-versed in the type of network cabling you need installed. Ask the sales representative for a few verifiable references from companies with networks similar to yours and solicit honest opinions from those companies.
• Licenses/Insurance: Network cabling can be a complicated and messy undertaking, which means you want the best people to do the work. Make your selection from a pool of licensed contractors, verifying their status with your state's license board.
  As is the case with any construction job, cabling involves a fair amount of hard work above and below the office floor. The installers should, therefore, be fully insured by their employer for any damage caused to your office during an installation.
• Structured Cabling: When installing a network, a structured approach can save your company money in the long run. Contractors who keep up with structured cabling techniques and standards should be among those you consider to do the job.
• Certifications: Network cabling is an investment in your company's future, so any installer working on the cabling should have current certifications in the latest techniques and technologies.

To find qualified network cabling providers in your area, try BuyerZone's FREE cabling price quote request form.