Cables are an incredibly important network architecture component. While many businesses prioritize upgrading equipment like servers and switches, network cabling often falls short of optimizing.
These cables help connect different devices and move data within the network. So, the network's performance, mainly data transfer speeds, depends on cabling.
In this article, we will provide the following:
- Detailed information on network cabling.
- An outline of the types of cables used in networks.
- An outline of industry standards.
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What Is Network Cabling?
Network cabling refers to the cables used to connect devices and transfer data and information within a network. These cables typically connect servers, routers, switches, storage, and computers.
Several different types of cables are used in networks based on the architecture and topology. It may also depend on the device being used and what type of cable it’s compatible with.
Network cabling technology has come a long way since the early days of local area networks (LANs). Even though wireless connectivity is common today, enterprise networks rely on physical infrastructure for more reliable data transmission.
The Role (And Importance) Of Cabling In Networks
It wouldn’t be wrong to say that network cabling is the underdog in the world of networks. These cables essentially serve as the medium for carrying data and connecting various devices. A network wouldn’t be without cables, as communication between devices wouldn’t be possible.
But the role of cabling isn’t merely to connect devices; it goes beyond that. Here are the main reasons networking cables are so important for the overall health of your network:
Speed And Performance
Networking cables play a central role in the speed of data transfer between different nodes in a network. The type of cable and its quality can impact the transfer rate. Even if your devices can send more bits per second, if the cable can’t support that rate, you won’t achieve the performance the equipment promises.
For instance, cat6 patch cables (Ethernet) can support up to 10 Gbps of data transfer. So they can be used with modern devices that need to send large amounts of data. However, these cables are limited by distance, as they lose signal quality over long distances.
Low Cost Of Data Transmission
Businesses and their users (employees, customers, etc.) produce much daily data. And that data must be transferred and stored somewhere for processing. While the cloud has emerged as an affordable solution for storing data, the scenario is slightly different when you have to save data on-site.
Network cabling provides enterprises with a cheap way to transfer data between devices and store it on servers and disks. Plus, compared to wireless mediums, wired mediums have lower operational costs.
Reliable Connectivity Between Devices
One of the main reasons why cables are still so common in networking is their reliability. They’re much more reliable than wireless media, especially when connecting critical devices. This is why Ethernet still reigns supreme in enterprise networking and will continue to do so, particularly within mission-critical systems.
Types Of Network Cables And Their Benefits
Here are the different types of cables used in IT networks:
Fiber Optic
Fiber optic is the most widely used networking cable, as it can transfer data over long lengths with little to no loss. The cables are made from glass, and data is transmitted as light.
Fiber optic cables offer many benefits, becoming the go-to for Internet connectivity in any network. Besides a high bandwidth capacity, these cables minimize interference and can be fire-resistant. These can be used indoors and outdoors, depending on their construction (sealing).
These are now much more affordable, contrary to the myths about fiber optic cables being expensive.
Twisted Pair
Twisted pair is another commonly used networking cable type, comprising pairs of insulated copper cables twisted together (hence the name). This twisting essentially removes any electromagnetic interference.
Ethernet technology also uses twisted pair cables. There are two types of twisted pair cables:
- Shielded Twisted Pair (STP): This type of cable consists of two pairs of cables, one for sending signals and one for receiving. These feature a metallic foil or braiding that adds a layer of protection. As a result, STP cables are better at stopping electronic or radio interference. These are also used for long-distance data transfer, often copper wire connections.
- Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP): This cable only has twisted copper wires. It’s commonly used in Ethernet connections. Several categories within this cable type, like Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, and Cat7, differ by data transfer rates. UTP cables are cheaper to install, so they’re typically used inside data centers for connecting devices both nearby and far.
Coaxial
With a simple structure, the coaxial cable features a copper core insulated completely and covered with a metal sheath on the outside. The insulation and external layer offer ample protection from impact and environmental factors.
Coaxial cables, ideal only for short distances, have become dated. While they offer decent speeds, fiber optic, and twisted pair cables have superseded the transfer rate, offering even better speeds required for modern applications.
Still, coaxial cables can be a useful and cheap solution for last-mile broadband connectivity.
Choosing The Right Network Cabling Architecture
Besides choosing the right cable type for connecting different network components, you must also consider the cabling architecture. Use a network cabling diagram to detail the architecture.
Here are the various cabling architectures used in data centers worldwide:
Top of Rack (ToR) Cabling
This type of design runs cables from each server in a rack to a switch at the top. In other words, every rack has its own switch in this type of setup. This design makes cable management simple and doesn’t require very long cables.
End of Row (EoR) Cabling
A switch exists at the end of each server row in this type of cabling architecture. The cable goes from the server to the switch. As a result, a very short length of cable is needed. This type of architecture can be scaled easily by adding more servers and their corresponding switches.
Middle of Row (MoR) Cabling
In this design, the switch is moved to the center of the row, further reducing the cable's length. Servers can easily connect with a nearby switch. Like EoR architecture, MoR is also easily scalable.
Centralized Cabling
In this network cabling architecture, all the cables are run through a central point. A dedicated room or point is used from where all the cables are distributed to the racks and servers. While this approach consolidates all the cables in a centralized place, it requires longer lengths. Large data centers use the centralized cabling system to make monitoring and management easy.
Structured Cabling
In a structured cabling architecture, the cables are organized by subsystems, for example, files, voice, or video. For instance, certain cables are dedicated to voice transmission only. This design offers a uniform and scalable approach for a specific data transmission subsystem or type.
Cable Standards
Like other facets of technology, networking cables also have standards, which is good. Standards ensure greater compatibility with different devices, regardless of the vendor. But more importantly, standards ensure the cables are updated with the new technologies and their respective requirements.
From designing the architecture of the network to procuring the actual cables, these standards will be frequently needed.
TIA/EIA 568
TIA/EIA-568 is a standard that offers guidelines for designing and installing twisted-pair copper cabling systems in data centers. It covers cable categories like Cat 5e, Cat 6, Cat 6a, and Cat 7.
This standard provides pinouts, cable specifications, and maximum lengths. Its primary focus is to ensure network devices' seamless interoperability and consistent performance. These standards in twisted-pair cables ensure reliable and efficient data transmission within any data center.
ISO/IEC 11801
The ISO/IEC 11801 standard is internationally recognized and used for various networking cables, including twisted-pair copper, multimode, and single-mode fiber-optic cables.
This standard specifies the requirements for performance, connectors, and installation of these cables. It's used globally in enterprise data centers, standardizing the use of these cables. As a result, this standard also promotes compatibility across a wide spectrum of networking environments.
ANSI/BICSI-002
The ANSI/BICSI-002 provides detailed guidelines for planning, designing, and implementing cabling systems within data center telecommunications infrastructure. This standard is instrumental in establishing a structured and organized cabling environment in data centers.
It covers various systems commonly used in data centers, from electrical to telecommunications. It’s a detailed multi-section document that can also be useful for data centers to implement high-performing environments and comply with regulations.
Network Cabling Installation: Dos And Don’ts
The installation follows the determination of the type, architecture, and standard of network cabling. This part is important because poorly installed networking cables are susceptible to damage and interruption.
Whether it’s Ethernet port installation or laying out the cables in server racks, there are some general guidelines that you should know.
Dos
- Stick with the standards: Follow the cable selection, design, and installation industry standards. This will remove any guesswork, ensure compatibility, and improve performance.
- Cross cables at right angle: If two cables have to cross, ensure they do so at right angles (perpendicular to each other). This ensures minimal interference at the point where the cables cross each other.
- Use proper labeling: Every cable should be labeled appropriately, especially in rooms or spaces with many cables. This makes it easier to access specific cables when needed. Label them at the origin and the end.
- Utilize cable management and organizers: Ties, racks, and trays can make cables more manageable and look clean. Moreover, organizers can also help prevent damage to the cables.
- Test cable installations: Thoroughly test and document any cable installation within the network. Ensure that it meets the quality and performance requirements and does what it’s required to.
Don’ts
- Don’t mix different cables: Avoid mixing cables of different types or categories. Each networking cable has a specific purpose and performance, so it may not work well if connected with a different category.
- Don’t make tight bundles: Ensure they’re not too snug when bundling different cables together. Bundling them too tightly may interfere with their performance and result in damage.
- Avoid running cables through hazardous environments: Don’t run cables in unsafe places, for example, near power lines or gas pipes. Similarly, if the cables run outdoors, ensure they’re protected from the weather elements.
- Avoid tight bends: Avoid sharply bending cables, as that can affect their signal transmission abilities.
- Don’t neglect to document changes and upgrades: Whenever replacing cables, document the changes. This will make it easier for any technician or engineer to identify and locate device connections.
Your Partner In Network Cabling Procurement And Installation
Network cabling is a fundamental part of any network, regardless of size, location, or purpose. Their role in transmitting data (which is what the whole point of a network is) warrants some careful consideration.
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FAQs
How long can a network cable be?
The length of a network cable depends on its type and intended use. Ethernet cables, for example, have specific length limitations based on their category. For Cat 5e or Cat 6 cables, the maximum recommended length for reliable data transmission is 100 meters (about 328 feet). Beyond this distance, signal quality starts to degrade.
How many types of network cables are there?
There are three main types of network cables: coaxial, fiber optic, and twisted pair.
Coaxial cables have a copper center and are insulated. Fiber optic cables have glass strands that transmit data through lights instead of electricity, which copper wires transmit. Twisted pair cables feature a pair of copper wires twisted together.
What is the most common type of network cabling?
Ethernet cabling is the most common type of network cabling for local area networks (LANs). Cat 5e and Cat 6 cables are widely used for typical Ethernet connections, while higher categories like Cat 6a and Cat 7 are employed for faster data transmission in more demanding environments.
Ethernet cables are prevalent due to their cost-effectiveness and versatility in various networking setups.
