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Structured Cabling for a New Office: What to Arrange Before Moving In
Structured cabling is the foundation of a reliable network. Learn what to plan before renovation or moving in: cable categories, network racks, Wi-Fi access points, and documentation.
Structured cabling is an organized system of network cables, sockets, and a network rack that connects all devices in the office. Once the walls are closed, mistakes become expensive — so the best time for planning is before renovation or moving into new premises.
TL;DR — Key Takeaways
- Plan cabling before the renovation, not after.
- Use at least Category 6 or 6A for future-proofing.
- Ensure enough ports and ceiling cables for Wi-Fi access points.
- Demand certification measurements and documentation.
What to Plan
| Element | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Cables | Cat 6 / Cat 6A |
| Ports per workstation | At least 2 |
| Wi-Fi Access Points | PoE cable on the ceiling, coverage plan |
| Network Rack | Ventilated, with spare space and UPS |
| Labeling | Every socket labeled and documented |
| Testing | Certification measurements for all links |
Most Common Mistakes
- Too few ports — leading to messy switches under desks later.
- Wi-Fi deployed without a coverage heat map.
- Network rack placed in a cleaning closet without cooling.
- No documentation showing which cable goes where.
The Process
- Site survey and workstation layout planning.
- Cabling and network rack design.
- Installation by electrical contractors during renovation.
- Measurements and documentation.
- Installation of active equipment and Wi-Fi.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Cat 5e still enough?
- For new installations, we recommend at least Cat 6 as the price difference is minimal.
- Can Wi-Fi replace cables?
- Not entirely — workstations, printers, and access points require a physical cable.
- Who performs the cabling?
- Usually, an electrical contractor installs it according to our plan, and we handle equipment and testing.
#cabling#network rack#office#infrastructure
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