Running Ethernet

Running Ethernet throughout your house.

Tools and Materials

As a bare minimum you'll need the following

• Ethernet Cable. I prefer 1000 ft of Cat6 outdoor rated pure copper cable.
  • Avoid CCA cables; they're less reliable and less resilient to bending.
  • Shielded cables are unnecessary for most installs. You'll only need them if you plan to run them along power lines. They're also more difficult to work with.
  • You may need Cat6e or Cat7 if you have very long runs (e.g. 100 meter runs) or you want 10 gigabit in the future.
  • I've had luck with premiertek_official on eBay.

• RJ45 Plugs. 100 pack
• Basic Cable Tester
• RJ45 Crimping Tool
• Wire Stripper

For a more professional install, get the following:

• Cat7 Ethernet Cable for 10 gigabit or very long gigabit runs.
• Keystones Wall Plates Mounting Brackets
• A drill for outdoor runs and relevant bits. You will need a long drill bit (12 in) to drill through walls. Normal bits are sufficient for drilling through studs.
• Cable clips for ourdoor runs.
  • For people like me without a nail gun.
• Duct Seal for filling holes.

Notes

• There are some cheap kits on amazon which include multiple items (e.g. crimper, wire stripper, tester, plugs). I cannot comment on the quality of them.