Running cable is fast and inexpensive while the walls are open, and slow, messy and expensive after drywall. If you’re building or doing a major remodel, a little planning now means fast Wi-Fi in every room and no fishing cable later. Here’s what we recommend thinking about.
1. Ceiling drops for Wi-Fi access points
Plan Ethernet drops in the ceiling where access points will go, instead of relying on one router in a closet. A good starting point is one central location per floor, plus large living areas, far-end bedrooms and a covered patio. We mark exact spots based on your floor plan and construction.
2. Ethernet where speed matters
- Home office desks
- Behind the main TV and any media walls
- Game rooms and consoles
- Anywhere a desktop computer will live
3. Camera locations
Even if you don’t install cameras right away, pre-wire for them: front and back entries, the driveway, the garage and the backyard. PoE cameras get power and data from one cable, so each location only needs a single drop, usually in the soffit.
4. A central network location
Choose one spot where all the cables come together: a closet or utility area with power, ventilation and room for a small rack or panel. This is also where your internet provider’s line should land, so plan a path from where it enters the house.
5. Conduit for the future
A conduit from the network closet to the attic, and from the closet to where the internet line enters, makes future upgrades easy without opening walls.
6. Doorbells, locks and other low-voltage
Video doorbells, smart locks and other connected devices are easier to support when you plan for them. Note where they’ll go so wiring and coverage are ready on move-in day.
Cat6 or Cat6a?
Cat6 is plenty for most homes and supports very fast connections over typical in-home distances. Cat6a costs more and is bulkier, but supports 10-gigabit speeds over longer runs. We’ll recommend what makes sense for your layout and plans.
When to bring us in
Ideally at plan review or before framing is closed, so cable can be roughed in at the right stage and finished when you move in. Learn more about new-home pre-wiring, or if you’re a builder, our builder services.
Planning a project in Austin or Central Texas? Get a quote or call (512) 748-5916.