Network Build-Outs and Installs

While every home or business has different network requirements and building layouts, the basic building blocks of a network are the same. And while some may choose to just settle for an off the shelf WiFi router and call it good, others want to utilize all the benefits that having their own IT networks provide. And this doesn’t have to be expensive if planned out right.

A lot of what we install, comes standard in newly built homes, and by having your own network installed, you can “future proof” your investment. This will allow you to easily add future upgrades such as multiple AP WiFi coverage, media and file servers, IP TV set top boxes such as Roku, VOIP phones, and much more. Below, we take a look at network components individually, in order to give you a better understanding on how it all works.

The demarcation point is the where the cable company's network stops, and the customers network begins. It is usually located on the side of the structure in a plastic cabinet. It further travels into the home, where a splitter is installed, and it branches out the the internet modem and TVs. Because the splitter degrades the signal, the internet modem should be the first split, followed by any TVs.

During the installation process, we will run the incoming co-axial line directly to the customers MDF, bypassing the splitters and any signal loss. At this point, if you are switching to IP Television, the co-axial cable is not needed any longer. When new buildings are built, CAT6 is run to televisions outlets instead of co-ax.

This is a standardized term in the industry, and is always the main network room. In a large building, this can be an entire room.. but it is usually a closet or large purpose built steel cabinet. Usually, but not always, this is also where the Demarc is located. In a single family home, an MDF will be located in a utility room, basement, or garage and will usually consist of a ½” thick, 4'x4' piece of plywood mounted to the concrete or wooden studs. The network equipment is then openly mounted onto the plywood. If the client requests, a steel cabinet or rack can be mounted instead.

After the plywood or cabinet is setup, the first task in a new installation is to complete any cable runs. Generally CAT6 will be run to all locations where you want a hardwired devices. We recommend hard wiring as many of your devices as you can for speed and security. Drops will be cut into the drywall, or conduit will be run. The cable will then be terminated into an outlet box. Drywall patches may be needed, but we try to avoid this. On the MDF side, cable will be terminated onto a patch panel.

The hardwired CAT6 ports on the patch panel will then be plugged into the network switch. The network switch connects all the network devices so they can communicate with the router. In addition, if it is a POE(power over ethernet) and you have compatible devices, the switch will also serve as a power source. That means you do not need to run a separate supply of power to your network devices, giving one more flexibility on where they may be placed.

In addition the MDF also contains the router, which is the main piece of networking equipment that runs your network. This router connects to the modem, and then to the switch. Most consumer grade routers also serve double duty as firewalls, so you can protect what goes in and out of your network. In conclusion, the MDF contains: patch panel, switch, router, and modem. This is also the location where you would store any servers that you may need.

CAT6 cable has a maximum length of approximately 330 feet. When a proposed project is too large, or has multiple floors or buildings, then IDF(s) will be deployed. Typically an IDF will consist of patch panels and switches, connected to the MDF with fiber. If an IDF is in a remote area, or running cable is too costly, a wireless bridge may be employed instead.

A simple WiFI system usually consists of one main router, and secondary routers that are running in Access Point(AP) mode. This mode allows the main router to manage connections, while the other routers serve as coverage extenders. This setup allows for multiple APs to be placed over the clients property to ensure optimal WiFi coverage.

A virtual private network is an encrypted tunnel that connects two separate networks through the internet. This can be utilized to permanently connect two remote sites, for allowing remote clients to access your internal network remotely, and much more. A VPN uses encryption technology in order to protect data while it is being transmitted. While an optional feature, with remote work, it is becoming more common in many networks.

We have now gone over the main features of any IT network. This should help in your understanding of the work we perform and why. By adding your own data network to your building, you are giving yourself the ability to finely tune your home or business, as well as future proofing, making any additional upgrades that much easier. In practical terms, that means more of a choice in services, allowing you to save money!

Contact us today to discuss your IT project with an experienced technician.

• Bid per project. Site survey required.