If you’re setting up a new home network, there are a few simple cabling tips you should know so you can be more certain that the cables are connected correctly and in the proper ports.
Tip 1: Connect all your cables while your switch and any other equipment are turned on and while Windows is running. This way you’ll know that Windows can detect your network.
Within a second or two of connecting both ends of a network cable, the corresponding lights on your hardware should light up. Lights should be visible right on the network adapter, whether it’s in the back of your desktop computer or in the side of your laptop. (Note that some devices use multicolor LEDs that appear green if the connection is correct, and red if it’s wrong.)
Flashing lights usually mean data is being transferred. That way, you’ll see the corresponding lights go on, indicating that the switch, router, or NIC has detected the new connection.
Tip 2: Use only category-5 (Cat-5) patch cables, except for a few very specific situations that require category-5 crossover cables (connecting two computers together directly for data transfer).
Use a crossover cable to connect two computers directly (without a hub, switch, or router) or to connect two switches.
In some cases where a DSL/cable modem connects directly to a computer with a patch cable, a crossover cable may be required to connect either of these devices to a hub or switch (consult the documentation to be sure). Either way, if the lights go on, you’re using the right kind of cable.
Ben Carigtan shows you how it’s done.
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