Download Your Free Cabling PDF: Essential Network Wiring Guide

So, you're looking to get your network wiring sorted out, huh? It's one of those things that seems simple until you're actually doing it. We've put together a guide, kind of like a downloadable cabling pdf, to help you figure out what you need. Think of it as a cheat sheet for making sure your internet doesn't decide to take a nap when you need it most. We'll cover the basics, the different types of cables, and how to actually put them together without causing a mess. Let's get this done.

Key Takeaways

• Your network cables are a long-term investment, so plan for the future, not just today. Think about things like Cat6A and Wi-Fi 7 needs.

• A lot of network problems actually come from the physical cables. Bad or old wiring can slow everything down, no matter how fast your internet is.

• Before you buy anything, check your current setup and figure out what kind of speeds you'll need over the next decade. Video calls and cloud stuff use a lot of bandwidth.

• Make sure your cables can handle Power over Ethernet (PoE) if you plan on using it. Newer devices need more power.

• Don't forget to test your cables after you install them. It's the best way to catch problems early and make sure everything works right.

Understanding Your Network Cabling Needs

So, you're thinking about getting your network wired up, or maybe upgrading what you've got. It's easy to just grab some cables and plug things in, but honestly, that's not really the best way to go about it. The way your network is physically set up, the cables and how they're installed, has a pretty big effect on how well everything runs. It's like the foundation of a house – if it's not solid, the whole thing can have problems down the line.

Why Proper Network Cable Wiring is Crucial

Think of your network cables as the highways for all your data. If those highways are full of potholes, have too few lanes, or are just poorly laid out, everything slows down. This means your internet might feel sluggish, files take ages to transfer, and video calls could be a mess. Getting the wiring right from the start is way easier and cheaper than fixing it later. It's not just about connecting devices; it's about making sure they can talk to each other quickly and reliably. This is super important if your business relies on things like point-of-sale systems, cloud services, or even just keeping your team productive. A solid cabling system is the backbone for all that.

Assessing Bandwidth Demands for Today and Tomorrow

When you're planning your network, you've got to think about how much data is going to be zipping around. Right now, you might be fine with what you have, but what about in a year or two? Things like streaming high-definition video, using cloud-based applications, and even just the sheer number of devices people connect can really ramp up the data traffic. You don't want to install a system today that's already struggling by next year. It's worth looking at what kind of speeds your current applications use and what new tools you might adopt. For example, if you're thinking about upgrading to Wi-Fi 7, you'll need cabling that can keep up. It’s a good idea to plan for growth, maybe by looking into Cat6A standards which are built for higher speeds and future needs.

Here’s a quick look at what drives bandwidth needs:

• Video Conferencing: High-definition calls need a steady, fast connection.

• Cloud Services: Accessing data and applications in the cloud requires quick uploads and downloads.

• File Sharing: Large files move much faster on a well-wired network.

• IoT Devices: More smart devices mean more data traffic.

The Impact of Cabling on Network Performance

It’s easy to blame your internet provider or your Wi-Fi when things are slow, but often, the problem is closer to home – it’s the cables. Old, damaged, or poorly installed cables can create bottlenecks that slow everything down. Even if you have the fastest internet connection available, if your internal wiring can't handle the speed, you won't see those benefits. Think about it: if you have a super-fast highway leading to a narrow, bumpy road, traffic is going to get jammed up. That's what bad cabling does to your network data. It can lead to dropped connections, slow loading times, and general frustration for everyone using the network. Getting the right type of cable and having it installed correctly makes a huge difference in how smoothly your network operates day-to-day.

Exploring Different Network Cable Types

When you're setting up or upgrading a network, picking the right cable is a big deal. It's not just about getting data from point A to point B; it's about how fast and reliably that data travels. Think of it like choosing the right road for your car – a bumpy dirt track won't get you where you need to go as quickly or smoothly as a paved highway.

Coaxial Cables: A Look at Older Infrastructure

Coaxial cables are the old-school champions of wired networking. You probably remember them from your TV antenna or early internet setups. They have a central wire surrounded by insulation, then a metal shield, and finally an outer jacket. This design makes them pretty good at fighting off interference. However, they're bulky and don't handle the super-high speeds we expect today. While you might still find them in some older buildings or for specific applications like cable TV, they're mostly a relic for modern computer networks.

Fiber Optic Cables: High-Speed Data Transmission

Now, fiber optic cables are the speed demons. Instead of sending electrical signals like copper wires, they use pulses of light. This means they can transmit massive amounts of data over long distances without losing signal quality and are completely immune to electrical interference. They come in two main flavors: multi-mode, good for shorter runs within a building, and single-mode, which can go for miles. The downside? They're more expensive and require specialized tools and knowledge to install and terminate.

Understanding Ethernet Cable Categories (CAT5e to CAT8)

When most people talk about network cables today, they're usually referring to Ethernet cables, specifically the twisted-pair kind. These are categorized by 'Cat' numbers, and each category offers better performance than the last. Here's a quick rundown:

• CAT5e: This was the standard for a long time, supporting speeds up to 1 Gigabit per second (Gbps). It's still fine for basic home use but might struggle with heavy network traffic.

• CAT6: A step up, CAT6 offers better performance and can handle 10 Gbps, but only over shorter distances (around 55 meters). It's a good choice for many small to medium businesses.

• CAT6a: This is the 'augmented' version of CAT6. It also supports 10 Gbps but can do so over the full 100-meter distance. It has better shielding, making it more robust against interference.

• CAT7: These cables are heavily shielded and designed for high-interference environments, supporting 10 Gbps over 100 meters. They use a different connector type (GG45) in addition to RJ45, which can be a bit confusing.

• CAT8: The current top-tier option, CAT8 is built for data centers and super-fast applications, capable of speeds up to 40 Gbps over shorter distances (up to 30 meters). It's also shielded.

The Structure of Ethernet Cables

Ever wonder what makes those Ethernet cables actually work? It’s not just a bunch of wires thrown together. There's some clever design going on inside that plastic jacket. The way these cables are built is key to how fast and reliably your data travels.

Twisted Pair Design for Reduced Interference

The most common Ethernet cables, the ones you probably see everywhere, are called Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) or Shielded Twisted Pair (STP). The "twisted pair" part is super important. Inside, you've got four pairs of wires, and each pair is twisted together. Why twist them? It’s a neat trick to cancel out electromagnetic interference (EMI) and crosstalk. Think of it like noise-canceling headphones for your data. When electrical signals from other devices try to mess with your cable, the twisting helps to neutralize that interference. The tighter the twist, the better it works.

Shielding and Additional Protective Layers

Now, not all Ethernet cables are created equal. While UTP relies solely on the twisting, Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) cables add an extra layer of defense. This can come in the form of a foil wrap around each pair of wires, or even a braided metal shield around all four pairs, or both! This extra shielding is a big deal if you're putting your cables near noisy electrical equipment, like in a factory or a server room packed with power supplies. It’s like putting your data in a little Faraday cage. However, this extra protection makes STP cables a bit more expensive and harder to work with when you're terminating them.

The Role of the Rip Cord and Drain Wire

When you get down to the nitty-gritty, you'll find a couple of other useful bits inside. Most cables have a "rip cord," a strong, thin string running along the length. This makes it way easier to strip off the outer jacket without nicking the wires inside. For shielded cables, there's also often a "drain wire." This little guy is usually uninsulated and runs alongside the shielding. Its job is to connect to the shielding at the termination point, helping to ground the cable and carry away any stray electrical noise. It’s a small detail, but it helps maintain the integrity of the signal, especially in those high-interference environments.

Essential Tools for Network Cable Wiring

So, you're ready to get your hands dirty and wire up some network cables? Awesome! But before you start, let's talk about the gear you'll need. Trying to do this without the right tools is like trying to build IKEA furniture without the Allen wrench – frustrating and likely to end badly.

Cutting and Stripping Your Network Cables

First things first, you need to prep your cable. This means cutting it to the right length and then carefully removing the outer jacket without nicking the wires inside. For this, a good pair of wire cutters is a must. They make a clean cut, which is way better than using scissors or a knife, which can leave a messy end. After cutting, you'll need a cable stripper. These are designed to take off just the outer layer of the cable, exposing the inner wires. Get one that's adjustable or designed for the type of cable you're using, so you don't accidentally damage those delicate pairs.

Crimpers and RJ45 Plugs for Secure Connections

Once your cable is prepped, it's time to put on the connectors. For Ethernet cables, this usually means RJ45 plugs. You can't just push these on; you need a crimping tool. This tool presses the metal pins in the RJ45 plug down into the wires, making a solid connection. It's pretty satisfying when you get it right. Make sure you have the correct plugs for your cable type – solid core and stranded core cables sometimes need different plug designs. Getting the right Ethernet cable wiring diagrams for Cat 6 can help you visualize this part.

The Utility of a Punch Down Tool

While crimping RJ45 plugs is common for patch cables, you'll often encounter keystone jacks and patch panels where you need to 'punch down' the wires. This is where a punch down tool comes in. It seats the wires into the terminals on the jack or panel, often cutting off the excess wire at the same time. It's a cleaner and more secure method for permanent installations. Some punch down tools have a 45-degree angle, which is handy for getting into tight spots.

Here's a quick rundown of the must-have tools:

• Wire Cutters: For clean cable cuts.

• Cable Stripper: To remove the outer jacket without damaging inner wires.

• Crimping Tool: For attaching RJ45 plugs to the cable ends.

• Punch Down Tool: For terminating wires into jacks and patch panels.

• Cable Tester: (Highly recommended!) To verify your connections are good.

Step-by-Step Guide to Wiring Network Cables

Alright, let's get down to actually making your own network cables. It might seem a bit fiddly at first, but once you get the hang of it, it's pretty straightforward. The key is to be methodical and pay attention to the wire order.

Measuring, Cutting, and Stripping the Cable

First things first, figure out how long you need your cable to be. It's always better to cut a little extra than not enough, trust me. Once you've got your length, grab your wire cutters and snip it clean. Then, take your cable stripper and carefully remove about two inches of the outer jacket. You want to expose the inner wires, but be super careful not to nick them. Those little guys are delicate!

Arranging Wires According to T568A or T568B Standards

Now for the colorful part. You'll see four pairs of wires, each twisted together. Gently untwist them. You'll need to arrange these eight wires in a specific order. The two most common standards are T568A and T568B. For most home and office setups, T568B is the one you'll want to use. It's a good idea to lay them out flat and in order before you even think about putting them in the connector. Don't untwist them any more than you absolutely have to, though. Too much untwisting can mess with the signal.

Here's the T568B color order, from left to right:

• Orange/White

• Orange

• Green/White

• Blue

• Blue/White

• Green

• Brown/White

• Brown

Inserting Wires into the RJ45 Plug and Crimping

With your wires lined up perfectly, it's time to get them into the RJ45 plug. This is where patience really pays off. Carefully slide each wire into its designated channel in the plug. Make sure they go all the way to the end. You want to see the copper ends peeking out just a tiny bit at the very front. Also, make sure the outer cable jacket gets tucked into the plug a bit; the crimping action will secure it. Now, take your crimping tool, pop the plug in, and give it a firm squeeze. This pushes the little metal pins down, piercing the wire insulation to make contact, and it also secures the cable jacket.

Verifying Connections with a Cable Tester

So, you've crimped both ends. Awesome! But are they actually working? This is where a cable tester comes in handy. You just plug each end into the tester, and it'll light up to show you if all the connections are good and in the right order. If something's off, you'll have to snip off the plug and do it again. It's a bit of a pain, but way better than finding out later when your network is acting up.

Best Practices for Network Cable Installation

Alright, so you've got your cables, your tools, and you're ready to wire things up. But hold on a sec, just slapping cables everywhere isn't going to cut it. There's a right way to do this if you want your network to actually work well and not be a constant headache. Think of it like building a house – you wouldn't just start nailing boards together randomly, right? Same idea here.

Planning Your Network Cable Layout Effectively

Before you even unspool a single cable, you need a plan. Seriously, sketch it out. Where are your network closets? Where do the devices need to connect? Measure twice, cut once, as they say. You've got a maximum of 100 meters (about 328 feet) for a single Ethernet run before you start losing signal quality. So, figure out your longest runs and make sure they're within that limit. Also, try to keep your network cables away from power lines. Electrical noise can really mess with your data. If you absolutely have to cross power cables, do it at a 90-degree angle. It's a small thing, but it helps.

Maintaining Proper Bend Radius and Service Loops

This is a big one that people often mess up. Cables have a limit on how sharply you can bend them. For most common cables like Cat6, you don't want to bend them tighter than about 1.5 inches. If you kink or sharply bend a cable, you can damage the internal wires, leading to all sorts of connection problems. It's like giving your network a permanent headache. Also, leave some extra cable, called a "service loop," at both ends – where it connects to the patch panel and where it comes out at the wall jack. A foot or two is usually plenty. This extra slack makes future repairs or upgrades way easier without having to run a whole new cable.

Securing Cables with Appropriate Management Tools

Don't just let your cables hang loose or bundle them up with anything you can find. Using zip ties is a big no-no. They can cinch down too tight and crush the delicate wires inside, causing signal issues. Instead, use Velcro straps or specialized cable management clips. These let you secure cables without damaging them. Also, make sure your cables are supported. Use J-hooks or cable trays every few feet, especially in ceilings or along walls. Never let them just sit on ceiling tiles – it's bad for the cable and often against building codes.

The Importance of Clear Cable Labeling

This might seem like a small detail, but trust me, you'll thank yourself later. Label every single cable at both ends. What should the label say? At a minimum, note where it starts (e.g., "Server Room Rack 1, Port 12") and where it ends (e.g., "Office 305, Wall Jack A"). You might also want to add the cable type (like "Cat6A") and the date it was installed. This makes troubleshooting a breeze. When a user calls saying their internet is down, you can quickly trace the cable and figure out if it's a bad connection, a faulty port, or something else entirely. It saves a ton of time and frustration.

Ensuring Optimal Performance Through Testing

So, you've gone through the whole process of planning, running, and terminating your network cables. That's a big accomplishment! But honestly, the job isn't quite done yet. You really need to check your work. Think of it like baking a cake – you can follow the recipe perfectly, but you won't know if it's actually good until you taste it. With network cables, testing is your tasting spoon.

Using Cable Testers to Verify Connectivity

This is where a good cable tester comes in. It's not just a fancy gadget; it's your best friend for making sure everything is hooked up right. You plug one end into your newly made cable, and the other end into the remote unit, and the tester basically checks if all the wires are connected in the correct order. It's like a quick continuity check for each individual wire. A simple wire map test is the bare minimum you should do for every cable. If the tester shows a mismatch, or if a wire isn't showing up, you know you've got a problem to fix before it causes headaches later.

Identifying and Troubleshooting Common Wiring Faults

What kind of problems can pop up? Well, a few common ones come to mind. You might have a wire that's just not connected at either end – that's a break. Or maybe you mixed up two wires, like putting pin 3 where pin 4 should be. This is called a crossed pair, and it can really mess with your network speeds. Sometimes, you might even get a short, where two wires accidentally touch. A decent cable tester will usually flag these issues. For example, it might show:

• Open: A wire isn't connected at one or both ends.

• Short: Two or more wires are touching each other.

• Miswire: Wires are connected to the wrong pins.

• Split Pair: Pairs of wires that should be together are separated.

If a cable fails, don't panic. Usually, it's just a bad crimp or a wire that slipped out. You might need to cut off the RJ45 connector and try again. It's a bit tedious, but way better than dealing with a slow or dead network connection.

The Significance of Testing for Network Reliability

Look, nobody wants a network that's always dropping or running at a snail's pace. The physical layer – your cables – is the foundation. If that foundation is shaky, the whole network suffers. Testing confirms that your cables meet industry standards, like those for Cat6A, which is important if you're thinking about things like Wi-Fi 7 or Power over Ethernet (PoE). A certified cable installation provides documentation that can be really helpful down the line, especially if you ever need to make a warranty claim or troubleshoot a complex issue. It's about building a network that you can actually depend on, not just for today, but for years to come. Investing a little time in testing now saves a lot of headaches later. You can find some great network cable certification testers that make this process much easier.

Future-Proofing Your Network Infrastructure

So, you've got your network all wired up, looking neat and tidy. But what about tomorrow? Thinking ahead with your cabling is like building a house with a solid foundation – it saves you a massive headache down the line. We're talking about making sure your network can handle whatever comes next, not just what's current.

Considering Cat6A Standards and Wi-Fi 7 Requirements

Right now, Cat6A is the go-to for new installations if you want to be ready for the next decade. It supports 10 Gigabit Ethernet speeds over longer distances, which is pretty important. And Wi-Fi 7? It's rolling out, and while it sounds fast, for businesses, it's more about reducing delays and connecting more devices smoothly. Your cables need to keep up. If you're still on older stuff like Cat5e, you're probably already hitting a wall, especially with things like 4K video calls or big cloud file transfers.

• Cat6A: Supports 10Gbps up to 100 meters. It's shielded, which helps a lot with interference.

• Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be): Focuses on lower latency and handling more devices simultaneously.

• Bandwidth Needs: Think about video conferencing, cloud AI tools, and real-time backups. These all need consistent, fast connections.

Planning for Power over Ethernet (PoE) Budgets

Power over Ethernet is a game-changer, letting you power devices like cameras, access points, and phones right through the network cable. But it uses power, and that generates heat. You need to plan your "PoE budget" – how much power your switches can deliver and how much your devices will draw. If you're planning for a lot of high-power devices, especially with newer Wi-Fi 7 access points that might need PoE++ (up to 60W or more), you need to make sure your switches and cables can handle it without overheating. Poorly managed PoE can lead to equipment failure or even cable damage over time. Proper cooling in your network closets becomes a big deal when you're pushing a lot of watts.

Making Your Cabling an Asset for the Next Decade

Your network cabling is a long-term investment, often lasting 10 years or more. It's the backbone. When planning, think about where your business will be in 5, 7, or 10 years. Will you add more staff? More devices? Maybe some smart building tech? Running conduit for future upgrades, using modular patch panels, and keeping good documentation are smart moves. Also, remember the National Electric Code (NEC) requires removing abandoned cables during renovations – they can be a fire hazard and take up space. Keeping your cabling documented and tested, maybe with a certification report showing wire maps and signal loss, means you know exactly what you have and can troubleshoot problems faster. It turns your cabling from a potential bottleneck into a reliable asset.

Avoiding Common Network Cabling Pitfalls

So, you're setting up your network cables, and everything seems to be going smoothly. But hold on a second, there are a few common mistakes people make that can really mess things up down the line. It's not just about getting the wires connected; it's about doing it right so your network actually works well.

Separation Guidelines from Electrical Lines

One of the biggest headaches you can create for yourself is running your network cables too close to electrical wires. Think of it like trying to have a quiet conversation next to a loud construction site – it's just not going to work. Electrical lines put out electromagnetic interference (EMI), and this noise can get into your data cables, messing with your signal. This means slower speeds, dropped connections, and a generally frustrating experience. The general rule of thumb is to keep your network cables at least 12 inches away from electrical wiring. If you absolutely have to cross power lines, try to do it at a 90-degree angle. This minimizes the amount of time the cables are running parallel and reduces the chance of interference.

The Dangers of Sharp Bends and Kinks

When you're pulling cables through walls or around corners, it's tempting to just bend them however you need to get them into place. But these cables are more delicate than they look. Bending a network cable too sharply, or creating a kink, can actually damage the internal wire pairs. This damage can lead to signal loss, errors, and a cable that just doesn't perform as it should. For most Ethernet cables, you want to avoid bending them tighter than about four times the cable's diameter. For something like Cat6A, that's roughly a 1.5-inch radius. It might mean planning your route a little more carefully, but it's way better than having to pull a new cable later because you kinked the old one.

Why Zip Ties Are Detrimental to Network Cables

This one surprises a lot of people. You see cables bundled neatly with zip ties everywhere, right? Well, for network cables, it's a bad idea. Zip ties can be really tight, and they can put uneven pressure on the cable. This pressure can crush the delicate wire pairs inside, leading to performance issues. Instead of zip ties, it's much better to use Velcro straps or specialized cable management clips. These allow you to secure cables without squeezing them. Leaving a little extra cable, called a service loop, at both ends is also smart. This gives you some wiggle room for future changes or repairs without stressing the connection. You can find good advice on structured cabling standards and installation techniques to help you avoid these common issues and build a solid network foundation. structured cabling standards

Choosing the Right Network Cabling Suppliers

So, you've figured out what kind of cables you need and how to wire them up. Awesome! But who do you actually buy all this stuff from? Picking the right supplier isn't just about getting the cheapest price; it's about getting reliable gear that won't give you headaches down the road. Think of it like building a house – you wouldn't buy your lumber from just anyone, right?

Evaluating Equipment Suppliers for Quality

When you're looking at suppliers, don't just glance at the product list. Dig a little deeper. What's their reputation? Do they have good reviews from other businesses, especially ones similar to yours? Look for suppliers who can tell you about the specs of their cables – things like the gauge of the copper, the quality of the shielding, and if they meet industry standards like TIA/EIA. A good supplier will be transparent about their product's build and performance. It's also worth checking if they offer warranties on their cables and connectors. A longer warranty usually means they stand by their product.

Understanding the Importance of a Structured Cabling Audit

Before you even start looking for suppliers, it's a smart move to get a handle on what you actually have and what you need. This is where a structured cabling audit comes in. It's basically a professional check-up of your current network wiring. They'll look at:

• The types of cables currently installed.

• The condition and age of the existing infrastructure.

• Any bottlenecks or performance issues.

• Your future needs, like increased bandwidth or new technologies.

This audit helps you avoid buying more than you need or, worse, buying the wrong stuff. It gives you a clear picture, so you can go to suppliers with a specific shopping list. If you're unsure about this, you can find resources that help you understand residential Ethernet installation needs, which can be a starting point.

Partnering for Expert Network Cabling Solutions

Sometimes, you just need a bit of help. Instead of just buying cables and hoping for the best, consider working with a company that specializes in network cabling solutions. These folks can help you design your entire system, recommend the right products, and even handle the installation. They often have relationships with top-tier manufacturers, which can mean better pricing and access to higher-quality gear. They can also advise on things like planning for Power over Ethernet (PoE) budgets, which is becoming more common. It's about building a relationship with a partner who understands your network's needs now and for the future.

Picking the right company for your network cables is super important. You want someone reliable who knows their stuff. Think about what you need and what they offer. A good supplier makes sure your internet and network run smoothly, like a well-oiled machine. Don't just pick the first one you see! Do a little digging to find the best fit for your business. Ready to find out more about making the best choice? Visit our website today for expert advice and solutions!

Wrapping Things Up

So, we've gone over a bunch of stuff about network cables, from what they are and how they're made to actually putting them together. Hopefully, you feel a bit more ready to tackle your own wiring projects now. Remember, getting it right the first time really makes a difference in how well your network works. A poorly done job can cause all sorts of headaches down the road, like slow speeds or dropped connections. If you're feeling overwhelmed or just want to make sure it's done perfectly, there are pros out there who can help. They've got the experience to set up a network that's solid now and ready for whatever comes next.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it important to have good network cables?

Think of network cables as the roads for your data. If the roads are bumpy or too small, cars (your data) get stuck or slow. Good cables mean your computers and devices can talk to each other quickly and without problems, making everything work smoothly.

What's the difference between different cable types like Cat5e and Cat6?

These are like different speed limits for your data roads. Cat5e is an older, slower type, good for basic internet. Cat6 is faster and better for things like online gaming or video calls. Newer types like Cat6a and Cat8 are even faster, used for big businesses or special setups.

How do I know which cable type to choose?

It depends on what you need! For a basic home internet setup, Cat5e or Cat6 might be fine. If you plan to do a lot of streaming, online gaming, or have many devices, going for Cat6 or Cat6a is a smarter choice for better speed and less waiting.

What does 'twisted pair' mean in Ethernet cables?

Inside an Ethernet cable, the wires are twisted together in pairs. This twisting helps cancel out "noise" or interference from other electronic devices, kind of like how turning your head can help you hear better. It keeps your data signal clear.

What tools do I need to make my own network cables?

You'll need a few basic tools: wire cutters to snip the cable, a cable stripper to peel off the outer plastic, special plugs called RJ45 connectors, and a crimping tool to attach the plugs securely. A cable tester is also super helpful to make sure it works!

What are the T568A and T568B standards?

These are like color-coded maps that tell you exactly which wire goes where inside the connector. Both work, but you have to pick one and use it the same way on both ends of the cable. T568B is used more often these days.

How long can a network cable be?

For most Ethernet cables, the maximum length is about 100 meters (or 328 feet). If you need to go further, you might need special equipment or a different type of setup, because the signal can get weak over longer distances.

Why shouldn't I bend network cables too sharply?

Bending a cable too much, especially with a sharp crease, can damage the tiny wires inside. This can cause your internet to be slow or stop working altogether. It's best to give them gentle curves, like a smooth road, not a sharp turn.