Ethernet
1st Callcom Ltd covers all types of Ethernet and LAN cabling installation services for home and business use – including Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, and fibre optic. All installations are carried out to relevant ANSI/EIA 568 and ISO/IEC 11801 wiring standards.
Our Ethernet Cabling Solutions
At 1st Call, we offer a complete suite of Ethernet cabling installation services to address all customer LAN, WAN, and IP requirements – from routers, computers, and printers to telephones, CCTV, and Wi-Fi.
We support data transmission speeds ranging from 100 and 1,000 Mbps (1 GbE) to 10 Gbps for distances of up to 100m, carrying out all installations to relevant ANSI/EIA 568 and ISO/IEC 11801 wiring standards.
Whether it’s fitting a single Ethernet cable, fixing existing LAN ports, or network wiring entirely new premises, our experienced team ensures a comprehensive service that is tailored to meet your exact needs.
What Is Ethernet?
An Ethernet cable is used to connect computers and other devices to the internet via a dedicated network. This is known as a Local Area Network (LAN) and enables data to be shared between connected devices.
For a single device, one end of an Ethernet cable is connected to the router and the other to the device. For multiple devices, an Ethernet cable usually connects the router to a network switch, and from there, multiple Ethernet cables are connected to individual devices.
Ethernet cables are made up of 8 twisted copper cables in 4 pairs. This structure prevents noise, signal interference, and crosstalk during transmissions of data. They are available in several categories, ranging from the obsolete Cat1 to the now latest Cat8.
Key Features of Ethernet
Ethernet is a reliable and efficient networking technology for any environment, from small businesses to large data centres. Its primary feature is the Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection (CSMA/CD) protocol, which controls network traffic to reduce data collisions and ensure fast, stable transfer between devices.
It can be used for a variety of purposes, including:
- Connecting devices (e.g., routers, switches, computers, printers)
- File sharing between devices on the same network
- Handling bandwidth-intensive applications (e.g., video conferencing, gaming, backup)
- Connecting devices to network-attached storage (NAS) devices
- Network management & monitoring
- Support protocols such as the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)
Ethernet Cabling Categories
Today, most commercial and industrial premises are using Cat5e and above, as these categories are available with cable shielding. This enhances signal clarity in environments with high levels of electronic device interference, such as data centres and manufacturing plants.
Cat6 is now considered to be the new standard, bringing additional protection and higher data rates than its predecessor. It is also compatible with both Cat5 and Cat5e cabling infrastructure.
When selecting the right Ethernet connection for your premises, it’s important to note that a network is only as fast as its slowest connection. This means that the use of a 100 Mbps Ethernet cable on a 1,000 Mbps internet connection will generate a maximum data rate of 100 Mbps.
| Cable Type | Max Speed | Bandwidth | Max Distance | Environment Used |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CAT8 | 50Gbps | 2000MHz | 30m | Data Centre/Office/Home Network |
| CAT7 | 10Gbps | 600MHz | 100m | Data Centre/Office/Home Network |
| CAT6a | 10Gbps | 500MHz | 100m | Office/Home Network |
| CAT6 | 1Gbps | 250MHz | 100m | Office/Home Network |
| CAT5e | 1Gbps | 100MHz | 100m | Home Network |
Why 1st Call for Ethernet Cabling?
Having worked for many years across a range of diverse environments, 1st Call is ideally positioned to accommodate and serve projects of all sizes and specifications. We offer our customers the most future-proof and price-competitive Ethernet cabling services, delivering bespoke solutions to ensure unparalleled connectivity.
With 1st Call, customers get:
- Ethernet installations for Category 5 & above
- Fibre optic cabling for high-speed performance over long distances
- UK-wide coverage
- Competitive pricing
- Fully qualified engineers
- Support from industry experts
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between WAN & LAN?
A LAN port is used to connect the computers and devices on your premises. A WAN port is used to connect to an external network like the Internet.
Which Ethernet cable is the fastest?
Cat8 is currently the fastest Ethernet cable, with a bandwidth of 2 GHz signals per second – 20 times as many as Cat5. To fully leverage Cat8 speeds, premises must be equipped with compatible equipment that can handle the network.
How long does it take to install Ethernet?
The duration of an Ethernet installation depends on the size of the premises and the state of the existing network. Generally, upgrading your Ethernet cable infrastructure will take anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks.
1st Call has a team of specialists ready to support your telecoms, Wi-Fi, and security needs. Get in touch for your free consultation today!