Network topologies are imperative to your network’s efficiency and reliability. There are several popular topologies, all of which have their own unique advantages. Among the most popular setups is the ring topology. In addition to the advantages of a ring topology, it’s also one of the simplest designs. If you’d like to learn more, we’ve got covered in our guide below.

You Reduce Data Collisions

In ring topologies, data typically runs unidirectionally. The benefit of having all your data move in one direction is that there’s a much smaller chance you’ll experience data collisions. Other topologies where data moves bidirectionally can experience what’s called packet collisions. When a packet collision occurs, you often lose some (if not all) of the data in that packet—so you obviously want to minimize that risk.

Token Passing

One of the unique benefits of ring topologies is their ability to utilize token passing. In simple terms, token passing is where a signal passes through each node to allow that node to communicate with the network. Token passing is especially helpful when you need to share information with other workstations on the network, as it’s much more efficient.

Easy To Maintain or Add Workstations

Unlike other complex topologies like the mesh topology, ring topologies are simple—why is that important? It makes maintenance much easier. If something is wrong within your network, you can easily identify where the problem is because there’s minimal hardware involved. Companies specifically benefit from ring topologies because it’s easy to add workstations. In other words, ring topologies support unlimited growth.

As we mentioned, there are many different topologies. Though we can’t deny the advantages of a ring topology, it may not be the best option for some. Most small- to medium-sized businesses can benefit from a ring topology, but massive corporations may need more hardware like switches and a central hub to meet their needs. If you don’t know which topology you should choose, ask a professional.

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If you’re in the market for a new Ethernet cable, you’ve probably come across two types of cables: copper and fiber optic. Both cable options are great, but what are the differences and benefits of each? Our experts break down the differences between fiber optic and copper Ethernet cables below; read on if you’d like to learn more.

Copper Ethernet Cables

When most people think of an Ethernet cable, they probably imagine a copper cable, and that’s because they’ve been around the longest. In fact, Xerox developed the first copper Ethernet cable in the 1970s and there have been several variations of copper cables since. A copper Ethernet cable works by sending electrical currents up and down the copper wire from one device to another. Today, the most common copper cables are Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6a.

Cat5e cables are arguably the most universal cable that will work with most network setups. Additionally, a Cat5e cable can supply up to 1Gb/second speeds at 100MHz. Alternatively, you could choose a Cat6 or Cat6a copper cable if you need faster speeds and you have the hardware to support it. In general, in scenarios such as surfing the web or gaming, a Cat5e or Cat6 cable will probably be sufficient. That said, sometimes you need extremely fast speeds.

Fiber Optic Ethernet Cables

A more modern take on the Ethernet cable is fiber optic. Instead of depending on electrical currents, fiber optic cables send signals using beams of light, which is much faster. In fact, fiber optic cables can support modern 10Gbps networks with ease, making them much faster than copper cables. Additionally, because fiber optic cables don’t depend on electricity, they’re less susceptible to interference from other devices. Moreover, fiber optic cables are more secure than copper cables because light signals are more difficult to hack.

Now that you know the differences between fiber optic and copper Ethernet cables, you can decide which cable best fits your needs. In general, if you have the fastest speeds available and have the appropriate hardware that supports such speeds, fiber optic is the way to go. That said, if you merely need to connect your gaming console or a computer to a router for basic internet use, a copper cable is sufficient.

If you’re looking for top-quality Ethernet cables, look no further than CableWholesale. Whether you need a 1 ft., 10 ft., or 150 ft. Ethernet cable, we’ve got you covered. Check out our inventory today or contact our top-notch customer service team if you need help choosing a cable.

While homes and small businesses can get by with a router and some Ethernet cables for their internet connection, office buildings, academic institutions, and medical facilities are a different story. Structured cabling systems are among the most reliable ways to connect various devices throughout a LAN with the aid of several subsystems and protocols. It’s important that you allow yourself time to plan and develop a good structured cabling system. If you’re searching for information regarding the qualities of a good structured cabling system, we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn more.

Meets International Standards

Between the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) are several guidelines that keep structured cabling systems consistent throughout industries. Your facility should meet standards, as it helps installers and future servicers to provide adequate support. The standards provide direction to ensure you have sufficient power and hardware, though you should note that the standards vary depending on the type of building.

Limits Interference and Crosstalk

Nearly any network is susceptible to radio frequency and electromagnetic interference, though using high-quality cabling in your structured cabling system can reduce or eliminate interference. In addition to interference, failure to use structured cabling can result in crosstalk between cables. If you’re experiencing interference or crosstalk, it’s possible that you’re either using low-quality cables or neglecting standards.

Documentation That Supports Expansion

There are many benefits of structured cabling and one of them is its organization and flexibility for expansion. That said, one of the qualities of a good structured cabling system is in-depth documentation. If you can’t clearly identify which cable connects to what switch, device, or floor, you’re going to have a hard time expanding in the future. Another reason it’s important to document your structured cabling system is that it’ll help installers and IT workers expand your system in the future.

Whether you’re a business owner or you manage several medical facilities, you need to install structured cabling systems. Now that you’ve made it this far, you’re on your way to a successful connectivity infrastructure because you know what makes a great setup.

High-quality Ethernet cables can make or break the reliability and longevity of your structured cabling system. Whether you need 100, 150, 200, or even 1000 ft. Ethernet cables, CableWholesale is the place for you. We take immense pride in offering top-quality customer service and products that are backed with a lifetime warranty. Check out our inventory on our online shop today!

Whether your company is working in the office or you’ve been working remotely for months, it’s crucial to have quality network cabling throughout your building for two reasons. First, businesses usually have a structured cabling setup that supports both onsite and remote workers. Second, we won’t work from home forever; although COVID-19 has made it feel like we’ll never return to the office, we will. That said, you need your network to work for you—not against you, and a big part of that is the cabling. If you don’t know if your building has the appropriate network cables or not, we’ve got you covered. Below we break down some common signs it's time to change your network cabling system.

Mediocre Performance

When you pay for internet service, the provider should share the details of the plan you pay for. Included in your internet plan details will be the download speed you’re paying for and the minimum download speed. If your internet and network are sluggish at best, there are two possible reasons. First, you might not have the appropriate internet plan for the number of users and devices. Alternatively, your cable infrastructure doesn’t support your download speeds.

Frequent Downtime

Some organizations experience network downtime rather frequently, which isn’t normal. Of course, there are dozens of reasons you might experience a network outage, ranging from the weather to a server issue to someone accidentally unplugging a cable. Another potential cause for network downtime is insufficient cables. Network cables have changed tremendously over the years, and if you’re still using cables from ages ago, they might not have the capacity your internet requires. Your company can’t afford downtime, and putting rush orders on new cables or maintenance gets expensive. Install high-quality cables carefully or hire an IT professional to do it for you to ensure it’s done correctly.

You Have Damaged Cables

There are a shocking number of companies that not only use outdated cables, but also use cables that are worn, frayed, or even taped together. There’s never an excuse to use cables that are clearly damaged and expect a perfect connection in return—it’s not going to happen. While we’d argue that all network cables should be high quality, the cables in a business must be. Businesses regularly use network cables, and the cables endure a lot of wear and tear over the years. It’s crucial that your cables will last so you can expect reliable connections and prevent downtime.

There are numerous signs it's time to change your network cabling system, but the three we mentioned are the most common signs. When you purchase replacement network cables, ensure you’re doing business with a dependable supplier so you can be confident you’ll receive top-quality products.

The team at CableWholesale knows how important networks are for businesses and households—that’s why we take quality seriously. Whether you need an HDMI cable, a 10 ft. Cat5e cable, or Cat6 plenum cable in bulk, we’ve got you covered. Check out our inventory today and don’t hesitate to contact us for free technical assistance.