How to Run Ethernet Cable in Apartment
Running an Ethernet cable in an apartment can be a headache. This is because many don’t know the proper way to run cables through walls and ceilings. However, it doesn’t have to be difficult if you follow these steps. This blog will help you to know about how to run ethernet cable in apartment. The first thing you need to do is figure out what kind of wall or ceiling you are going through and then proceed from there.
Most commonly, people go through drywall with one layer but sometimes two layers depending on how big the hole needs to be and where the cable will come out of the wall/ceiling. Once that’s determined, use a keyhole saw (for drywall) or a spade bit (for concrete) drill bit, so it’s just large enough for your cable to fit through. Next, use a knife to cut out the drywall on either side of where you just drilled out.
This will be used as your ‘shelf’ so that it can attach to the wall later on. It’s best to staple this shelf in place if possible to create additional sturdiness for when you put cables or other items in there. Afterward, you’re good to go with the cable. The only thing left to do is put in an RJ45 or another type of connector, depending on your preference and needs.
If this seems frustrating, then maybe you should just hire someone to do it for you.
Reasons to Run Ethernet Cable in Apartment
There are several reasons why you might want to run an ethernet cable in the apartment. The most common cause is if you have a smart TV set that does not have wifi capability or it’s simply too far away from your router for proper reception. The only way to get its online capabilities is by ethernet connection. Other reasons include wanting more speed than what your wifi can handle.
8 Ways on How to Run Ethernet Cable in Apartment:
Way 1: Use an Ethernet wall plate.
This is the least expensive way to go, but there are some considerations you should make before choosing this option. For example, if you have a wall with many electrical wires already in it, it can get congested and cause problems for any new cables that need to be put in there. What ends up happening is it will be challenging to get the cable in there if it’s too congested. If you have a wall plate already, this might not be an option for you since they are usually sold separately from the cable itself.
Way 2: Drill Right Through It.
This is by far one of the most common ways to run an ethernet cable in the apartment. You drill a large enough hole on either side of the wall where you want to run your cable through and snap it together like a puzzle piece.
Putting an ethernet cable in the ceiling can be difficult because there’s not always something sturdy underneath the sheetrock (i.e., drywall). However, if you can manage to drill right through the ceiling and snap it together like a puzzle piece, then this is an excellent option for you.
Way 3: Use a Cable Closet.
This is a good way to run ethernet cable in an apartment because everything is contained behind a door, which will give you more room inside the apartment. If you don’t have a cable closet, other options will work for this one. The best way is to use an old closet, take out the shelves, and put in the cable instead. This way, it’s concealed behind doors and can be taken into another room if needed.
Way 4: Drill a Hole in the Basement.
This is another common way on how to run ethernet cable in apartment that allows you to have still it concealed behind drywall or other types of walls. What you do is drill a hole from one side to the other, either vertically or horizontally and snap it together like a puzzle piece.
Way 5: Use a Cable Raceway.
This can be used in any apartment area, not just behind walls or in the ceiling. This is simply a long tube that allows you to run your ethernet cable through it without having to drill anything into your walls or ceilings. The only downside to using this option is that the raceway will be opened if someone removes the cable, and it will no longer keep your cable concealed.
Way 6: Use a Cable Tray.
This is very similar to the cable raceway, except that it’s thicker and has more stability for your ethernet cable to run through. It can be used anywhere in the apartment, but you should still consider that it might be a tripping hazard for people to walk on.
Way 7: Use a Conduit.
This is another option that professional contractors use if your apartment is too complex for the seven other methods listed above. It’s an enclosed space of mostly metal that runs through your apartment. It can be used in any part of the apartment, but you should make sure there aren’t any wires or electrical current running through it first.
Way 8: Hire a Professional Contractor.
If you feel your job is too complex, then hiring a professional contractor is the best way to run an ethernet cable in an apartment. They can come up with creative ways to hide your cables so that they aren’t a problem for you or anyone else living there. Also, they know exactly what to do and how to do it without causing any damage to the apartments themselves.
Tips and Warnings
Tips:
- Make sure you correctly identify your cables before attempting to run them. If you don’t know if it’s an electrical current, then call a professional contractor to do the job for you.
- If you aren’t certain how to do this yourself, then hire a professional first and foremost!
Warnings:
- Make sure your apartment is ventilated adequately for this task. If there isn’t enough ventilation, then the gas from the spray may build up and explode.
- Don’t forget to turn off all electricity before you do this! It’s a very common mistake that can be hazardous if it happens.
- Never use flammable gas inside an apartment without proper ventilation.
- If you are uncertain about how to do this or what to use it for, call a professional first.
- Don’t forget to turn off all electricity before attempting this! Commonly, people forget to shut the power off, and it leads to danger.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an Electrician Run Ethernet?
An electrician is not a person who can run Ethernet cables. However, it is possible for an electrician to install an Ethernet cable or the necessary equipment in your home.
A qualified electrician will be able to assess your wiring and ensure that you have the proper cabling for running Ethernet cabling.
Can I Install Ethernet Myself?
Yes, you can install Ethernet yourself. The Installation Process Is Not Difficult and You Will Be Able to Do It by Following the Steps Below :
- Turn off your computer’s power supply.
- Unplug all of the cables from your computer’s motherboard, if any are present.
- Remove the back panel on your computer case.
- Find an open PCI slot on your motherboard and slide in the card that has a “wireless” sticker on it (usually located next to the RAM slots).
- Connect one end of a network cable (usually with a red plug) to this wireless card, then connect the other end of this cable to an Ethernet port on your router or switch.
How Much Does It Cost to Install an Ethernet Outlet?
There are many ways to install an Ethernet outlet. If you want to purchase one, it will cost around $40. However, if you have your own electrical tools at home and feel confident enough to do the installation yourself, then it will cost only a few dollars.
Conclusion
It can be a daunting task when you’re ready to install an Ethernet cable in your apartment. After all, installing cables means opening up walls and ceilings, which is never fun! But don’t worry- we’re here to help make the process as easy as possible. We’ve put together this guide on how to run ethernet cable in apartment so that you can get started today without any hiccups or snags along the way. Thank you for reading our blog.
Related article: How to run ethernet cable through floor
