Does Your Cabling Bottleneck Your Network?

It’s frustrating when your data speed is not what you expected. Especially when you have paid good money to install the system of your dreams. Sometimes the problem lies with a bad installation and can be easily repaired. Usually, it is a bigger issue known as bottlenecking, and can be difficult to diagnose and problematic to fix.

A bottleneck is a mechanical problem in a data system’s design. One install can require hundreds of different components, all engineered to carry data at different speeds and bandwidths. When even one part can’t carry the desired load, the entire system slows.

You’re Only as Fast as Your Slowest Part

When shopping for data cabling and construction supplies, it’s critical to know your desired system performance. If you don’t have a target end-user speed, you can’t build a network that guarantees the performance you want. Every part needs to be rated for the speed and bandwidth your system intends to deliver.

It is estimated that more than half of all business network downtime can be blamed on bad cabling. This means the cable, ports, and outlets you chose from the supplier to build your structured network weren’t up to the task.

Future-Proof with High-Performance Construction Supplies

Building a network using parts designed for today is a sure way to have a dated installation in short time. This is especially true in information technology. Take the time to make sure every component is future proof to avoid costly upgrades in the future. This handy page explains the difference between categories of ethernet cabling to get you started.

As you can see, there is a significant difference between Cat 5A and Cat 6A data cabling. Fiber optic is another class of speed altogether.

Don’t Overbuild Your Systems

Speaking of fiber optics, it’s understandable if you think this lightning-quick new technology is a must-have item. Just make sure you are actually going to get the performance you are planning on. Fiber optic is fast, but it’s also susceptible to interference, or noise. If you don’t also invest in adequate shielding and a suitable network design, you’ll never see the speeds you wanted.

Fortunately, bottlenecking can be avoided by using suppliers with extensive inventories of quality construction supplies. Plan ahead and choose compatible hardware to eliminate bottlenecks. You deserve to see the speed you pay for.