How to Run Ethernet Cable Between Floors without Drilling

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Due to the implementation of wireless technologies, computer users could place PCs throughout the building without using bulky Ethernet cables. However, wired Ethernet cables are required. A professional can run the cable from room to room, but the cost is frequently prohibitive. To save money on a professional installation, use basic equipment and techniques to run Ethernet wires from floor to floor. Let’s learn how to run ethernet cable between floors without drilling.

What is an Ethernet Cable?

Ethernet cables link your modem, router, computer, and other wired-internet-capable devices. We recommend the Cat 5e or Cat 6 Ethernet cables (or higher) for faster transfer speeds.

Ethernet cable, also known as a network cable, enables a computer to connect to a local area network (LAN) and gain internet access.

When you hardwire your home’s Internet connection, the connection’s speed and reliability will improve. If there are no physical obstructions to your Wi-Fi signals, your connection speed should remain unchanged. Typically, you can find this designation and other technical information on the outer sheath of the wire.

How to Run Ethernet Cable Between Floors without Drilling

Administrative Wire

Cable management is the most practical and simple solution.

With a cable management kit, you can run cords and cables without making holes in the wall.

Installing a floor outlet strip.

Boring a hole for an Ethernet cable is a great alternative to placing a power strip on the ground. Connecting a device to the power strip transforms it into a hub.

If no other suitable surface is available, you can place a power strip on the furniture. While you plug the devices in, you must conceal the cables.

Behind the furniture must be concealed all of the cables.

It is possible to conceal the cables by routing them behind the sofa. There are numerous options for accomplishing this, and it is ridiculously simple to implement.

For this purpose, you can utilize the hole in the back of a desk or the ample space provided by many sofas.

Connect the cables to the wall.

You can conceal wires behind the walls of your room. It requires drilling a hole in the room’s ceiling or floor, but no wall holes are necessary. 

Using an above-ground cable eliminates the need to drill holes in the soil, as some service providers do.

How to Run an Ethernet Cable from the Bottom to the Floor

Cat5e cable installation between floors

Consider the scenario where you need to move a wire from the basement to the attic. It would help if you routed them through the wall cavity and down the floor-to-ceiling opening to achieve this. It is necessary to drill simultaneously through the floor and walls.

Choose an outlet location on the wall of each level. Consider the considerations above when deciding on a location.

The second step in preventing accidents is to turn off the power in the area. Using a metal coat hanger, carefully drill a small hole where the outlet is located in the basement wall. You can enlarge the hole to accommodate an outlet box if it is secure.

Third, repeat steps two and two for the outlet wall on the second floor. This plug should be pretty close to the ground. You must drill the cable into the floor within the wall cavity to run from one level to the next.

When drilling into the floor, use a 34-inch drill bit and hold the drill at a 90-degree angle to the floor and subfloor. With a 12- to 16-inch extension on the drill bit, it is simple to penetrate the ceiling later.

After drilling, affix the cable to the fish tape or coat the hanger with tape. The cable can now be fed through the outlet on the upper level, dropped through the ceiling hole, and fed through the outlet on the lower level.

You have now concluded (Step 5). You can now patch any holes you’ve created with the fish tape.

When Ethernet Cables through Floors Is Wise

Typically, a 10-12 mm gap is left at the walls to allow for the expansion and contraction of the floor. This space is suitable for a network cable. Additionally, you can cut the cable slit into the foam layer. How the floor is constructed and installed is a crucial factor.

It is highly unlikely that a flat cable would meet your needs. To begin with, nearly all of them utilize extremely fine wire. So, it would help if you twisted them in each pair and the wires themselves. Even if you twist individual wires in a flat cable, individual pairs remain untwisted. The twisting of the pairs must adhere to the cat7 specification’s stringent guidelines.

This cable may necessitate a short distance or particular devices to function properly. Due to its fragility, the wire can suffer damage and lose its terminal connections. When you repair or replace the ends, standard connectors are ineffective.

Ethernet cables are simple to install within a single story. Accessing wires at each level makes running Ethernet cables between floors challenging.

Pros & Cons of Ethernet Cable Between Floors

Pros

  • Ethernet connections are vastly superior to wireless connections in terms of speed.
  • A wired connection is more secure than an insecure wireless network. With an Ethernet cable, you can restrict access to only those who need it.
  • Ethernet networks are exceptionally dependable. This is because radio waves do not interfere with one another. Over time, ethernet experiences fewer delays and disconnection incidents.
  • Cat6 ethernet cables, for instance, consume considerably less power than older ethernet wiring types. Even less than wireless networks. Consequently, these cables are the most efficient in terms of energy consumption.

Cons

  • Ethernet has increased mobility restrictions. Unlike WiFi networks, an ethernet connection restricts your mobility. There is only one location where the device can rest.
  • Extending an Ethernet network requires both time and resources.
  • When it comes to establishing an Ethernet connection, the majority of individuals require professional assistance. In particular, the areas where they must traverse walls and multiple levels.
  • Unlike a wireless network, a wired connection does not support connecting multiple devices simultaneously.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should you not put wiring under carpets and rugs?

People frequently commit the error of trying to conceal these wires beneath rugs or carpeting.

Overheating can result from stepping them under rugs, especially if your wires inside are frayed. As a result, the cord’s ability to carry current is diminished, causing its temperature to rise.

In this scenario, thick cords may still present a tripping hazard, but the lack of visibility threatens everyone’s safety. When rearranging furniture or dragging an object across them, accidental damage is possible.

Is it safe to run electrical cords under rugs?

To avoid tangling or fraying, you shouldn’t place records under carpets or rugs, across doorways, or near heavy furniture. Therefore, you should never attempt to conceal a cord under a rug. Because the cord’s heat is trapped inside, there is a fire risk.

Can you run Ethernet through vents?

Avoid laziness by routing your Ethernet cable through your home’s ventilation system. Internet service may be interrupted, and potentially hazardous fumes may be released from the cable’s plastic sheathing if you allow hot air from your vents to come into contact with them. 

It is reasonable to question whether an Ethernet cable can be heated when DC voltage is applied along its length. Yes, and it worsens as the conductor’s thickness decreases. Ethernet cable-containing vents are extremely hazardous.

How to run an Ethernet cable between floors?

Drill a destination hole in the ground. Thread through the hole. Thread the wire through the socket’s back, insert the box into the wall, and mount it. Remove the wires, plug them into a wall outlet, or point them at the device.

How can you run wired internet upstairs?

Plug the Power line adapter into a wall outlet near a modem or router and plug one Ethernet cable into it. Then, connect another Power line adapter in any room where you want an Internet connection. Then, use an Ethernet cable to establish a connection between the adapter and the device.

Is Ethernet faster than WIFI?

Ethernet is generally faster than Wi-Fi and has other advantages. A wired Ethernet connection is more secure and stable than a Wi-Fi connection. You can easily test the speed of your computer via a Wi-Fi connection versus an Ethernet connection.

How to run an Ethernet cable through a finished house?

You can use the inside of the cabinet as an opening. Route the cable to the cabinet in line with the wall on the second floor (good) or the cabinet on the second floor (better) and pull it along the wall inside the cabinet. On the inner wall, the door is cut, so you can’t see the wire even if you look in the cabinet.

Is it worth using an Ethernet cable?

Assuming it’s easy enough to connect devices with an Ethernet cable, you’ll end up with a stronger and more cohesive connection. Ultimately, Ethernet offers the benefits of better speed, less latency, and a more reliable connection.

Conclusion

People generally find that Ethernet is more reliable and faster than a Wi-Fi connection, which is why they are always looking for several ways to expand their Ethernet connection. However, the whole procedure can be done by a technician, but why bother with paying the installation fee when you can do it yourself using tools and simple steps?

Bridget Erlikh

Bridget Erlikh is a proficient content writer who stands at the forefront of the ever-evolving world of electronics. With her expert knowledge, she crafts articles that delve into the intricacies of the latest gadgets, explaining their features in an accessible and engaging manner. Bridget's work bridges technology and its users, demystifying complex topics while keeping readers informed about the latest trends and developments. Renowned for her insightful reviews and tech guides, Bridget continues to be a beacon for anyone navigating the dynamic landscape of electronics.

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