How to Run Ethernet Cable Through a House

Running ethernet cable through your house creates a wired network backbone that delivers faster, more reliable internet than Wi-Fi. This process involves routing Cat6 or Cat6a cable from your router to wall outlets throughout your home.

1. Plan your cable routes and measure distances. Map out where you want ethernet outlets and identify the path from your router to each location. Measure the distance for each run, adding 20% extra length for routing around obstacles. Most residential runs stay under 295 feet to maintain gigabit speeds.
2. Purchase Cat6a cable and installation tools. Buy solid copper Cat6a cable in bulk (avoid CCA copper-clad aluminum). Get a cable pulling system, drill bits (3/4-inch spade bit), fish tape or wire pulling system, and RJ45 keystone jacks. Purchase a punch-down tool and cable tester.
3. Cut access holes for cable routing. Drill 3/4-inch holes through wall plates behind your router and at each endpoint location. For multi-story homes, drill holes through floor plates in closets or utility areas. Keep holes 6 inches away from electrical wiring to avoid interference.
4. Run cables through basement or crawl space. Feed ethernet cable through your access holes and route along floor joists in the basement or crawl space. Staple cables to joists every 4 feet using insulated cable staples. Maintain 12 inches separation from electrical wiring where possible.
5. Pull cables up through walls to outlets. Use fish tape or a wire pulling system to guide cables up through wall cavities to outlet locations. Have a helper feed cable from below while you pull from above. Leave 12 inches of extra cable at each outlet for termination.
6. Install wall plates and terminate connections. Cut cables to length and strip the outer jacket back 1 inch. Punch down individual wires into RJ45 keystone jacks following T568B wiring standard. Install keystone jacks into wall plates and secure plates to wall boxes.
7. Test all connections with a cable tester. Connect your cable tester to each ethernet run and verify all 8 wires show continuity and proper pairing. Test data transmission by connecting a laptop to each outlet and running a speed test. Fix any failed connections by re-terminating the keystone jacks.