Whole House Fiber network solution
Whole House Fiber network solution
Hey there, I see you're setting up a fiber internet connection for your home. You want to know how to link everything together like your old setup with the access point and switch. Since you're new, it's good to understand the basics of connecting fiber-based devices. You can use a router or switch that supports fiber connections to replicate that layout. Just make sure the cables match the specifications for fiber-to-fiber or fiber-to-router connections. If you need help choosing the right equipment, let me know!
it's not necessary to install fiber in your home. you'll likely need only a fiber-to-copper adapter between the fiber and the devices you use. plus, the fiber cables and network equipment are quite costly. for a setup that stays relevant in the long term, use CAT6A cables with solid shielding and high-quality RJ45 connectors.
We definitely discussed GLAS Fiber Cables. If yes, it really depends! In a solid brick building typical in Europe, cables are usually installed inside the walls. For a cardboard house where removal is simple, an ORDINATOR double shielded CAT 8 cable works well.
Look for a switch featuring 10Gbps fiber connections. They are available but quite costly, often costing several thousand dollars. Many models offer only a limited number of fiber ports. The goal is to connect only the necessary devices—such as servers or network switches—that require fiber. I’ll start by checking eBay. You might discover affordable options with fiber support there. 10 Gbps Ethernet equipment remains relatively pricey, though you could consider using Cat6a cabling instead. That would simplify things. Remember that most devices aren’t designed for direct fiber use, and not all have Gigabit Ethernet or 10 Gbps capabilities.
Please keep the fiber as it is and proceed with Ethernet. A higher grade like Cat 7 is available if needed.
Cat6a offers solid performance and should be free from any mention of CCA on the product page. Cat7 follows an ISO standard rather than a TIA/EIA specification, meaning it lacks specific electrical requirements and is likely a substandard cable. Cat8 is still under review, though some products claim to meet its specifications; genuine Cat8 cables are expected to cost over $1000 per roll due to the need for 25GbE and 40GbE support, possibly requiring a different connector type.
It's interesting you noticed this. Right now the typical setup looks like this. I agree with @Lurick, sticking to Cat6a makes sense. Remember, 10 Gbps Ethernet equipment can be quite costly, so it might not be practical to go all-in immediately. This could be a good opportunity to assess which devices truly benefit from 10G speeds. As far as I understand, fiber and direct copper connections have been around for a long time, while Ethernet gear is still relatively new. That means it carries a bit of the "novelty" factor. Personally, I think you might want to draw up your network layout on paper and see where 10G could make the biggest impact. In the meantime, you can install Cat6a throughout and assume all connections are ready for 10G. Upgrade devices gradually as needed.
SM Fiber offers similar value to copper prices. SFPs, switches, and NICs add significant worth. On the other hand, Cat7/8 standards remain largely outdated. Cat7 is considered fake, and Cat8 is unlikely to gain widespread use even with future development. If your needs exceed 6a due to interference, switching to fiber would be advisable.
Looking for Cat.8 search results on Delock? Check their website for more details.
According to @Lurick, the cables labeled as Cat8 are probably fake. The Chinese would be willing to sell you a lot of air just to make some money, making it tough to get proper cabling while the standards are still being developed.