Networking Basics

PoE Devices

The primary difference between a Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch and a non-PoE switch lies in their ability to deliver power over Ethernet cables. PoE switches can power devices like IP cameras and wireless access points, eliminating the need for separate power cords and outlets. Non-PoE switches, on the other hand, require devices to be powered by individual power adapters.

PoE Switches

Power Delivery:
PoE switches transmit both data and power via the same Ethernet cable.
Reduced Complexity:
They simplify wiring and installation by eliminating the need for separate power cords and outlets.
Multiple PoE Standards:
PoE switches can support different standards like PoE (15.4W), PoE+ (30W), and PoE++ (60W or 100W), catering to various power needs.
Applications:
Suitable for devices like IP cameras, wireless access points, VoIP phones, and other PoE-enabled devices.
Benefits:
Cost savings on wiring and infrastructure, easier deployment, and reduced cable clutter.

Non-PoE Switches

No Power Delivery:
They only transmit data and require devices to be powered by separate power adapters.
Traditional Approach:
Devices need to be plugged into a power outlet, which can be less convenient and more complex.
Limited Power Options:
They cannot power devices using the network cable itself.
Applications:
Suitable for devices like computers, printers, and other devices that require dedicated power sources.

SWITCHS MANAGED vs. UNMANAGED

The main difference between managed and unmanaged switches lies in their functionality and control. Managed switches offer advanced features and configuration options, allowing network administrators to monitor, manage, and customize network settings. Unmanaged switches are simpler, plug-and-play devices that automatically operate without requiring configuration, suitable for basic networking needs.

Managed Switches:

Control and Configuration:
Managed switches provide extensive control over network traffic, security settings, and performance.
Advanced Features:
They offer features like VLANs (Virtual LANs), port mirroring, SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) support, and traffic prioritization, allowing for optimization and security.
Monitoring and Management:
Network administrators can monitor network performance, identify potential issues, and make changes remotely through a web interface or command-line interface.
Suitable for:
Larger, more complex networks, enterprise environments, and situations where granular control and advanced features are needed.

Unmanaged Switches:

Plug-and-Play:
Unmanaged switches are easy to set up, requiring no configuration or software installation.
Basic Functionality:
They focus on simple connectivity, forwarding Ethernet frames, and connecting devices on a local network.
No Configuration:
They lack advanced features like VLANs or remote management capabilities.
Suitable for:
Small offices, home networks, or situations where basic connectivity is needed without the need for extensive configuration or management.

Networking Cable Difference

The primary difference between CAT5e, CAT6, CAT7, and CAT8 cables lies in their maximum data transfer speeds and distances, which are determined by their bandwidth specifications. Generally, as the category number increases, the cable's bandwidth and data transfer capabilities improve, allowing for faster and more reliable data transmission over longer distances.

CAT5e:

Speed: Up to 1 Gbps.
Bandwidth: 100 MHz.
Ideal for: Home and small office networks with basic Ethernet needs.
Cost: Relatively affordable

CAT6:

Speed: Up to 10 Gbps over shorter distances (e.g., 55 meters).
Bandwidth: 250 MHz.
Ideal for: Medium-sized networks and applications requiring higher data transfer speeds than CAT5e.
Cost: More expensive than CAT5e.

CAT7:

Speed: Up to 10 Gbps.
Bandwidth: 600 MHz.
Ideal for: High-performance applications, data centers, and situations where shielding is needed.
Cost: More expensive than CAT6.
Shielding: Offers better shielding for noise reduction than CAT6.

CAT8:

Speed: Up to 40 Gbps over shorter distances (e.g., 30 meters).
Bandwidth: 2000 MHz.
Ideal for: Data centers and ultra-fast networking applications.
Cost: Most expensive of the four options.
Shielding: Offers the highest level of shielding for noise reduction.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ethernet Cabling

What is Shielded Twisted Pair and Unshielded Twisted Pair?

Shielded twisted pair cable has individual pairs of wires wrapped again and again in a foil for additional protection. Unshielded twisted pair cable has each pair of wire twisted and wrapped in tubing without any protection.

Unlike unshielded twisted pair, the shielded twisted pair requires a grounding cable. According to geeksforgeeks.org, data rates of shielded twisted pair cables are higher than unshielded twisted pair. Furthermore, shielded twisted pair cables have less noise and cross talk than the unshielded twisted pair.

Are There Any Cabling Standards Apart from CAT5e, CAT6, and CAT8?

The earliest cabling standards are CAT1-CAT5. CAT1 is used for standard telephone wiring. CAT2 is used for 4Mbit/s token ring networks, whereas the CAT3 supports data networks with a speed of 10 Mbps. CAT4 supports networks with frequencies of 20 MHz and is used on 16 Mbps token ring networks.

CAT5 superseded the CAT3 and 4 versions and became the common standard in the early 2000s. It comes with a speed of 100 Mbps. However, it is now obsolete, and new networks will either have Category 5e, 6, 6a, or 8 cabling.

What is Cross Talk?

An excellent example of crosstalk is when using a landline phone. Since landline phones have twisted-pair wiring, when a neighboring phone’s twisted-pair wiring interrupts your signal, the resulting interference is called crosstalk. The unwanted signal interrupts the message being passed by another circuit. A technician can check cables with a tester to determine whether crosstalk is going to be a problem.

What is EMI?

Some electrical equipment emits interference. This is what you experience when listening to the radio or watching television. The interference is called electromagnetic interference or EMI. This is a form of radio wave that is similar to those emitted by broadcasting antennas.

In some cases, the interference is temporary, but in other cases, it is a nuisance. Examples of emitters of EMI include thermostats switching on and off, mobile phones, and microwave ovens. Ethernet cabling has a protective sheath that reduces EMI.

How far can you run Cable?

Standards for cable distance recommend that Cat5, Cat5e, Cat6 and Cat6a cables have a maximum cable segment run length of 100 meters or 328 feet. The cable distance specifications are part of the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) and Electronic Industries Alliance (EIA) standards.

Pass-through and non-pass-through RJ45 connectors are both used to connect Cat5e cables, but they differ in how the wires are terminated. Pass-through connectors have holes that allow the wires to be inserted directly, while non-pass-through connectors require the wires to be trimmed and inserted individually.

Pass through Connectors

Simpler termination:
They require less preparation and trimming, making them faster and easier to terminate, especially for beginners or DIYers.
Reduced risk of errors:
The direct insertion method minimizes the chances of wire misplacement or accidental damage during termination.
Faster installation:
The simplified process can significantly reduce the time it takes to create custom cables.
Government Installs: They are not allowed on some government installs

Non-Pass through Connectors

More traditional termination:
They are more closely aligned with the traditional termination process for RJ45 connectors.
May require less specialized tools:
While a specific tool is often recommended for pass-through connectors, non-pass-through connectors can be crimped with a standard RJ45 crimper.
May be more familiar to some installers:
Some installers may prefer the traditional termination process due to experience and comfort.

To make a Cat5 cable, you'll need a crimping tool, a cable cutter, a cable stripper, and RJ45 connectors. Optional tools include a network tester, measuring tape, and cable boots..

Essential Tools:

RJ45 Crimping Tool: This tool is used to attach RJ45 connectors to the ends of the cable.
Cable Cutter: Used to cut the cable to the desired length.
Cable Stripper: Used to remove the outer jacket of the cable without damaging the inner conductors.
RJ45 Connectors: These are the connectors that plug into network devices.

Optional Tools:

Network Tester: Used to verify that the cable is wired correctly and that the connection is working.
Measuring Tape: Helps you measure the desired cable length.
Cable Boots: Optional protective sleeves for the connectors.

List of Default Router IP Addresses For Common Router Brands

Please see the list of default IP addresses for commonly used router makes below-

2Wire

192.168.1.1

192.168.0.1

192.168.1.254

10.0.0.138

Cisco

192.168.1.1

192.168.0.30

192.168.0.50

10.0.0.1

10.0.0.2

D-Link

192.168.1.1

192.168.0.1

192.168.0.10

192.168.0.101

192.168.0.30

192.168.0.50

192.168.1.254

192.168.15.1

192.168.254.254

10.0.0.1

10.0.0.2

10.1.1.1

10.90.90.90

Linksys

192.168.1.1

192.168.0.1

192.168.1.10

192.168.1.210

192.168.1.254

192.168.1.99

192.168.15.1

192.168.16.1

192.168.2.1

Netgear

192.168.0.1

192.168.0.227

TP-Link

192.168.1.1

192.168.0.1

192.168.0.254

Trendnet

192.168.1.1

192.168.0.1

192.168.0.30

192.168.0.100

192.168.1.100

192.168.1.254

192.168.10.1

192.168.10.10

192.168.10.100

192.168.2.1

192.168.223.100

200.200.200.5

Travel Routers

Travel routers offer several advantages for travelers, including enhanced security, convenience, and improved connectivity. By creating a secure, private Wi-Fi network, they protect against public Wi-Fi vulnerabilities and allow for easy sharing of internet access across multiple devices.

Enhanced Security:
Public Wi-Fi networks are often insecure and lack encryption, making them vulnerable to hacking and data breaches. Travel routers offer a secure, encrypted network, protecting your devices and data from unauthorized access.
Convenience:
Instead of connecting each device individually to a public Wi-Fi network, you can connect them all to your travel router's network, saving time and effort.
Improved Connectivity:
Travel routers can provide a more stable and reliable internet connection, even in areas with weak Wi-Fi signals or limited access to networks.
Sharing and Data Costs:
They allow you to share your internet connection with multiple devices, reducing reliance on individual mobile hotspots and potentially saving on data costs.
VPN Integration:
Many travel routers offer VPN (Virtual Private Network) support, encrypting your internet traffic and further enhancing security.
Flexibility:
Travel routers can be used in various ways, such as creating a personal hotspot, extending an existing Wi-Fi signal, or connecting to a wired network.
Accessing Browserless Devices:
They can be used to connect devices that don't have built-in web browsers, such as media streaming sticks or IoT devices, to public or captive portal networks.
Connecting to Home Network:
With features like ZeroTier or Tailscale, travel routers can connect you to your home network, allowing you to access your home network storage or services from anywhere.

How to Use My Travel Wi-Fi Router

Initial Setup and Installation Guidance

The initial setup of your travel router is designed to be straightforward, ensuring you can start using the internet as soon as possible. Begin by fully charging your device to ensure uninterrupted service during setup. If your router model requires a SIM card for connectivity, insert one that has an active data plan. Next, power on the router and connect to it using a smartphone, tablet, or computer. This is typically done through a dedicated app or a web interface that guides you through the necessary network settings, such as SSID configuration and password setup. These steps are designed to be user-friendly and are often completed in just a few minutes.

Steps to Connect Devices to the Travel Router

To connect your devices to the travel router, follow these simple steps:

Access Wi-Fi Settings: On each device that needs internet access, open the Wi-Fi settings menu.
Select Network: Find the SSID (network name) you configured during the setup of your travel router and select it from the list of available networks.
Enter Password: Input the password you set up for your router’s network. This step ensures that only authorized users can access your connection.

Once connected, your devices should be able to access the internet as long as they are within the router’s range.

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