Running Ethernet cable outdoors can be a risky proposition, but there are a few precautions you can take to minimize the risk. First and foremost, make sure the cable is properly rated for outdoor use. Many cables are designed for indoor use only, and may not be able to handle the rigors of outdoor exposure. If in doubt, consult your cable manufacturer or an experienced installer. Another important factor to consider is the weather. Ethernet cables are susceptible to moisture and extreme temperatures, so make sure to keep them protected from both elements. Use an outdoor jacket or cover if necessary, and keep the cable as dry as possible. Finally, be aware of any potential hazards that may be present in your area. Electrical lines and trees can both pose a danger if they’re crossed, so be sure to check out your surroundings before making any connections. ..
You want to link your home network to an outbuilding, like a garage or workshop, and wired is the only way to go. How do you run the Ethernet cable safely to the secondary building?
Today’s Question & Answer session comes to us courtesy of SuperUser—a subdivision of Stack Exchange, a community-driven grouping of Q&A web sites.
The Question
SuperUser reader Yoyoyoyosef is ready to wire his garage with Ethernet, but he has a few questions:
The best way to avoid a minor accident (or a big tragedy) later on is to ask good questions before you start a project; he’s off to a good start here.
- Is there special outdoor-rated cat5e/cat6 I should use? 2. If put it in a dug trench, do I need to put it in conduit? 3. If I run parallel to electric, how much separation do I need, and do I go UTP or STP? 4. If I do an overhead run, how should I properly ground it against lightning?
The Answer
SuperUser contributor Jweede offers some advice:
Another contributor, Keck, suggests combining the two installation techniques:
Is there special outdoor-rated cat5e/cat6 I should use?
“Preferably, special exterior or direct burial CAT5 cables should be used for outdoor runs instead of ordinary CAT5.”
If put it in a dug trench, do I need to put it in conduit?
“Exterior-grade Ethernet cables are waterproof and thus do not require conduit.”
If I run parallel to electric, how much separation do I need, and do I go UTP or STP?
“5-20cm (6-8 inches) and at least that far away from power lines or other sources of electrical interference.”
If I do an overhead run, how should I properly ground it against lightning?
“Accordingly, CAT5 surge protectors should be installed as part of outdoor Ethernet networks to guard against lightning strikes.”
When it comes to underground/remote cable installation, it’s definitely worth the extra money up front to do it right (and avoid the headache of pulling new cable, fixing a sloppy installation, or otherwise doing the whole thing over at a later date).
Have something to add to the explanation? Sound off in the the comments. Want to read more answers from other tech-savvy Stack Exchange users? Check out the full discussion thread here.
