How to Avoid Ethernet Connection Problems When Running Cables Under Rugs

Have you ever noticed that your ethernet connection suddenly stopped working, and when checking, the message says it's not plugged in, even though it is? This could be due to a variety of reasons, one of which is likely the degradation of the ethernet cable due to its placement under the rug.

The Dangers of Running Ethernet Cables Under Rugs

Running an ethernet cable or any wire under a rug can be problematic. If the rug is a weave showing on the underside or is a non-slip underside, it will abrade the wire insulation. Even for low-voltage ethernet cables, there are still risks involved. There is a possibility of damaging the cable, especially if it's tucked under the rug for an extended period. This can lead to a sudden failure of the connection.

Furthermore, the eight individual wires in an ethernet cable are in twisted pairs, and the twists are cleverly designed to ensure that each pair aligns correctly. When you walk over these twisted pairs, they flex under pressure against other pairs, leading to further damage over time. This phenomenon is known as twisted pair crosstalk.

Common Mode Rejection in Twisted Pair Wiring

Home study: Explore the concept of Common Mode Rejection in twisted pair wiring. This mechanism is crucial for reducing interference and noise in network cabling. If the cable is damaged under the rug, it may not be able to handle these signals efficiently, leading to a failed connection.

Checking for a Broken Cable

Are either of the devices at either end of the ethernet cable showing link lights? If they are not on or flashing, it is more than likely that the cable is broken. A common tell-tale sign is that the message states the connection is not plugged in, even when it is.

You can test this by trying to connect your laptop directly to the ethernet port where the wire that's under the carpet was plugged in. Unplug the cable under the rug and connect your laptop directly in its place. This bypasses the wire that's tucked under the carpet, allowing you to determine if it is the culprit.

Tips for Protecting Your Ethernet Cables

To avoid these issues, consider taking a few steps to properly protect and maintain your ethernet cables:

Use Outdoor Rated Cables: Next time, use outdoor-rated cables. They are specifically designed to be more durable and resistant to damage from environmental factors and daily wear and tear. Hide Cables Properly: Your local home center, such as Lowe’s or Home Depot, has a variety of options for hiding cables along a wall. Research wire molding to see how you can improve the aesthetics and protect the cables. Alternative Installation: If running through walls is not an option, consider using coax low voltage staples and fastening the wire directly above the baseboard. Make sure not to nail through the cable!

Alternatively, your issue may simply be a broken cable. Swapping out the cable might resolve the problem and help prevent future issues.

Conclusion

Proper cable installation and maintenance can help prevent the types of issues you're experiencing. Using appropriate materials and methods will ensure a reliable and long-lasting ethernet connection. If you encounter issues, troubleshooting with a direct connection test can help identify the problem and provide a solution.