Cable management is easier than you think. Start planning for it by thinking about what’s needed today. Then, consider future growth. Remember, organizing is part of the process, not an add‑on task at the end. Keep your network cable management at its best with these top 10 tips:
Identify cables using color
This prevents outages through a reliable system of identification.
Label both ends of network, patch and power cables
A well-documented infrastructure is easier to add onto, upgrade, change and maintain.
Use consistent, easy-to-read labels on cables, servers, racks, IT equipment, etc.
Printed labels that use a system are easy to identify and locate.
Bundle
Bundling cables creates space where air can circulate to cool cables, avoiding excessive heat.
Separate different types of cables
Example: keep power cables apart from data cables. This can prevent electromagnetic interference, which may interrupt circuits or cause data to be lost.
Use the correct cable length
The #1 reason for messy cabling. Avoid excessive cabling (more than 12 inches).
Wrap cables with fasteners and ties
These won’t bind or damage cables and provide a nice, neat way to view bundles.
Don’t pull, stretch, bend or twist cables
This can cause cable damage, impacting performance.
Fully document all cables and cable runs in the network
Technicians shouldn’t guess a cable’s function. It wastes time and could cause issues.
Support cables throughout their cabling routes
Install new cables by placing them in cable trays, baskets and ladders.
