Many factors affect success of the cabling system design and further installation. Aspects like proper design, materials, and workmanship can affect network performance. Proper design is the starting point of well-done network. Designing blueprints for cable runs and all the related devices should be done first. Design should meet all the desired standards and performance requirements, while still being flexible enough to have some changes possible after initial deployment. In practice it means that any part of the network could create additional node with an endpoint or network extension at any point. Having additional cabling outlets is recommended for each particular room in design. It might prevent future complications with network equipment or end workstations.

Another concern that should be taken into consideration while designing network should be longevity or future proofness. It is highly recommended to use the most current technology available (and most affordable). Otherwise, future switch from coax to UTP, and UTP to fiber might be even more expensive than installation of it in the first place.

It’s no brainer already even for regular home users having optical cables installed in house. ADnet fiber media converters are widely sold in retail for example here in amazon.

Maintenance of the network is inevitable, and it is important to plan it ahead. Administrator needs to have access to cabling system, and apply modifications if necessary. Cables and network equipment should be neatly located, and thoroughly documented.

All of the previous points should be scaled based on the budget available. Some compromises might be necessary in order to get best result from your investment.

It is important to find a balance between quality materials and price. Quality of cables would directly affect the transmission efficiency. In addition quality, designer should consider which kind of warranty is provided by manufacturer. Also, it is important that cabling is fire resistant.

Last step that needs to be seriously considered, is the installation of the equipment and cabling. Good workmanship ensures that problems like network throughput and effectiveness issues could be avoided. It applies both for copper and optical solutions, however it is much easier to have problems in optical network, if it has been installed by non-professionals.