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Without a doubt, wireless technology is the wave of the future. Most new devices on the assembly lines today are Bluetooth capable, and some don’t even provide the option for a wired connection (think: Bluetooth headphones). Despite this though, when it comes to your home or small office computer network, a hardwired computer network can’t be beat. That’s especially the case when it comes to security, stability and fast internet speeds.
If you’re in a position where you need to install an ethernet network in your home or small office, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide to ethernet installation costs, you’ll learn everything about getting set up with a wired network and how much you can expect to pay for it.
| AVERAGE COST TO INSTALL ETHERNET | |
|---|---|
| Average Cost | $3,800 |
| Highest Cost | $6,000 |
| Lowest Cost | $1,000 |
What Is Ethernet?
Ethernet is the word used for a wired home computer network. Ethernet allows you to connect several computer systems together to form what’s known as a LAN or local area network. Cables are king when it comes to an ethernet system, and one of the first decisions you’ll face when setting up ethernet is which type of cable to use.
Types of Ethernet Cables
- Coaxial Cable: This type of cable is the oldest option, and it won’t allow for some of today’s highest speeds. You can expect to pay $0.06 to $0.17 per foot for coaxial cables.
- Twisted Pair Cable: Also known as CAT cables, twisted pair cabling is a popular choice for ethernet connectivity. You’ll choose from CAT-5 (twisted copper), CAT-6 (standard cables) or CAT-7 (shielded cable), and the price per foot will average between $0.10 and $1.13. CAT-7 is the latest and greatest in twisted pair cables, offering the highest level of network security.
- Fiber Optic Cable: The newest in cabling options, fiber cable excels at long-distance communication and fast speeds. More expensive than other cabling options, fiber cable costs an average of $0.80 to $4.60 per square foot.
Cost to Install Ethernet
When it comes to ethernet installation cost, you have the option of hiring a professional or doing it yourself. If you hire professionals for a new installation of a hardwired computer network, you can expect a price range between $2,500 and $4,500, with an average price of $3,800. These prices are for new installation of 2,000 feet of CAT-6 cable with up to eight connections.
Capable of a DIY for ethernet? You can certainly save some coin. The average cost to install a basic ethernet network as a DIY is just $410, with a price range of $187 to $667 depending on factors like existing equipment, the amount of cabling required and whether you need to purchase a computer or modem.
Ethernet Installation Cost Breakdown
An ethernet network consists of many parts, and all contribute to the cost to install. Below, we’ll break down some of the more common parts of an ethernet network, along with basic pricing estimates for each.
- Cables: Perhaps the largest expense when it comes to installing an ethernet network in your home or office is cabling. This is the physical process of running cable from the connection point to each network access point. The average price for cabling ranges from $2,000 to $3,000, but factors like how much cable you need and the quality of the cable you choose can affect pricing.
- Wall Plates: Especially in a new construction home or office, you’ll need to think about electrical outlets and plugs and where you’d like them to be located. Installing too few outlets can prove to be a costly error, both in money and productivity, so be sure to map this out in advance. Expect to pay $10 to $25 for each network plate you need.
- Network Switch: A network switch allows you to access several different devices hooked to the same router. This is typically a minor expense for home networks, ranging between $10 and $100.
- Ethernet Port: These are the jacks you’ll plug into, and they also run between $10 and $25 each. You’ll need these jacks to connect devices to your local network.
- Modem: Ranging in price from $50 to $100, a modem is what actually connects your devices to the internet. Modems can be rented, but most people find it more cost-effective to purchase a high-quality modem for the best, fastest internet access.
- Router: Similar to a modem, a router can be rented. But you can purchase one for between $80 and $120. A router is what allows all connected devices and computers to access the same internet connection. Most of today’s routers are wireless, but you also have access for a wired router as well.
Factors That Affect Cost of Ethernet Installation
We’ve given you a good idea of the cost to install ethernet. But there are factors that can affect the average cost of ethernet installation as well.
Labor Cost
Average labor rates per hour for a network installation professional average between $50 and $100 per hour. But that cost can vary based even on simple things like where you live, which company you choose to hire and the size of your network.
Network Size
Speaking of network size, this is a major factor when it comes to ethernet installation costs. As mentioned, the standard cost averages for ethernet networks are based on a new installation of 2,000 feet of CAT-6 cable with up to eight connections. Need more or less work done? Your price could vary substantially from this industry average.
Difficulty of Installation
Installing an ethernet network in a new construction home or building will be a simpler installation than doing so in an existing building, especially an older building. In these cases, oftentimes cables need to go through existing walls, which calls for more extensive work and thus, a higher price.
Pre-Existing Components
Are there any parts of a network that already exist in your space? If so, this can reduce the price of your ethernet installation since it cuts down on the amount of work that needs to be done.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is ethernet more expensive than Wi-Fi?
When it comes to installation, a wired computer network is often more expensive than a wireless network. That’s because you’ll need to have cabling, and you’ll need more components than a wireless network.
What are the advantages of ethernet and Wi-Fi?
The biggest advantage of a wired network is security. And in today’s hack-prone society, this added security could be worth its weight in gold. Wired networks must have physical connections in order to function, which makes them much more difficult to hack than wireless networks.
Despite that, most people expect to be able to move about freely these days, which can only be accomplished with a wireless network. What’s more, since many people have multiple devices, a wireless network is a convenient and cost-effective way for everyone to get and stay connected.
What are the drawbacks of ethernet and Wi-Fi?
Ethernet computer networks are the dinosaurs of the internet age. Tangled wires and limited ports are some of the issues you’ll face if you opt for a wired network. Another drawback of a wired network is the expense: Often, installing cables can be pricier than having a wireless network.
The largest drawback of a wireless network is security: These networks are simply easier to hack than a wired network.
