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Network cable management:

your guide to server rack, ethernet & patch panel cable organization

It’s easy to understand why cable organization gets overlooked. Often hidden away, cable bundles don’t attract attention … unless there’s a problem. Which, if there is, may be because they look like this:

Example of a cable box with hundreds of intertwined, unorganized cables.

Said plainly, the term hot mess should NEVER describe your network cable management strategy. Rather, cable organization should be part of your installation process, not something you do when cables start looking messy. Figuring out WHY we need organization and HOW to improve it is a great place to start.

Server rack cable management — high tech, high demand

Rapidly evolving technology and more investment in digital strategies have put pressure on the cabling industry. If you’re a network installer, engineer or IT technician, you’re busy installing, updating and performing maintenance — under tight deadlines and strict regulations. But a rushed or unorganized install could be a red flag for future issues.

Here's why ...

Besides looking unsightly, a tangled bunch of cables in a server room can jeopardize a network. Outages, downed systems, data transmission errors — even overheating or fires can occur with power cables. Problems that will need to be fixed sooner than later, so why risk it? Taking a small amount of time to plan an organized cable system is worth it — to everyone.

Example of a perfectly organized cable box with hundreds of carefully labeled and dressed cables.

So, why organize your network cables?

A well-organized cable system offers an abundance of benefits, safety being the most important. But better management of data and power cabling has other perks, too.

Benefits to YOU:

  • Easier access to cables
  • Smoother repairs and upgrades
  • Faster troubleshooting (human errors are one of the main reasons for downtime)
  • Less chance of disconnecting the wrong cable

Benefits for the NETWORK (and users!):

  • Decreases network downtime and cable damage
  • Increases airflow and cooling, which can extend cable lifespans
  • Improves network performance with increased speed, efficiency and bandwidth
  • Decreases the chance for crosstalk where cables leak signals and cause data transmission errors

 

Much more than just a neat and professional appearance, better cable management offers a safe and easy way to maintain and service a network. Less guesswork means you’re more efficient, replacing cables in minutes — not hours.

These products make cable management a cinch

Resources

Warehouse shelves with several dozen different colors of wire spindles.

Wiring Color Codes

Improving electrical safety, one wire at time by identifying cables using color.

Learn More
A labeled BradyGrip hook bundling several dozen cords together and keeping them organized.

BradyGrip® Labels

Grip, grab and identify with BradyGrip® Print-on Hook Material featuring VELCRO® Brand Hook.

Learn More
A worker organizing the cables on a large industrial machine.

Cable Labeling Standards

What's new with ANSI/TIA-606-C cable labeling standards?

Learn More