Knowledge

Choosing the right Ethernet cable category is one of the most consequential decisions in any network deployment. The cabling you install today will serve your organisation for a decade or more, so understanding the real-world differences between Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a and Cat8 is essential. This guide breaks down speeds, distances, shielding options, PoE considerations and installation best practices to help you future-proof your investment.

26 Feb 2026
8m
Knowledge

Power over Ethernet (PoE) simplifies network deployments by delivering power and data over a single Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for separate power outlets at every access point, camera, and phone. However, every PoE switch has a finite power budget, and oversubscribing it can cause devices to fail unexpectedly. This guide explains how to plan your PoE power budget properly so every device gets the power it needs.

26 Feb 2026
7m
Knowledge

Setting up a network for a new small office can be daunting if you do not have a clear plan. From the internet connection to the last cable run, every component needs to work together to deliver reliable connectivity, security, and performance. This guide walks through every layer of a small office network, explains what each component does, and provides a practical checklist so nothing gets overlooked.

26 Feb 2026
8m
Knowledge

Power over Ethernet has transformed IP camera installations by delivering both data and electrical power over a single network cable. No more running separate mains power to every camera location, no more electrician call-outs for each new device. But a well-designed PoE camera network requires more than just plugging cables in — you need the right switches, proper VLAN segmentation, bandwidth planning, and protection against the elements.

26 Feb 2026
7m
Knowledge

MikroTik RouterOS is a powerful, Linux-based network operating system that turns affordable hardware into enterprise-capable routers, firewalls, and wireless controllers. Known for its extraordinary flexibility and low cost, MikroTik has earned a loyal following among ISPs and network professionals. This beginner's guide explains what RouterOS offers and whether it is right for your network.

26 Feb 2026
7m
Knowledge

Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN) is transforming how businesses connect branch offices, remote workers, and cloud applications. By abstracting the WAN control plane from the underlying transport, SD-WAN delivers better performance, lower costs, and simpler management than traditional MPLS networks. This guide explains how SD-WAN works and when it makes sense for your organisation.

26 Feb 2026
5m
Knowledge

Power over Ethernet (PoE) lets you deliver both data and electrical power through a single Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for separate power supplies at each device. From IP cameras and WiFi access points to VoIP phones and door access controllers, PoE simplifies deployment and reduces cabling costs. This guide covers the IEEE standards, power budgets, and planning tips you need.

26 Feb 2026
Intermediate 6m
Knowledge

Wireless standards are evolving rapidly, and the alphabet soup of WiFi 6, WiFi 6E, and WiFi 7 can be confusing. This guide cuts through the marketing jargon and explains what each standard actually delivers, which technologies drive the real-world improvements, and when it makes sense for your business to upgrade.

26 Feb 2026
6m
Knowledge

Virtual LANs (VLANs) are one of the most important yet overlooked tools in business networking. By logically segmenting a single physical network into isolated broadcast domains, VLANs improve security, boost performance, and simplify management. This guide explains how VLANs work, why they matter, and how to start using them on your managed switch.

26 Feb 2026
6m