Written by

Tamatha Hazen

October 3, 2024

Edited by

Kristen Cramer

Average Ethernet installation cost

Ethernet installation costs range from $2,000 to $6,000+, depending on the size of the home and the type of cable used. New construction installations are more straightforward with lower labor costs, while retrofitting existing homes is more complex and labor-intensive for drilling holes and feeding cables through walls.

Cost of Ethernet cable

The cost of Ethernet cable varies widely from $0.05 to $6.00 per foot for the cable alone, depending on the type. Each cable type offers various benefits in terms of speed, bandwidth, and signal quality. The table below details average material costs per foot for common Ethernet cable types:

Coaxial cable

Coaxial cable costs $0.05 to $0.20 per foot for the materials alone. Coaxial cable is commonly used for cable TV and internet connections and is made up of a central wire surrounded by insulation, a metal shield, and an outer layer. This type of cable protects signals from interference and can transmit data over long distances, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Twisted pair cable

Twisted pair cable, commonly known as CAT (Category) cable, consists of insulated copper wires twisted together. It's widely used in residential settings for internet connections, home networking, and phone lines. CAT cables typically cost $0.10 to $1.10 per foot.

These cables come in two main varieties: Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP), which is more common and cost-effective for most home uses, and Shielded Twisted Pair (STP), which offers better protection against interference but is more expensive.

The most commonly used CAT cables for home networks include:

• CAT-5e: An enhanced version of CAT-5, supporting speeds up to 1 Gbps, this type is ideal for basic internet usage and is widely used in residential settings due to its affordability and sufficient performance for standard needs.

• CAT-6: Offering speeds up to 10 Gbps over shorter distances (up to 55 meters), this cable is suitable for households that require higher bandwidth for activities like gaming and streaming.

• CAT-6a: Similar to CAT-6, this cable type provides better shielding and supports 10 Gbps speeds over longer distances (up to 100 meters). It's a good choice for future-proofing your home network.

• CAT-7: The most expensive type, CAT-7 supports speeds up to 10 Gbps with enhanced shielding, making it suitable for environments with a lot of data traffic, although it may be more than necessary for typical home use.

For most home users, CAT-5e or CAT-6 cables are sufficient, while CAT-6a offers a solid option for those looking to invest in a more robust solution.

Fiber optic cable

Fiber optic cable uses thin strands of glass or plastic to transmit data as light pulses. It offers several advantages:

• Extremely high bandwidth and data transmission speeds

• Long-distance transmission with minimal signal loss

• Immunity to electromagnetic interference

While traditionally more expensive than copper cables at $1 to $6 per foot, fiber optic is becoming increasingly common in residential areas, offering future-proof speeds for home networks.

What affects the cost of Ethernet cable installation?

Ethernet installation involves several key components that work together to create a functional network. These elements include cables, Ethernet ports, network switches, routers, and modems. Understanding these components is essential when planning and budgeting for your Ethernet installation project.

• Labor cost: For a large-scale project with 2,000 feet of cable and eight Ethernet connections, the electrical work alone costs $50 to $130 per hour or $1,500 to $5,000 total for the 30 to 40 hours needed to install Ethernet cable throughout an existing house.

• Cable type: CAT cables cost between $0.10 and $1.10 per foot, with higher categories being more expensive. Fiber optic cables are generally pricier, ranging from $1.00 to $6.00 per foot, but they offer faster speeds and longer distances.

• Ethernet ports or jacks: These are the outlets where devices connect to the network. It’s recommended to install at least two ports per room to accommodate multiple devices, with installation costs ranging from $100 to $200 per port, including materials and labor.

• Router: A router costs $80 to $120 and directs internet traffic to your devices. Some models combine a router and modem. If you choose a wireless router, ensure it has good security features to protect your network from unauthorized access.

• Modem: A modem costs $50 to $100 and connects your home network to the internet, controlling data speeds, bandwidth, and network reliability. Some internet service providers (ISPs) provide modems, but purchasing your own may offer better quality and speeds.

• Network switch: Costs range from $10 to $100 for home models that allow multiple devices to connect to a network. Some routers have built-in switches, while others may need a separate switch. Using Power over Ethernet (PoE) switches can simplify the installation of smart devices by providing both power and data through a single cable.

Smart home integration

A wired Ethernet network is ideal for optimizing the performance and reliability of smart home devices. A wired network provides faster, more stable connections while reducing Wi-Fi congestion and improving security.

Devices that benefit from Ethernet connections include smart TVs, streaming devices, security cameras, video doorbells, smart speakers, voice assistants, and thermostats. When integrating these smart home technologies:

• Install extra Ethernet ports for hubs in central locations to accommodate smart home hubs and future devices.

• Use Power over Ethernet (PoE) switches for devices needing power and data, like security cameras.

• Consider running empty conduit alongside Ethernet cables makes it easier to add or replace cables in the future without opening walls.

Ethernet installation FAQs

What is an Ethernet cable?

An Ethernet cable is a type of network cable used to connect devices to a local area network (LAN), allowing them to communicate with each other and access the internet.

Is Ethernet cable better than Wi-Fi?

While Wi-Fi offers convenience and mobility, Ethernet is often preferred for devices that require high-speed and stable connections, such as desktop computers, gaming consoles, and smart TVs. Many households opt for a combination of both, using Ethernet for stationary devices and Wi-Fi for mobile ones to create a robust and flexible home network.

Who can I hire to install Ethernet?

You can hire either an electrician or a networking specialist. Electricians have the skills and tools to run cables through walls safely and efficiently when experienced in data cabling. For complex projects or those requiring advanced networking knowledge, hire a networking specialist specifically trained in data cabling to ensure optimal performance.

Can I install Ethernet cables myself?

While you can install Ethernet cables yourself, you may want to hire a professional unless you have experience with electrical work. Mistakes can lead to poor performance, connectivity issues, or even damage to your home’s infrastructure. Hiring a professional ensures the installation is done correctly and safely.

How many Ethernet ports do I need?

Network experts generally recommend installing at least two Ethernet ports in each room where you want wired internet access. This allows for multiple devices to connect without needing to unplug and replug cables.

Do I need a separate modem and router?

You don't necessarily need a separate modem and router. Some devices combine both functions into one unit. However, having separate devices can offer more flexibility and potentially better performance.

Getting estimates from network installers

Follow these recommendations when hiring an electrician or network installer near you:

• Verify the installer is licensed and insured.

• Look for professionals with specific experience in network cabling. Ask how many similar projects they have completed to gauge their expertise.

• Request contact information from past clients to learn about their experiences. Positive feedback on HomeGuide and Google can indicate reliability and quality of work.

• Obtain multiple quotes that include itemized costs for labor and materials. This helps you compare services and understand what you’re paying for.

• Ask about how they plan to route the cables (e.g., through walls or ceilings) and how they will minimize visibility to maintain your home’s aesthetics.

• Ensure they'll test all connections after installation to verify functionality.

• Ask about warranties on both labor and materials for added peace of mind.

• Pay attention to their professionalism during initial meetings, including punctuality, attire, and overall demeanor, which can reflect their work ethic.

• Ask if they offer ongoing support or maintenance services in case you encounter issues after the installation is complete.

Questions to ask a network installer

Ask these questions to help you determine the qualifications and reliability of the Ethernet installer:

• What is your experience with Ethernet installations, and can you provide examples of similar projects you've completed?

• Are you licensed and insured? Can you provide proof of your credentials?

• What types of cables do you recommend for my specific needs (e.g., Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a), and why?

• How do you plan to route the cables in my home to minimize visibility and disruption?

• What testing procedures do you follow after installation to ensure everything is functioning correctly?

• How do you handle unforeseen issues that may arise during the installation process?

• What is your estimated timeline for completing the installation, and how will you communicate progress updates?

• Can you explain your warranty policy for both labor and materials used in the installation?

• Do you offer any post-installation support or maintenance services in case I encounter issues later on?

• Can you provide references from previous clients who had similar work done?