Staying connected nowadays is more of a necessity than a luxury. If you’re looking for a stable and speedy internet connection in your home or business, you’ve probably heard about Ethernet. But how much does it cost to install Ethernet? We review the average cost and break down the factors that can influence cost to give you an idea of how much the upgrade will set you back.
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Why Spend on Ethernet?
Ethernet is the gold standard of connectivity within homes and businesses. Unlike wireless connections that are susceptible to interference and signal drops, Ethernet provides a stable and consistent link. High-speed data transfers, secure connections, and minimal latency are just a few advantages of choosing Ethernet.
The Average Cost
The cost to install Ethernet varies, typically ranging between $400 to $4000. Since most people hire professional installers, the average cost totals out to about $3,000. This estimation accounts for essential materials and labor. However, the price can fluctuate based on your specific needs and the complexity of the installation.
Factors That Determine Cost
If $4,000 seems prohibitively high for you, there’s a good chance your final cost will be much lower. Here are some factors that determine cost, some of which you can control.
Whether You DIY or Hire a Pro
If you possess technical know-how and the right tools, going the DIY route is by far the most economical. A DIY installation typically costs between $100 and $1,500, depending on additional factors we will review below.
Conversely, professional installation hovers between $2,000 and $5,000, also depending on the factors below.
A professional ensures a neat job with fewer mistakes and headaches, but going DIY is a great opportunity to save costs.
The Type of Cabling You Use
Ethernet cabling comes in various categories, such as Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, Cat7, and beyond, each offering different performance levels and price points. Higher-category cables support faster speeds and advanced features but come at a premium.
But don’t let a higher initial cost scare you away. For example, one of the benefits of Cat6a cables is their cost-effectiveness in the long run despite a higher initial cost. This is due to their excellent quality.
How Much Cabling You Install
The extent of your installation also impacts the cost. Depending on the type of cabling you choose, it costs between $0.05 and $4.50 per foot. Therefore, larger areas or multiple endpoints that require more cabling will drive up the expense.
Your Current Equipment Setup
Existing infrastructure can influence how much it costs to install Ethernet. If your setup is outdated or incompatible with newer Ethernet standards, additional upgrades or components will probably be necessary. This includes switches, routers, or wall jacks, all increasing the overall expense.
How much it costs to install Ethernet is different for every setup. The most significant determining factor is whether you go DIY or professional, but the type and amount of cabling you use, as well as what your existing setup looks like, all affect cost. Use this knowledge to estimate your costs before getting serious about installation.
