Outdoor-Rated vs. Indoor Cable: Choosing the Right Cabling for Exterior Network Runs
When planning a network installation, choosing the correct cabling is just as important as the equipment it connects. One common mistake businesses make is using indoor-rated cable for exterior network runs. Understanding the differences between outdoor-rated and indoor cable can help prevent performance issues, safety risks, and costly replacements.
What’s the Difference Between Indoor and Outdoor Network Cable?
Indoor network cable is designed for climate-controlled environments. It lacks protection against moisture, UV exposure, and temperature fluctuations. Outdoor-rated cable, on the other hand, is engineered with weather-resistant jackets, UV protection, and moisture-blocking materials to withstand harsh conditions.
Using indoor cable outdoors can lead to cracked insulation, corrosion, signal loss, and complete cable failure—sometimes within months.
When Outdoor-Rated Cable Is Required
Outdoor-rated cable should always be used when cabling is exposed to:
- Sunlight or UV radiation
- Rain, snow, or humidity
- Temperature extremes
- Underground or conduit installations
- Exterior walls or rooftop pathways
Even short exterior runs can degrade quickly if the wrong cable type is used.
Performance, Safety, and Code Compliance
Beyond durability, outdoor-rated cabling helps maintain consistent network performance and supports compliance with building and electrical codes. Improper cabling can cause signal interference, grounding issues, or fire hazards—putting your business at risk during inspections or insurance claims.
Trust the Professionals for Exterior Cabling
Selecting the right cable type requires experience with environmental conditions, pathways, and code requirements. Horizon Electronics provides professional low-voltage wiring services, including indoor and outdoor network cabling designed for long-term reliability and compliance. Our technicians ensure the correct materials are used for every environment—protecting your network investment.
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