Ethernet Cables
We like to color code our cables by length rather than purpose, because the length of a cable does not change over time, but the same cable can be used for many types of traffic. The thin cables are great for patch panels because they improve visibility and include less packaging, and the thick cables work well for stations because they are more durable.
Length | Color | Thin | Thick |
---|---|---|---|
1' | Orange | Buy on Monoprice | Buy on Monoprice |
2' | Pink (Red) | Buy on Monoprice | Buy on Monoprice |
3' | Green | Buy on Monoprice | Buy on Monoprice |
5' | Purple | Buy on Monoprice | Buy on Monoprice |
7' | White | Buy on Monoprice | Buy on Monoprice |
10' | Yellow | Buy on Monoprice | Buy on Monoprice |
14' | Gray | Buy on Monoprice | Buy on Monoprice |
25' | Black | N/A | Buy on Monoprice |
50' | Blue | N/A | Buy on Monoprice |
Computer Specs
We will provide specific details on models and builds when the time comes, but here is what we recommend for a general-purpose computer. Remember, underspending is worse than overspending.
Component | Spec |
---|---|
Processor | i5 or better Intel or Apple ARM |
RAM | 24 GB or more RAM |
Storage | 500 GB or larger SSD |
Display | High PPI (Retina) |
Graphics | Dedicated |
OS | macOS or Windows Pro (not Home) |
Budget | $2500 |
Internet Connectivity
Like most things, there are various grades of service for internet connectivity. This is a brief chart comparing different types of service and different performance metrics. Bandwidth, like horsepower in a car, is an easily marketable metric. Also, like the horsepower of a car, it should not be the sole consideration when selecting an internet connectivity solution. If horsepower were the only important factor, we would see more Dodge Charger Hellcats on the road and fewer BMWs.
We highly recommend secondary diverse-path WAN links for offices with premise-based servers or functions.
Type | Bandwidth | Guaranteed | Symmetrical | SLA | Latency | Jitter | Install Time | Typical Contract |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
DIA Fiber | 10Mb - 10Gb | Y | Y | Y | Low | Low | 90 Days | 1-3 years |
Fixed Wireless | 10Mb - 1Gb | Y | Y | Y | Low | Low | 14 Days | 1-3 years |
Metro Fiber | 10Mb - 1Gb | N | Y | N | Low | Medium | 30 Days | Month to Month |
Coax (Cable) | 50Mb - 300Mb | N | N | N | High | High | 14 Days | Month to Month |