Networks & Infrastructure
Build on a stronger connection.
Connect your people, devices and buildings with dependable network infrastructure, from Cat6 and Cat6a cabling and fibre installations to business Wi-Fi.
How we can help
Networks & Infrastructure, built around your business.
Copper — Cat6 & Cat6a
Reliable connections for your workplace, with cable options for indoor and external routes. Certified using our own Fluke DSX-8000.
Fibre
High-capacity connections between cabinets and buildings, with OM4, duct-grade and armoured options, splicing and patch panels.
UniFi networks & Wi-Fi
A premium platform for wireless access, cloud-connected management, cybersecurity and network segmentation, with Etherlighting on compatible switches.
Explore UniFi & business Wi-Fi →Copper: Cat6 & Cat6a
A practical connection for computers, phones, wireless access points and cameras. Compatible equipment can also use Power over Ethernet (PoE), carrying power and data on the same cable.
| Cabling | Ethernet speed | Channel distance |
|---|---|---|
| Cat6 | 1 Gbps | Up to 100 m |
| Cat6 | 10 Gbps | Up to 55 m, subject to installation conditions and alien crosstalk assessment |
| Cat6a | 10 Gbps | Up to 100 m |
Channel distances include patch leads; a typical 100 m channel allows 90 m of fixed cabling plus 10 m of patch leads. Cat6a provides more headroom for 10 Gigabit connections across a full-length channel. Network equipment must support the intended speed.
Cable options for your environment
Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) cable options reduce smoke and halogen acid gas emissions in a fire and are available for public and occupied buildings. We select the cable’s fire performance to suit the installation requirements.
Steel Wire Armoured (SWA) options provide mechanical protection for external and underground routes. Direct burial requires a cable specifically rated for that use, with suitable protection and installation design.
Certified with our own Fluke DSX-8000
We certify our copper installations using our own in-house Fluke DSX-8000 cable certifier, testing the installed cabling against the appropriate category and link limits.
Fibre connectivity
High-capacity links between cabinets, floors and buildings. Optical fibre is immune to electromagnetic interference and supports longer links than copper, depending on the fibre and transceivers selected.
OM4 for commercial and small-campus networks
OM4 is a widely used, high-performance multimode fibre and a practical choice for many commercial and small-campus links within its distance limits. OM5 is a newer multimode grade; OS2 single-mode fibre may be more suitable for longer campus routes or future expansion.
| OM4 connection | Speed | Typical standards-based reach |
|---|---|---|
| 10GBASE-SR | 10 Gbps | Up to 400 m |
| 25GBASE-SR | 25 Gbps | Up to 100 m |
| 40GBASE-SR4 | 40 Gbps | Up to 150 m |
| 100GBASE-SR4 | 100 Gbps | Up to 100 m |
Actual reach depends on the optics, connector losses and complete link design. SR4 connections use parallel fibres and typically MPO/MTP connectivity; these speeds are not all available over a standard duplex LC link. Suitable alternative optics can offer different distances and connector arrangements.
Duct and armoured cable options
We offer duct-grade fibre for suitable external duct routes and Steel Wire Armoured options where additional mechanical protection is needed. The cable construction is selected for the route, moisture exposure and any direct-burial requirements.
Splicing and fibre patch panels
We can splice fibres and install fibre patch panels with LC, SC or legacy connectors to suit your equipment. Most of our current installations use LC connectors, providing a compact, widely supported connection for modern network equipment.
Business Wi-Fi & managed networks
A premium platform.
A connected business.
We design and install UniFi networks that bring wireless access, switching and gateways together. Get dependable business Wi-Fi with a clear view of your network resources, cloud-connected management and practical support from Customer First.
Coverage where work happens.
Modern UniFi access points, including Wi-Fi 7 options, support busy offices, hospitality venues and shared spaces. We plan access-point placement, channels and capacity around your building, devices and user numbers.
Explore UniFi wireless →See and manage your resources.
Authorised administrators can use UniFi Site Manager and mobile apps to view sites, access points, switches, clients and alerts remotely. A suitable local UniFi console can keep core network operation on-site while enabling cloud-connected access.
How UniFi manages data →Protection built into the plan.
Compatible UniFi gateways offer firewall policies, intrusion detection and prevention, and traffic controls. We configure the agreed protections for your business and review available security enhancements, including optional CyberSecure subscriptions.
Explore intrusion protection →Separate what should stay separate.
Virtual networks (VLANs) can separate staff, visitors, phones, CCTV and connected equipment on shared infrastructure. We pair segmentation with suitable firewall and access rules to control which systems can communicate.
Why network segmentation matters →A welcome for your visitors.
Provide a dedicated guest wireless network with an optional branded welcome portal. We plan guest isolation and access policies so visitors can get online while your business resources remain appropriately restricted.
Clarity when you need help.
Central visibility helps us investigate coverage, connection and device issues. We can agree remote management, updates and support arrangements to keep your network working as your business grows.
Talk about managed networking →Wireless performance depends on the building, interference, connected devices and installation design. Features vary by equipment, configuration and software; some security services require a subscription.
UniFi switching · Etherlighting™
See your connections.
Simplify network support.
Useful visibility, right at the port.
Etherlighting illuminates ports on compatible UniFi switches to help identify a connection’s location, link speed or native VLAN. It makes tracing connections and understanding cabinet layouts easier for the people supporting your network.
We can include Etherlighting-capable switching in your network design where it adds value, alongside suitable cabling and patching.
Illustrative port colours. Etherlighting is a feature of compatible switches and is separate from wireless radio performance.
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Make the next step practical
Start with what you need to achieve.
Whether you are improving an existing setup, moving premises or planning something new, we will discuss your requirements and recommend a practical way forward.
Tell us about your current systems, the people who use them and the changes you want to make.
Let’s talk
Ready to make work easier?
Speak to Customer First Business Solutions about networks & infrastructure.