Advice with network setup

Hi,

I am about to move into a new office and currently have ethernet cables running everywhere in my current office.

In the new office I want to tidy things up so need to a little bit of help on the best configuration.

On the network sits the following:

3 x Computers
3 x Voip Phones
1 x Printer
1 x Franking Machine
1 x Cloud Storage Drive
1 x Router for internet

I am thinking I will put sockets on the walls for all network connections but would like to know if it is worth having a cabinet with a switch and patch panel or should I just use a switch and forget the patch panel altogether being that the network is only small.

Of course any other suggestions on how to wire this all up the best way is welcome. I have no problem with doing any wiring myself.

Many thanks.

 

What are the dimensions of the office space? Can you put a switch near the ISP's modem? Are all the computers desktops?

I would like to see the router, switch and the storage drive in one location where they wont be disturbed.

What is a Franking machine?

 

We are only talking of an office which is about 10x10 meters.

The switch, storage and isp router will all be together.

A franking machine is only a machine for stamping mail. It connects to the lan for software updates and for applying credit.

 

The farthest a device can be from the switch is 130 ft. With the size of you office that gives you a lot of latitude.

If you are thinking of putting receptacles in the walls plenum grade wiring and a patch panel should likely be used. You can mount a 16 port switch in the rack with the patch panel. Route the wiring away from overhead lights and other electrical wiring. If you have to cross over electrical wiring its best to cross at 90 degrees. Locate your patch panel close to where the cable comes in from your ISP. Have enough electricity at that location for the devices in that location. Purchased a good ups device for the modem, switch and storage device.