M
AKING

N

ETWORK

C

ONNECTIONS

4-8

Cable Labeling and Connection Records
When planning a network installation, it is essential to label the opposing
ends of cables and to record where each cable is connected. Doing so will
enable you to easily locate inter-connected devices, isolate faults and
change your topology without need for unnecessary time consumption.
To best manage the physical implementations of your network, follow
these guidelines:
• Clearly label the opposing ends of each cable.
• Using your building’s floor plans, draw a map of the location of all
network-connected equipment. For each piece of equipment, identify
the devices to which it is connected.
• Note the length of each cable and the maximum cable length
supported by the switch ports.
• For ease of understanding, use a location-based key when assigning
prefixes to your cable labeling.
• Use sequential numbers for cables that originate from the same
equipment.
• Differentiate between racks by naming accordingly.
• Label each separate piece of equipment.
• Display a copy of your equipment map, including keys to all
abbreviations at each equipment rack.