How to Prepare for Cat6 Wall Fishing – 7 Key Steps

Before you start running Cat6 cables through your walls, it's critical to plan and prep. This guide covers seven essential steps that will save you time, money, and prevent costly mistakes. From choosing the right cable type to calculating how much cable you'll need and ensuring attic safety—this prep work will set your Ethernet wiring project up for success.

Step-by-Step Cat6 Wall Fishing Preparation

1. Choose Wire Drop Locations
   Identify which rooms need Ethernet ports: bedrooms, offices, garages, patios, etc. List them out clearly on paper to avoid guesswork.
2. Select the Right Walls
   Always drop wires into interior walls. Avoid exterior walls due to fire stops. Also consider proximity to devices like TVs, PCs, or gaming consoles.
3. Decide Number of Drops Per Wall
   Don’t run just one cable—run at least two. Better yet, run three and use the third as a future backup or for expanding your network.
4. Determine Central Cable Termination Point
   All cables need to meet at a central hub—usually where your modem/router/switch is. Many newer homes include built-in network panels in closets or garages.
5. Calculate Cable Length
   Use this formula:
   • • Ceiling height × 2
   • • Add the horizontal distance to the hub
   • • Multiply by number of runs

   Example: 9 ft ceiling × 2 = 18 ft ? Add 25 ft span = 43 ft ? Multiply by 2 drops = 86 ft total needed for that room.

6. Pick the Right Cable Type
   Use Cat6 riser cable (CMR). It’s flexible, easier to bend, and simple to terminate. Avoid Cat5e unless cost is critical. Cat6A is higher performance but stiffer.
7. Practice Attic Safety
   Only go in the attic if you're comfortable. Walk on rafters only, wear a dust mask, bring extra lighting, and work in cooler months. Always let someone know you're up there in case of emergency.

Following these steps before starting your Ethernet installation will ensure a smoother, faster process—and help you avoid common DIY pitfalls.

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