How to Run an Ethernet Cable From the Basement to Upstairs

With the advent of wireless technologies, computer users have been able to set up computers throughout a building without the use of bulky Ethernet cables. However, there are instances when hardwired Ethernet cables are required. A professional can be called in to run Ethernet through your house but the cost is often high. Use a few basic tools and techniques to run an Ethernet cable from one floor to the next, as described by Family Education, saving on the cost of professional installation.

How to Run Ethernet Cable Through House

Measure the distance between the devices that will use the Ethernet cable. The Ethernet cable is going to run from one device, such as a computer to another device. The Ethernet cable is run along the walls and baseboards, as well as between floors. Measure the length of all walls and baseboards that the cable will come in contact with. Add an extra 10 feet to the overall measurement to allow for a miscalculation in the overall measurements, especially if you're trying to avoid running your Ethernet cable through a wall.

Locate an access point between floors. The cable will go through the upper floor and into the basement at a point closest to the device’s location on the lower level. Find a location in the corner of the upper room or along the upper room’s baseboard.

Choose a location as close to the basement wall as possible. Ideally, the location should be directly above the location of the device being set up in the basement. Avoid locations where there is wiring, such as overhead lighting or light switches. Turn off all electrical power to avoid problems should the drill come in contact with live wiring.

Drill through the floor using a ¾-inch drill bit. Hold the drill at a 90-degree angle to the floor. After drilling through the flooring and subfloor, pull the drill from the hole and remove the drill bit. Attach a 12- to 16-inch extension to the drill, reattaching the ¾-inch drill bit to the extension's end. Place the extension and drill bit into the hole. Maintaining the drill at a 90-degree angle, drill through the ceiling below. Stop when the drill cuts through the lower room's ceiling.

Mount the Ethernet cable. Using cable mounts, run the cable along the baseboards, starting on the upper level. Cable mounts have a clip that holds the cable in place and a built-in nail that attaches the mount to the baseboard’s surface. Place the mounts every 4 feet. Position the Ethernet cable into the mount and attach it to the wall. Continue until the opening between floors is reached.

Thread the cable through the hole. Straighten out a wire coat hanger. Tape the Ethernet cable along the hanger’s length. Slip the hanger and cable through the hole in the floor and ceiling below. Go down to the lower level and pull the cable through the hole.

Mount the cable to the basement walls. Use cable mounts to attach the cable along the wall, down to the baseboard. Place the mounts 4 feet apart. Connect the Ethernet cable to the devices and the project is finished.