Extend network cable - how it works

There are many reasons to extend a network cable. Regardless of whether the LAN cable in the new apartment is too short or whether it is not enough for the new desk - we will show you how to solve the problem.

Extend network cable via coupling

The easiest way to extend a LAN cable is by coupling:

• To do this, plug the adapter between two network cables. The advantage of this method is that you do not have to worry about shielding the cable. This means that the LAN cable is protected against external interference and the transmission speed does not drop.
• LAN couplings like the one in the picture are available on Amazon for less than 5 euros (plus shipping).

Extend network cable via LAN switch

• A switch works like a coupling, only you can connect several network cables to it. This is ideal if you want to connect a computer and a printer to the network, for example.
• LAN switches such as the TP-Link TL-SF1005D are available on Amazon for around 10 euros.

PowerLAN takes your network to other rooms

PowerLAN is a good solution, especially if several rooms are to be connected to a network and WLAN is out of the question.

• With this technology, the existing electrical installation of the building is used for data transmission. The power cable becomes a network cable using a PowerLAN adapter.
• The TP-Link TL-PA4010PKIT is available on Amazon for around 40 euros.
• You can also check out our leaderboard for power LAN adapters. There we go into detail about the advantages and disadvantages of the individual devices.

Alternative: longer network cable

Buying a longer LAN cable is the safest method. Longer network cables are also available for little money. For example, a 20 meter cable on Amazon costs around 15 euros.

Alternative: WLAN router

If you want to connect your laptop to the internet, it is advisable to consider a wireless router. This has the advantage that you are no longer dependent on a cable, can easily connect multiple devices and the extension of a LAN cable is no longer necessary. We have tested some WiFi routers for you and summarized the results in a leaderboard.

In the next article, we will explain more about PowerLAN.