1. Cable Stress and Signal Degradation:
   When network cables are tightly secured with zip ties, there is a potential for excessive tension and stress on the cables. Over time, this strain can cause the cables to bend or kink, leading to signal degradation. High-frequency signals used in modern networking technologies, such as Gigabit Ethernet or even higher speeds, are particularly susceptible to attenuation and data loss when cables are improperly managed. This can result in reduced network performance, slower data transmission, and even intermittent connectivity issues.
2. Crosstalk and Interference:
   Proper cable management involves separating different types of cables to minimize crosstalk and electromagnetic interference (EMI). However, using zip ties to bundle cables tightly can inadvertently increase the chances of crosstalk and EMI. The close proximity of tightly bound cables can cause electromagnetic fields to overlap, leading to interference and signal distortion. This interference can disrupt data transmission, degrade network performance, and introduce errors in the network.
3. Difficulty in Troubleshooting and Maintenance:
   Effective troubleshooting is crucial in identifying and resolving network issues promptly. However, when cables are excessively secured with zip ties, it becomes challenging to isolate and replace individual cables. In the event of a faulty cable or a need for reconfiguration, the process of removing and re-securing zip ties can be time-consuming and may require extensive disconnection and reconnection of other cables. This increases the complexity of maintenance tasks, prolongs downtime, and can result in unnecessary disruptions to the entire network.
4. Restricted Scalability and Flexibility:
   Network infrastructures are constantly evolving, with new devices, equipment, and technologies being added or upgraded. The use of zip ties to tightly bundle cables can restrict the flexibility and scalability of the network. As new cables need to be integrated or existing cables need to be rearranged, the presence of zip ties can impede these changes. This limitation can hinder the network’s ability to adapt to future requirements and may necessitate costly and time-consuming re-cabling efforts.

Best Practices for Cable Management:
To mitigate the negative effects of zip ties on network cables, consider implementing the following best practices for cable management:

a. Velcro Cable Ties: Replace traditional zip ties with reusable Velcro cable ties. These ties allow for secure bundling while providing flexibility for adding or removing cables without damaging or stressing them.

b. Cable Raceways and Ducts: Utilize cable raceways or ducts to route and manage cables systematically. These solutions ensure proper separation of different cable types and reduce the risk of crosstalk and interference.

c. Cable Management Panels: Install cable management panels or racks that provide organized and structured cable routing. These panels not only enhance cable management but also facilitate easier troubleshooting and maintenance.

d. Cable Length Considerations: Avoid excessive cable lengths as they can contribute to clutter and increase the chances of cable damage. Opt for appropriate cable lengths to minimize slack and maintain neatness.

While often overlooked, cable management plays a crucial role in maintaining a robust and reliable network infrastructure. Using zip ties to manage network cables may seem like a convenient solution, but it can introduce various risks that affect the overall network performance. By adopting proper cable management practices, such as using Velcro cable ties, implementing raceways, and employing structured solutions, network

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On the other hand, MBps stands for “megabytes per second.” A megabyte is a larger unit of data storage or file size. It is equal to 8 megabits. Therefore, MBps measures the rate at which data can be transferred in millions of bytes per second.

The key distinction between Mbps and MBps is that Mbps refers to the speed at which data is transmitted or received in terms of bits, while MBps refers to the speed in terms of bytes. Since there are 8 bits in a byte, the speed in MBps is typically eight times slower than the speed in Mbps.

For example, if you have an internet connection speed of 100 Mbps, it means that you can transfer or download data at a rate of 100 megabits per second. In terms of MBps, the equivalent speed would be 12.5 MBps (100 Mbps divided by 8).

It’s important to note the distinction between the lowercase “b” for bits and the uppercase “B” for bytes when referring to data transfer speeds. Mbps is commonly used to describe internet connection speeds, while MBps is often used to indicate file transfer speeds or the speed at which data is being read from or written to storage devices.

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Wi-Fi has become an integral part of our daily lives, connecting us to the digital world. However, when multiple Wi-Fi networks coexist in close proximity, interference issues can arise, leading to degraded performance. One crucial aspect to consider in optimizing your Wi-Fi network is understanding and selecting the best Wi-Fi channel. In this article, we’ll delve into Wi-Fi channels, how to identify devices on different channels, and strategies to choose the optimal channel for improved network performance.

1. Understanding Wi-Fi Channels:
   Wi-Fi networks operate on specific radio frequencies, which are divided into multiple channels. These channels represent different segments of the available frequency spectrum and allow multiple networks to operate simultaneously without interfering with one another. In most regions, Wi-Fi networks typically use either the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequency bands.
3. Identifying Devices on Different Channels:
   To identify the devices operating on different Wi-Fi channels, you can utilize various tools and methods:
   a. Wi-Fi Analyzer Apps: Install a Wi-Fi analyzer app on your smartphone or tablet. These apps scan the surrounding Wi-Fi networks, display their channels, signal strengths, and provide insights into the crowded or overlapping channels.
   b. Router Administration Interface: Access your router’s administration interface through a web browser. Look for the Wi-Fi settings or wireless configuration section, where you can typically find information about connected devices, their signal strengths, and the channels they are using.
5. Choosing the Best Wi-Fi Channel:
   Selecting the most suitable Wi-Fi channel can significantly enhance your network’s performance. Here’s how you can go about it:
   a. Analyze Channel Congestion: Using the information obtained from the Wi-Fi analyzer app or router administration interface, identify the channels with the least congestion and interference. Look for channels with fewer overlapping networks or devices.
   b. Channel Selection for 2.4 GHz Band: In the 2.4 GHz band, channels overlap with each other, causing interference. Channels 1, 6, and 11 are considered non-overlapping and are generally recommended for optimal performance. Selecting one of these channels can reduce interference from neighboring networks.
   c. Channel Selection for 5 GHz Band: The 5 GHz band offers more non-overlapping channels, providing better opportunities for interference-free connectivity. Explore channels that have minimal or no interference from neighboring networks.
   d. Automatic Channel Selection: Many modern routers offer an automatic channel selection feature. Enabling this feature allows the router to automatically switch to the least congested channel, optimizing performance dynamically.
7. Migrating Interference:
   In addition to selecting the appropriate channel, consider these interference-reducing strategies:
   a. Positioning and Placement: Optimize the placement of your Wi-Fi router, ensuring it is away from physical obstructions and other electronic devices that can cause interference.
   b. Update Firmware: Keep your router’s firmware up to date. Manufacturers often release firmware updates that can improve performance, address security vulnerabilities, and optimize channel selection algorithms.
   c. Band Steering: If your router supports dual-band technology, consider enabling band steering. This feature automatically guides devices to connect to the less crowded and faster 5 GHz band instead of the congested 2.4 GHz band.
9. Regular Network Monitoring:
   Monitor your Wi-Fi network periodically to ensure optimal performance. Perform channel scans and check for any changes in interference levels or new networks that may affect your network’s performance. Adjust your channel selection accordingly if required.

Optimizing your Wi-Fi network by selecting the best channel can significantly improve performance, minimize interference, and enhance your overall internet experience. By understanding Wi-Fi channels, utilizing tools to identify devices on different channels.

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In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, businesses and organizations across various industries are turning to cloud-based solutions to streamline their operations and enhance efficiency. One such area where the cloud has made a significant impact is in Building Management Systems (BMS). In this article, we will delve into the advantages of cloud-based BMS systems and how they are revolutionizing the way buildings are managed and operated.

1. Scalability and Flexibility:
   One of the key advantages of cloud-based BMS systems is their scalability and flexibility. Traditional on-premises BMS systems often require significant upfront investments in hardware and infrastructure. In contrast, cloud-based BMS solutions allow organizations to scale their operations easily and adapt to changing needs. Whether it’s managing a single building or a complex portfolio of properties, cloud-based BMS systems can accommodate growth without the hassle of hardware upgrades or expensive installations.
3. Remote Monitoring and Control:
   Cloud-based BMS systems enable remote monitoring and control, offering building managers and operators the ability to access and manage their buildings from anywhere at any time. This flexibility empowers facility managers to monitor energy consumption, HVAC systems, lighting, and other critical parameters remotely, resulting in improved operational efficiency, reduced costs, and quicker response times to any issues or emergencies.
5. Data Analytics and Insights:
   Cloud-based BMS platforms provide powerful data analytics and reporting capabilities, allowing organizations to gain valuable insights into their building’s performance and energy usage patterns. With real-time data collection and analysis, building managers can identify areas for optimization, make informed decisions, and implement energy-saving strategies. These insights can lead to significant cost savings, improved sustainability, and enhanced occupant comfort and productivity.
7. Increased Energy Efficiency:
   Energy efficiency is a top priority for organizations seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and lower operational costs. Cloud-based BMS systems offer advanced energy management features, such as predictive analytics and machine learning algorithms, to optimize energy consumption and identify opportunities for improvement. By monitoring and controlling energy-intensive systems, such as HVAC, lighting, and equipment, organizations can achieve substantial energy savings and achieve their sustainability goals.
9. Enhanced Collaboration and Integration:
   Cloud-based BMS platforms foster collaboration and integration across various stakeholders involved in building management. With centralized access to data and shared dashboards, facility managers, maintenance teams, and other stakeholders can collaborate seamlessly, leading to faster issue resolution, improved communication, and streamlined workflows. Furthermore, cloud-based BMS systems can integrate with other smart building technologies and IoT devices, creating a connected ecosystem that enhances efficiency and automation.
11. Cost Savings and Maintenance:
    Cloud-based BMS solutions offer cost advantages over traditional on-premises systems. By eliminating the need for extensive hardware installations, organizations can reduce upfront costs and ongoing maintenance expenses. Additionally, cloud-based systems often operate on a subscription-based model, providing predictable costs and eliminating the need for costly software upgrades. The cloud-based approach also minimizes downtime due to system failures, as backups and redundancies are typically handled by the service provider.
13. Cloud-based Building Management Systems are transforming the way buildings are managed and operated, offering organizations unparalleled scalability, flexibility, and remote access. The advantages of cloud-based BMS systems extend beyond energy efficiency and cost savings, empowering organizations to optimize building performance, enhance collaboration, and achieve their sustainability goals. As technology continues to advance, embracing cloud-based BMS solutions will become an increasingly essential strategy for organizations seeking to leverage the power of the cloud and drive operational excellence in their buildings.

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Enhancing Senior Living with Comprehensive and Affordable Technology Solutions

As seniors age, they face various challenges that can impact their quality of life. One way to address these issues is through the integration of modern technology solutions that cater specifically to their unique needs. Hang My TV is dedicated to providing seniors with comprehensive and cost-effective technology services, including internet, phone, TV, intercom, and security systems. Our goal is to create a comfortable and secure living environment for seniors, while also reducing their monthly expenses.

1. Improved Communication and Connectivity:
   Our VoIP phone system and high-speed internet services ensure that seniors stay connected with their loved ones and have easy access to essential services, such as telehealth appointments. Our intercom system further enhances communication by enabling seniors to effortlessly communicate with visitors and other residents in their community.

1. Enhanced Safety and Security:
   Hang My TV’s security solutions help seniors feel safe in their living environment. Our intercom and access control systems ensure that only authorized individuals can enter the building, reducing the risk of theft and unwanted guests. Additionally, our temperature monitoring solution and uLc building alarm system can help prevent potential freeze-ups of sprinkler or water lines, reducing the likelihood of costly insurance claims.

1. User-Friendly Entertainment Options:
   Our affordable TV packages provide seniors with a wide variety of entertainment options, without breaking the bank. Our TV service, along with our intercom and internet solutions, allows seniors to enjoy their favorite shows, movies, and online content with ease.

1. Support and Training:
   We understand that seniors may face challenges when adapting to new technologies. That’s why Hang My TV provides comprehensive onboarding and training support to ensure that seniors can confidently use our systems. We create customized onboarding videos tailored to each building, helping residents navigate their new technology with ease.

1. Cost Savings and Flexibility:
   Hang My TV’s all-in-one solutions help seniors save money by providing affordable alternatives to traditional cable, phone, and security services. Our flexible financing options, such as payment plans, long-term contract discounts, and lease-to-own agreements, make it easier for seniors and their condo boards to invest in these essential services.

Hang My TV’s comprehensive technology solutions are designed to enhance the lives of seniors by addressing their unique challenges and needs. By providing cost-effective, user-friendly, and secure services, we are committed to helping seniors enjoy a more comfortable and connected living experience.

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Introduction to the Onboarding Process

a. Overview of the integrated systems and applications

b. Benefits of a smooth onboarding experience

Understanding the Integrated Systems

a. In-depth look at the various systems in use

b. How each system contributes to the overall experience

Getting Started with Applications

a. Identifying and installing essential applications

b. Setting up user accounts and profiles

Setting Up Secure Passwords

a. The importance of strong and unique passwords

b. Tips for creating and remembering secure passwords

c. Using password managers for added security

Multi-Factor Authentication and Security Measures

a. Understanding multi-factor authentication

b. Setting up and using multi-factor authentication on your accounts

c. Additional security measures to protect your information

Customizing Your User Experience

a. Personalizing system settings and preferences

b. Organizing and managing applications for easy access

Exploring Advanced Features and Integrations

a. Utilizing advanced features of the integrated systems

b. Connecting and integrating applications for seamless functionality

Troubleshooting Common Issues

a. Identifying and resolving common problems

b. Accessing support resources and documentation

Ongoing Maintenance and Updates

a. Keeping your systems and applications up-to-date

b. Understanding the importance of regular maintenance

Q&A and Hands-On Practice Session

a. Addressing participants’ questions and concerns

b. Guided practice with setting up accounts, passwords, and system configurations

Course Wrap-Up and Evaluation

a. Recap of the course content

b. Course evaluation and feedback

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The cost of internet access can be a significant expense for many seniors, especially when considering long-term contracts. With a myriad of providers and plans, it’s essential to compare the costs and benefits to determine the best value for your needs. In this article, we’ll explore the pricing of two popular internet providers, SaskTel and Shaw Cable, and discuss how our managed network solution can offer seniors a more cost-effective alternative with additional benefits.

SaskTel’s InfiNet150 Plan: SaskTel offers a special deal for their InfiNet150 plan, which includes an introductory rate of $44.97 per month for the first three months. After this period, the price increases to $89.95 per month for the remaining 33 months of the contract. This amounts to a total cost of $3,103 over three years for the InfiNet150 plan.

Shaw Cable’s Fiber Plus 75 Plan: Shaw Cable presents their Fiber Plus 75 plan with a two-year promotional offer. The cost is $79 per month for the first 24 months, totaling $1,896 for the initial two years. In the third year, the monthly fee increases to $95, resulting in an additional $1,140 for that year. The total cost for Shaw Cable’s Fiber Plus 75 plan over three years is $3,036.

Our Managed Network Solution: Our goal is to provide seniors with an affordable, high-quality managed network that not only matches the performance of the aforementioned plans but also comes at a fraction of the cost. With our advanced communications system, you can enjoy a reliable internet connection and take advantage of additional services tailored to help seniors stay connected.

Benefits for Seniors: Our managed network solution offers more than just cost savings. We understand the unique needs of seniors and have designed our services to help them make the most of their internet experience. With our advanced communications system, seniors have access to support and resources geared towards enhancing their digital skills and connectivity.

Conclusion: When comparing internet plans, it’s crucial to consider not only the cost but also the value and benefits offered. Our managed network solution provides seniors with a more affordable option that doesn’t compromise on quality or service. By choosing our solution, seniors can enjoy a reliable internet connection and additional support, all while saving money compared to traditional providers like SaskTel and Shaw Cable.

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They anxiously awaited for Rosetta to wake up. After a grueling 18 minutes, Rosetta finally sent a signal—and tweeted “Hello world!” Everyone let out a sigh of relief.

What had it been doing for those 18 minutes? Power cycling. Twice. Rosetta was programmed to reboot itself in case of a situation like this. The systems weren’t syncing up with each other, which could have been disastrous. But in the end, it was nothing a couple reboots couldn’t fix—even though there were millions of dollars on the line. Power cycling saved the day.

So next time you call up your ISP to ask what the heck is going on, don’t be surprised if the first thing they ask you is: “Have you tried turning it off and on again?” There’s a reason why this phrase has become the standard question for tech problems big and small, and it’s not because it’s great meme fodder.

It’s because rebooting, restarting, and just plain “turning it off and on again” will, in many cases, actually get you back up and running.

Power Cycling 101

“Turning it off and on again,” or power cycling for short, essentially just means disconnecting something—like your modem or router—from its power source.

Why it works is less about solving an actual problem, and more about providing a convenient work-around for you, the end-user. The actual reason why you can’t, say, connect to your WiFi is “likely hard to reproduce, diagnose and fix,” as Philip Remaker recently explained on Quora.

Power cycling works, Remaker goes on to say, because computers and modems and routers and even cellphones are all massive collections of “state machines”—they contain a wide variety of programs that need to run to generate your operating system. Usually those processes will cooperate, but occasionally “some combination of states will toss the system into unexpected array.” When you reset, you’re pulling the metaphorical fire alarm, ending every single process, and returning the system to a “known, base state.”

But, What Does That Have To Do With My Internet?

When it comes to your cable modem or fiber ONT, there are many processes happening behind the scenes that can break down with time. The two most popular technologies for internet access delivery today are DOCSIS, which is used to deliver coax based cable services, and GPON, which is used to deliver fiber based services. Both DOCSIS and GPON operate on a point-to-multipoint system. In practical terms, this means that on your ISP’s side there may be one device on the back-end talking to dozens of customers just like you. We’ll refer to this device as the “Operator”.

Because the operator has to talk to multiple modems at any one time, both DOCSIS and GPON allocate time-slots to each end user and send instructions to only upload data when it’s their turn. Unfortunately, as modems come online or offline, it’s possible for those time-slots to collide with each other. When that happens, it may appear as if your internet is down, because the Operator didn’t know to interpret the data it was sent.

Similarly, the Operator is expecting your data to come in a certain format. If, for whatever reason, the connection between your home/office and the Operator becomes interrupted, even if for a second, that data format might become corrupt. All ISPs are different, but when the Operator receives malformed data, it might quarantine your modem. This means it will reject all data from that modem until it’s restarted and clean data is exchanged.

Another possible cause of connectivity issues is Ethernet errors. Ethernet errors occur when your computer and/or modem begin to discard data being sent to one another. Devices look to each other to determine how fast they’re able to transmit data (speed), and whether or not they can send/receive data at the same time (duplexing). If there is an Ethernet error, an easy way to restart that connection is to unplug the cable from both ends, or simply restarting your modem or router!

Others have come up with more creative ways to solve the power cycling problem.

How Do You Do It?

In most cases, it’s as simple as unplugging the device, waiting 30 seconds, and plugging it back in. If you’re renting a modem from your ISP, you can probably find a tutorial on their site that teaches you what button’s what, in case you’re curious.

But there’s one important thing to remember: reboot, don’t reset! There might be a reset button on your machine, but don’t confuse the two. If you reset, your modem will default to the factory settings. All your customized settings, like your network name and password will be erased, and the reboot will take up even more of your time.

Some people even have even gone to the extreme of buying a timer to plug into your outlet that will program the power to disconnect to the device. For example, a timer might go off and power cycle devices from 4:15 to 4:16 am, when no one’s at the office and using the connection (hopefully).

What If That’s Not the Problem?

Of course, rebooting your modem isn’t a cure-all. Recurring issues with your connectivity usually imply something more than a power cycle is required, but it can be tricky to diagnose exactly what the problem is. Is the problem on your end? Or the ISPs?

For example, there might be a power outage on your ISP’s end, or a problem with connectivity in your building. This summer, Comcast issued a $5 refund to any user in California who asked for one because of a three-hour Monday blackout. The failure, it turns out, was with a single piece of hardware on Comcast’s end. No matter how many times people rebooted their modems, they were out of luck.

Of course, there are still additional problems that could be happening, like weather, or a problem with the device itself. But most of the time, it’s a highly technical problem with one of the systems inside the modem. You could spend a really long time on the phone with an IT person to figure out what it is. Or you could just reboot.

reprinted from pilotfiber.com

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Picking the right Ethernet cable for your home or business network is important. Not only does cable type and category affect speed and overall performance, but it can have a drastic effect on the quality of your connection. While wireless networks are far more prone to interference than wired ones, the wrong sorts of cables can lead to a connection that is far from optimal in every sense.

Two of the most popular Ethernet cables are Cat5e and Cat6, but which is better? Costs are roughly comparable between the two, and though both can feature shielding, one has broader and grander options for protecting your network connection quality than the other.

Which is faster, Cat5e or Cat6?

Cat5e and Cat6 cables are both twisted pair cables that support the same RJ45 end-connectors for home and business networking. You’ll find certain acronyms are commonly used to describe both of them, including “TP” for twisted pair, “S” for shielded, and “U” for unshielded. But it’s important to keep an eye out for these designations so that you can make an informed purchase, whether you’re buying from Cable Matters, or elsewhere.

Cat5e vs Cat6 performance is an intriguing debate, because at their maximum lengths of 100 meters, there isn’t much in it. At that length, both cable types support 1Gbps transfer speeds, which is more than enough for most home networks. However, if you’re a high-bandwidth user or looking to kit out your office with faster connections, Cat6 does offer greater bandwidth at shorter cable lengths – though they’re still far longer than your average HDMI cable, for example.

At anywhere up to 55 meters, Cat6 cables can operate at up to 10Gbps. For almost all home users, that would be complete overkill. But if you need a network that’s fast and fluid with plenty of bandwidth for heaps of users transferring data around at the same time, then Cat6 cables might be the way to go.

Just make sure they aren’t too long, or you won’t be able to enjoy all the performance benefits.

Cat6 is less susceptible to interference, but don’t discount Cat5e

As the newer of the two standards, it’s perhaps no surprise that Cat6 cables typically offer better insulation for their internal wires, as well as enhanced performance. Cat5e improved its shielding over the older Cat5 standard, but Cat6 must adhere to stricter standards for crosstalk and external noise mitigation than Cat5e.

Cat6 cables achieve greater performance standards in a few different ways. The most common is the use of a “spline.” That is effectively a longitudinal separator that isolates the individual wires, which further protects against crosstalk between the 4 wire pairs. It also has the added benefit of making Cat6 cables more durable and prevents stretching. That can make them more rigid, though, so Cat6 cables with splines aren’t necessarily the best for the tightest of turns.

Some Cat6 cables use individual shielding of the internal wires, and a shield or foil around the entire wire itself.

These differing techniques are sometimes used individually, and sometimes in conjunction, for greater and lesser shielding. This is typically denoted by the name or acronym applied to the cable, so look for the “S” in its name if shielding is important to you.

When it comes to Cat5e vs.Cat6, the newer Cat6 standard offers better internal interference mitigation across the board, but some cables are better than others. For maximum performance, look out for Cat6 cables with splines and shielding included, often meeting Cat6a standards.

Cat5e is fine for most, but Cat6 is still better

Whether you’re setting up a home network, replacing old cables, or looking to enhance your workplace LAN, Cat6 cables offer more. They can support faster data transfers, are typically more durable, and they offer better options for insulation against crosstalk and internal noise. The Cat5e vs. Cat6 debate is one that’s easily won by Cat6 if you focus entirely on features.

That said, not all networks can support the higher speed of Cat6 cables. If your devices don’t support 10Gb networking, using a Cat 6 cable won’t be any faster than Cat5e. Your router needs to support it too, to take full advantage, so make sure that your network is up to scratch if you want the full Cat6 experience.

But Cat6 is entirely backwards compatible. So even if you can’t get the full speed of Cat6, you can still use the cables. They’ll just run at a slower rate. They will still enjoy the improved shielding, though.

So, if you’re wondering which to buy, Cat5e vs. Cat6, Cat6 is the better choice, especially if you want to future proof your network. Even if your network can’t support above Gigabit speeds now, it may in the future.

Reprinted from https://www.cablematters.com/blog/Networking/cat5e-vs-cat6

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