What you need to buy

Networking is the backbone for PoE cameras, door stations, access readers, indoor monitors, and WiFi. Buy these pieces, then pull cable.

  1. PoE switch when you have more devices than free PoE ports, or you are mixing cameras with door stations and access points.
  2. Cat 6 cable — bulk box for long runs back to the switch or recorder. Premade patch cables for short hops in a cabinet.
  3. Connectors (RJ45 / Pass-through) and a crimp or punch-down kit if you terminate your own ends.
  4. WiFi access points when phones, indoor stations, and computers need wireless. Not a substitute for a wired camera or door station.
  5. Wireless bridge when you need a second building, barn, or gate without a long trench.
  6. Cabinet when the recorder, switch, and drives should sit together, locked, off the floor.

House, shop, office, or plant — same parts. Start with the switch and cable, then add WiFi or a bridge only if you need them.

Shop networking · Shop switches · How to build your network · When you need a switch

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