3 ms·
First, fiber rules out PoE, which is one of the major advantages to a wired network to begin with. Devices like APs, cameras, and phones will need local power,
by jcrawfordor 3y ago
First, fiber rules out PoE, which is one of the major advantages to a wired network to begin with. Devices like APs, cameras, and phones will need local power, which is going to add a lot of expense and/or installation complexity. In most installations today power delivery is one of the main purposes of network cabling.
You'll also need either fiber interfaces or media converters, which besides cost is an installation complexity. It'll add another thing you need power for and more equipment to conceal (or leave visible...) at each AP. Even assuming all of your devices are all full-on desktop computers I think the higher price of fiber NICs will eat much of your savings.
- vvanders 3y agoPoE is awesome, I've been using it for years but it still feels like the future when I plug in a device and it boots up with power+data. I just ran a couple runs to an in-wall AP + 2 1gbe port(w/ one PoE) and it's so awesome to have that all done with one cable.
- eru 3y agoBtw, instead of PoE, you can also look into ethernet-over-powerlines. That way you can re-use the power cables you already have in your home.