How to test network wiring - software?

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I am creating a hard wired network throughout the house. I've currently got about 16 Cat5e cables to terminate. They all feed to a central point in the loft I am bound to mess up some of the connections so I was wondering how best to test the wiring. Is there a software programme or something i could download?
 
Basic testers just check that the wires are connected to the correct pins. There's no point spending very much.

You'd have to spend a lot of money to get a 'real' cable tester. It would probably be cheaper to have the cabling installed professionally.
 
Thanks guys. I see you can also get them on the Bay for under £3. Although I could rig something up myself I suppose they are easier - though maybe I shouldn't bother unless I have issues if it is just continuity testing. They don't even appear to check resistance (have I got a good connection) - just open/short circuit. I am surprised the PC can't test more comprehensively.
 
Some network adapters, and some managed switches, do have cable testing capabilities. It's unlikely to be a feature available with the normal on board network adapters.
 
Well if you plug it in and port doesnt light up.. You did it wrong! :p. On a more serious note, can pick up an RJ45 cable tester pretty cheap from auction sites and other ones :)
 
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