Setting the house up with 1GB Ethernet project

[Gimpymoo]

I have the need for four rooms with 2 x 1GB connections running to each.

Have been wanting to do this for a while but the time has now come. I am in no rush and have no plans to do anything till the weather is warmer (Outside drilling, cable routing).

I have a basic understanding of networking but would really like input from those who are experienced or whom themselves have completed such a task and any tips they can share for both the required hardware/components and the physical installation.

Stability is the primary goal, I do not want to skimp and end up with a half ***** job, it needs to be good and last a long time.

It needs to look tidy too, do not want cables hanging out of walls So recommendations for wall fittings (internal/external) will be welcomed.

One snag, the switch will most likely need to go in the lounge so need a way to maintain function without it being too intrusive (if possible).

The reasons for doing this are many. There will internal network traffic relating to video/audio content as well as a centralised Steam cache server for the house as well as gaming traffic across LAN. I also need the ability to manage QOS as effectively as possible.

Am sure I will have more questions as I think more about it.

Thanks.

 

[Gimpymoo]

Thank you for the replies.

Some good stuff in the links, thanks bledd.

If running 3 or 4 connections, any way other than to run 4 seperate cables to each room.

Because the cables will be external, am worried it may look a little unsightly.

Looking around, faceplates seem to come in 2 or 4, so may as well run 4 to each room. Am I right in thinking a 4 port faceplate will fit to a standard UK dual back box?

 

[Gimpymoo]

One run is to a room on the ground floor at the rear of the house. External would be much easier.

The other 3 runs will be upstairs.

If going external, I just need to out and up and in if that makes sense with one run going to the front of the house.

 

[Gimpymoo]

Any benefit (forseeable or otherwise) for using Cat6a over cat6? Better shielding?

Any advantages if using for HDMI over CAT for example?