Home Networking

[CDNProdigy]

Hi Everyone!

I just thought I would ask a general question to see who is currently using a network rack setup for your networking solutions.

I have found that having two personal computers along with three consoles, printers, a router, firewall and switches creates a major space issue for a computer desk. My three monitors alone can takes up my desk fairly quickly.

I thought I might finally migrate to a network rack to try and keep this all fairly organized.

I just thought I would ask.

Cheers!

[Ishar]

I used a rack back in the day when I was a hardware boxer (with 6 physical machines). I don't know if I would use it for that, though. You could just get one of the many wiring solutions for desks so that the cords are hidden. I use a CableBox (http://www.cableorganizer.com/blue-lounge-designs/cablebox/)in the living room, and it works well. I've been considering a WireMate (http://www.cableorganizer.com/Wiremate/) for the desk, but I haven't really felt the need. For me a rack solution took up additional space, not less, but with less equipment, your milage will probably vary.

As an side, why is all that on your desk? I keep the consoles with the TV in the living room, and have my networking equipment in the hallway closet. (well, I will when I get done running Cat6)

[CDNProdigy]

Thanks for the replay Ishar.

I never knew of the CableBox and WireMate that you mentioned. Thank you.

I have a dedicated room for my gaming hobby. (the wife demanded it I swear!) Going to a rack system taking up space would not be a problem.

My desk was big enough originally but I just upgraded from 1 monitor to three. So it was never really a problem until now.

Thank you for the advice and I'll consider what you mentioned.

[moosejaw]

I have some items that don't fit a rack real well, so I took an alternate solution. I mounted a large piece of plywood to the basement wall near my electrical service. Added a few outlets for the battery backups and mounted everything to that board.

I have a managed 24 port switch, cable modem, router, phone modem, and 3 HDHomerun Primes with 3 tuning adapters. I ran new cat6 for network jacks in the house. That is a lot of wires (and equipment to cool), so giving them their own space was important. Cooling should be a major consideration for your room. If you don't have another space for your equipment a window AC unit may be necessary.

Good luck with what ever you decide and always leave room for growth because you will never stop boxing. :)

[CDNProdigy]

Good luck with what ever you decide and always leave room for growth because you will never stop boxing. :)

Amen Moosejaw.