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Deciphering Color Codes for Network & Ethernet Cables


ethernet cables plugged in

Red, white, yellow, and blue. If you ever look at a bundle of wires, it’s likely to contain most of the colors of the rainbow. While it may seem random, these colors identify the specific function and role of each wire. While there is no established industry standard regarding which color should be assigned for each role, there is an unofficial acceptance of these delineations within the telecom industry.

At Corporate Technology Solutions, our professionals use the following guidelines when installing systems in your structure.

Ethernet Cable Color Guide

Ethernet cables are designed to facilitate speedier, more reliable data transmission within a wired network. As with all cables, ethernet cables are available in a wide range of colors, and the colors used can vary depending on who performs the installation.

It’s not uncommon to have different colored ethernet cables within the same building, especially when multiple installers are involved. Thus, while there is no established standard, the following are relatively consistent across the industry:

  • Grey: Grey ethernet cables indicate a standard ethernet connection, which is common in both residential and commercial networks.
  • Green: Green ethernet cables are used as a classification for crossover connections, i.e., those used to connect multiple computers or devices together.
  • Blue: Blue ethernet cables are used for terminal server connections. These connect multiple systems to a LAN network, thus alleviating the need to use a modem or other type of interface.
  • Yellow: Yellow ethernet cables indicate a “power over internet” connection. When paired with an ethernet twisted cable pair, they deliver a 30w current at the port level. 

Patch Cable Color Guide

Because there are a multitude of colors for patch cables, consistency is crucial to ensuring the stability and maintenance of your ethernet. While your systems may not comply with the recommended standard, it’s usually best to either remove the existing cables or simply stay with the assigned coding within your structure. While there is no universal standard for patch cable colors, they are published by ANSI/TIA with the following recommendations:

  • Grey: Standard ethernet connection
  • Black: Can be used as a general color option
  • Purple: Digital non-ethernet connections
  • Blue: Terminal server connections
  • Green: Crossover internet connections
  • Yellow: POE connections
  • Orange: Analog non-ethernet connections
  • Pink: Can be used as an additional color option
  • Red: IP cameras
  • White: can be used as an additional color option

Network Cable Color Guide

Continuity isn’t common with network cables. It’s quite common to find a broad range of solutions within commercial buildings. While ANSI/TIA has published a detailed standard for telecom infrastructure, that doesn’t mean it’s always been adhered to by every installer. That said, the following are the most common colors assigned for the following purposes:

  • Purple: Termination of cables from computers, LANS, multiplexers, and other common equipment
  • Green: Termination of network connections located on the customer’s side of the demarcation point
  • Yellow: Termination of auxiliary circuits and other circuits to include alarms, security systems, maintenance, etc.
  • Orange: Demarcation point
  • Blue: Horizontal cable used at the equipment room and TR point
  • Red: Termination of vital telephone systems
  • White: First-level backbone telecom media termination within the building where a main cross-connect is present
  • Grey: Second-level backbone telecom media termination within the building where a main cross-connect is present

Why Choose Us for Cabling Solutions in AZ?

The professionals at Corporate Technology Solutions are experts at installing structured solutions that enhance the performance and reliability of your systems. Whether you need enhanced speed, security, or capability, we have a broad range of options we can offer to give your business a competitive edge. We adhere to rigid safety and quality standards and guarantee your satisfaction with the cabling solutions we offer and the quality of our workmanship.

When you need cables installed in your commercial building, contact the experts at Corporate Technology Solutions to schedule a service appointment in Phoenix, Flagstaff, or Tucson today.

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