5 Cable Management Mistakes & Fixes

• Joyce Gamil
• • January 29, 2025
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Have you ever walked into your office and felt like the cables were plotting against you? Tangled cords, messy setups, and poorly managed wiring aren’t just an eyesore, they can cause real problems for your business. What might seem like a minor inconvenience today can turn into a serious productivity issue tomorrow, costing you time, money, and patience. As businesses in Maine rely more on technology, from networking equipment and desktops to security systems and printers, the importance of a well-organized cable infrastructure can’t be overstated.

Think of your office cables like the arteries of your business operations. They quietly power and connect your technology, keeping your systems running smoothly. When those connections are sloppy, tangled, or overloaded, it’s like clogging those arteries and your business suffers as a result. Mismanaged cables not only look unprofessional to clients and staff but can also pose safety risks, hinder troubleshooting efforts, and increase the chances of costly downtime.

Still, many small and mid-sized businesses push cable organization to the bottom of their to-do list. It’s easy to think, “I’ll deal with it later,” especially when everything seems to be working just fine. But later often turns into never, until something fails at the worst possible moment. It might be a server that unexpectedly goes offline because someone tripped on a loose cord, or a critical device that stops functioning due to a hidden unplugged cable. These mishaps are avoidable with a little proactive planning.

In Maine, where businesses must sometimes deal with seasonal challenges like moisture and freezing temperatures, cable management takes on an added layer of importance. Improperly selected or exposed cables can deteriorate faster in harsh environments, increasing your long-term costs and causing unexpected system failures. Beyond the environmental risks, modern offices often face cramped spaces, complex networking setups, and multiple users needing access to the same ports and power supplies. All of which that can amplify cable chaos if not addressed properly.

The good news? You don’t need a complete tech overhaul to make a big difference. There are simple, cost-effective steps you can take right now to prevent cable clutter from becoming a serious operational problem. Whether you’re operating from a home office, a dental clinic, a retail storefront, or a multi-floor corporate space, organizing your cable infrastructure can lead to measurable improvements in performance, reliability, and peace of mind.

That’s why we’ve put together this list of the top five cable management mistakes we see Maine businesses make and how to fix them like a pro. These aren’t theoretical tips pulled from a generic guide. They’re real-world insights based on what we’ve encountered while supporting local businesses across a wide range of industries. We’ll walk you through practical fixes that any team can implement, whether you’re tackling a tangle under one desk or rethinking your entire server room.

At Ekim IT Solutions, we believe cable management is foundational to a healthy IT ecosystem. We’ve seen first-hand how clean, organized systems can improve not just technical performance, but overall workplace morale. People work better in spaces that feel efficient and in control and that starts with the basics.

So if your cords are out of control, or if you’re just looking to tighten things up before they become a problem, read on. We’re here to help you take control of your tech environment, starting with the cables right beneath your feet.

Mistake #1: Ignoring Cable Clutter Until It Becomes a Hazard

One of the most common, and most dangerous, mistakes businesses make is ignoring cable clutter until it becomes a full-blown hazard. At first, that nest of cords behind the reception desk might seem like a minor issue. But over time, those wires can become tangled, frayed, or even create tripping risks. The longer they go unmanaged, the higher the chances of a costly problem, whether it’s a fried piece of equipment or a workplace injury.

Leaving cable management as an afterthought means your team is forced to work around messes, guess which cable goes where, and waste precious time tracking down connection problems. It also makes future upgrades or troubleshooting more difficult since no one wants to dig through a pile of cords just to find the right plug.

The fix is straightforward: be proactive. Start by conducting a visual audit of all your workspace and server room wiring. Are any cables crossing walkways or hanging loosely from desks? Are power strips overloaded and tangled behind furniture? These are warning signs that need immediate attention. Installing simple solutions like cable trays under desks, wall-mounted raceways, and Velcro straps can go a long way in containing the mess.

For long-term success, implement a routine cable inspection schedule once a quarter is a good place to start. During these checks, confirm that wires remain secure, labeled, and untangled. Document your setup with photos or diagrams so future changes are easier to manage.

By staying ahead of cable clutter, you’ll create a safer environment, reduce downtime, and foster a more professional-looking workplace. Think of it as preventive care for your IT system, and peace of mind for everyone who walks through your office door.

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Mistake #2: Using the Wrong Cables for the Job

Using the wrong cable for the task at hand is one of the most easily overlooked, yet critically important, mistakes a business can make. From Ethernet cables that can’t handle the required bandwidth to power cords not rated for your equipment, mismatched cables compromise your tech’s performance, safety, and longevity.

In Maine, the risk multiplies due to seasonal extremes like frigid winters, moisture buildup, and electrical fluctuations. A cable that works well in a climate-controlled server room may deteriorate or even fail completely when exposed to the elements in less protected environments. This is especially concerning for businesses operating in older buildings where wiring standards may be inconsistent or outdated.

Incorrect cabling can also affect signal strength, lead to data transmission errors, or even short-circuit your hardware. We’ve seen cases where businesses bought bulk generic cables online, thinking they were saving money, only to spend far more replacing broken devices or dealing with network downtime later. Not all cables are created equal, and cost-cutting here can lead to bigger expenses down the line.

The fix? Audit your cable inventory and usage. Are you using Cat5 cables when your network demands Cat6 or Cat7? Are your power cords properly rated for high-usage appliances? Do your USB hubs meet power delivery specs for your charging stations or equipment? If you’re not sure, don’t guess, consult with a professional. An IT audit can assess your infrastructure and recommend the right cables for each job based on your environment and usage.

Label cables clearly, not just for identification but also for confirming compliance with standards. Check packaging and manufacturer specifications before purchasing. Opt for shielded cables in high-interference areas, and weather-rated cables for outdoor or semi-exposed setups.

Finally, standardize purchasing and installation procedures across your organization. When every employee uses the same best-practice setup, it reduces errors, improves performance, and makes maintenance simpler.

By using the right cables in the right places, you’re not only optimizing your network, you’re protecting your investment, improving uptime, and laying the groundwork for future tech upgrades.

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Mistake #3: Forgetting to Label Cables

When your business technology includes dozens or even hundreds of cords, ports, and power sources, keeping track of what connects to what can quickly turn into a nightmare. This is especially true when cables aren’t labeled. Whether you’re trying to unplug a single monitor or reroute a server, the lack of proper identification often leads to confusion, delays, and costly mistakes.

The truth is, unlabeled cables can slow down everything from device setup to emergency troubleshooting. Imagine your internet goes down, and you need to quickly reset the modem. Without labels, your IT team (or an external tech support provider) may spend critical minutes unplugging and replugging cords, guessing which one belongs to what device. Multiply that kind of inefficiency across all your office equipment, and you’re looking at hours of unnecessary labor each year.

Proper cable labeling isn’t just about convenience, it’s about operational efficiency. It enables faster installations, easier repairs, and smarter upgrades. For businesses in Maine, where tech disruptions can have major financial impacts (especially during peak seasons), that time saved is money saved.

The fix? Label every cord no matter how small the device or simple the connection. Use durable, legible labels with clear identifiers like device names, port numbers, or function (e.g., “Printer Power,” “Router Ethernet”). Color-coded cable ties or sleeves can also help quickly distinguish between types (power vs. data, critical vs. secondary, etc.).

Keep a digital or printed diagram of your office setup with a corresponding cable map, especially in network closets or shared spaces. This helps eliminate guesswork and ensures anyone accessing the equipment can do so confidently and efficiently.

As your business grows or updates its technology, be consistent with labeling standards. Train staff to label new cords as they are added, and include label checks in your quarterly cable inspections. This small habit has a big payoff over time.

With just a little effort up front, proper labeling saves hours down the road, minimizes the risk of unplugging the wrong device, and keeps your IT infrastructure clear, functional, and scalable.

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Mistake #4: Overloading Power Strips and Outlets

Plugging multiple devices into a single power strip might seem like a quick fix, but it’s a shortcut that can lead to major problems. Overloaded power strips are a common culprit behind electrical fires, equipment damage, and mysterious tech outages that leave teams scrambling. In busy offices where multiple computers, monitors, printers, chargers, and other peripherals are needed daily, it’s easy to underestimate the total load being placed on one outlet.

In Maine, where winter often means additional power draws for heating and lighting, the danger increases. Old buildings may have limited or outdated electrical wiring that can’t handle modern loads, increasing the risk of shorts and surges. Many small business owners don’t realize that even high-quality power strips have a maximum capacity and exceeding it can have costly consequences.

The fix? Start by identifying how many devices are plugged into each power strip or outlet. Look up the power ratings of your equipment and compare them to the strip’s maximum load, typically printed on its back or bottom. If you’re close to or exceeding that limit, it’s time to redistribute the load.

Spread devices across multiple circuits if possible, and avoid daisy-chaining power strips together. Upgrade to commercial-grade surge protectors or uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) for critical systems, especially in areas like server rooms or front desks. These devices offer built-in protections against surges and provide battery backup in the event of a power outage.

Also consider a professional electrical assessment. An electrician or IT provider can evaluate your office’s wiring, recommend safer setups, and even install dedicated circuits for high-use areas. It’s an investment in safety, stability, and business continuity.

By taking these precautions, you’re protecting your equipment, your people, and your productivity. It’s not just about preventing fires, it’s about preventing those frustrating moments when your tools fail you, and you’re left wondering why. A smart power setup pays dividends every single day your tech runs smoothly and without interruption.

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Mistake #5: Skipping Professional Help for Complex Setups

When it comes to managing technology infrastructure, many Maine business owners are eager to save money wherever possible. One of the most common areas they try to handle themselves? Cable management especially in server rooms, networking closets, or offices with complicated wiring needs.

At first glance, it might seem like a no-brainer. Zip ties, a label maker, and a little DIY spirit should get the job done, right? Unfortunately, it’s rarely that simple.

Why DIY Cable Management Can Backfire

While skipping professional help might feel like a smart financial move upfront, it often creates much bigger headaches down the line. Poorly managed cables can lead to:

• Frequent outages and dropped connections due to loose or misrouted cables.

• Increased troubleshooting time, especially during emergencies.

• Slower network performance, as disorganized setups can interfere with airflow and signal flow.

• Fire hazards, if power and data cables aren’t separated correctly.

• Scalability issues, where adding or upgrading equipment becomes a nightmare.

We’ve seen this firsthand, server rooms that looked more like spaghetti bowls than business infrastructure. Over time, these “budget-friendly” setups end up costing far more in downtime, emergency repairs, and lost productivity.

Complex Wiring Deserves a Strategic Touch

Most business IT setups today involve more than just plugging in a few routers. Between VoIP phones, security systems, backup devices, point-of-sale systems, and cloud-connected equipment, your wiring isn’t just complex, it’s critical. Even a single misplaced or misconfigured connection can throw your whole system off balance.

In environments like dental practices, law firms, or hospitality businesses, every minute of downtime counts. If your systems go offline, it’s not just an inconvenience, it’s a disruption that impacts staff, clients, and revenue.

How to Fix It: Let the Pros Handle It

Here’s the good news: You don’t have to tackle it all yourself.

Partnering with a managed IT service provider, like us at Ekim IT Solutions, means your cable management is handled with care, strategy, and future growth in mind. We don’t just clean up wire, we design clean, labeled, efficient setups that make maintenance easier and scale with your business.
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You’ll get:

• Custom layouts based on your physical space and unique operational needs.

• Reduced downtime thanks to clearly organized and easily traceable cabling.

• Future-proofing that allows for easy upgrades and equipment changes.

• Peace of mind knowing your setup is compliant with industry best practices and safety standards.

Think of it as an investment, not an expense. You’re not just paying for neater wires, you’re paying for fewer headaches, smoother operations, and a network that works when you need it most.

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Ready to Clean Things Up?

Cable management might not be glamorous, but it’s foundational. When cords are tangled, mislabeled, or haphazardly installed, they quietly chip away at your business’s efficiency. From surprise system crashes to time-wasting troubleshooting, the costs pile up fast. But the fix doesn’t have to be complicated.

By addressing these common cabling mistakes, you’re not just tidying up wires, you’re creating a more reliable, stable, and stress-free environment for your team. Whether it’s your front desk staff relying on smooth scheduling software or your network supporting secure client communications, clean infrastructure makes everything feel easier.

At Ekim IT Solutions, we help Maine businesses build smarter systems behind the scenes so the rest of your operations can shine. Our cable setups aren’t one-size-fits-all. We tailor each solution to fit your space, your goals, and your future growth. It’s not just about aesthetics, it’s about function, performance, and peace of mind.

If your current setup feels like a mess or you’re unsure where to start, we’re here to make the next steps easy.

Let’s simplify your technology from the ground up. Starting with what’s behind the wall.
Reach out today and discover how a better setup can change the way your business runs.

🗓️ Book a  call with us
📞 207-333-2206
📧 info@ekimit.com
🌐 www.ekimit.com

• Joyce Gamil
• • January 29, 2025
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