When businesses think about improving their network, they usually picture faster internet, new Wi-Fi access points, or switching to fiber. But there’s a “hidden upgrade” that often delivers immediate benefits with fewer headaches: cleaning up and organizing the network closet.
Smart buildings are becoming the new standard for commercial spaces across Georgia, especially in high-growth areas like Atlanta, Marietta, Kennesaw, and Rome. These buildings rely on automation, IoT devices, cloud-based systems, and advanced security technologies to operate efficiently. But behind every sensor, access point, camera, and smart controller lies one essential element: a fiber optic backbone.
This one is written to engage both small business owners and facility managers in Georgia who are evaluating upgrade options — and it naturally promotes Progressive Cabling’s expertise in both copper and fiber installations.
When it comes to building or upgrading your company’s network, one of the most common questions is: Should we use fiber optic cabling or copper cabling?
Both types of cabling have their place in modern infrastructure, but the best choice depends on your specific business needs, facility size, and performance goals.
At Progressive Cabling, we install both fiber optic and copper (Cat6/Cat6a) cabling across Atlanta, Cobb County, Rome, and surrounding areas, helping businesses of all sizes design efficient, scalable, and future-ready networks.
If you’re wondering which is right for your organization, let’s break down the key differences, advantages, and ideal use cases for each.
Copper cabling — including Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6a — uses electrical signals to transmit data between devices. It’s been the standard in commercial networking for decades and remains widely used for local area networks (LANs), office connections, and access point installations.
Fiber optic cabling uses light instead of electricity to transmit data through strands of glass or plastic. This allows information to travel at significantly higher speeds and over longer distances without signal loss or interference.
Both technologies are reliable, but their differences can make one a better fit than the other depending on your environment and connectivity goals.
Fiber optic cabling offers unmatched speed and bandwidth capacity. It can handle massive data loads and transfer information at nearly the speed of light.
In contrast, copper cabling (like Cat6 or Cat6a) is still fast and perfectly adequate for most small to mid-sized businesses but has limitations in bandwidth over longer distances.
Winner: Fiber – ideal for high-demand environments such as large offices, data centers, or warehouses with multiple devices streaming, uploading, and transferring data simultaneously.
Fiber optic cables maintain signal strength over miles, while copper cabling typically maxes out around 300 feet before performance drops.
For businesses that need connectivity between multiple buildings or across large facilities, fiber is the superior choice. However, for shorter runs inside offices or retail spaces, copper cabling remains cost-effective and practical.
Winner: Fiber for long-distance; Copper for local connections.
Copper cabling is more susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and environmental factors such as temperature changes, humidity, or nearby electrical wiring.
Fiber optic cabling, on the other hand, is immune to EMI and provides consistent, stable performance — even in industrial environments or high-density data applications.
Winner: Fiber – especially in warehouses, healthcare facilities, and manufacturing plants.
Copper cabling is typically less expensive to install and easier to maintain, making it ideal for smaller networks or budget-conscious projects.
Fiber optic cabling requires specialized tools and technicians, which can increase upfront installation costs — but it delivers long-term savings through better reliability, lower maintenance, and longer lifespan.
Winner: Copper for short-term affordability; Fiber for long-term value.
In an age where cybersecurity is more critical than ever, fiber has a clear advantage. Because it transmits data through light instead of electrical signals, it’s nearly impossible to tap without physically damaging the line — making it a much more secure medium for sensitive information.
Winner: Fiber – especially for financial, legal, or healthcare organizations handling confidential data.
If your business is growing fast or upgrading to cloud-based systems, fiber optic cabling provides the scalability you’ll need. It can easily handle future increases in bandwidth demands, whereas copper may eventually require replacement or supplementation.
That said, a hybrid approach — using fiber as the backbone and copper for local connections — often delivers the best of both worlds.
Winner: Both – depending on your layout and growth plans.
For many Georgia businesses, the most effective and cost-efficient option is a hybrid network.
Fiber serves as the backbone, connecting server rooms, data centers, and key network hubs across long distances.
Copper cabling connects local workstations, access points, and devices within each office or floor.
This combination delivers high-speed performance while keeping installation costs reasonable — and Progressive Cabling specializes in designing these integrated systems.
From Atlanta offices to Rome warehouses and Cobb County schools, Progressive Cabling delivers:
Expert installation of fiber, Cat6, and Cat6a cabling systems
Organized, code-compliant, and future-ready networks
Hybrid system design for optimal cost and performance
Certified technicians for both copper and fiber installations
Ongoing maintenance, testing, and troubleshooting services
Our goal is to provide you with a network that meets today’s demands and tomorrow’s possibilities — without unnecessary complexity or downtime.
Whether your business needs fiber optic speed, copper cabling efficiency, or a hybrid design, Progressive Cabling has the expertise to plan, install, and maintain the right system for you.
We proudly serve businesses across Atlanta, Cobb County, Floyd County, and all of Northwest Georgia, delivering reliable, high-performance cabling infrastructure.
Contact Progressive Cabling today to schedule a consultation and find out which cabling solution is best for your business.
As technology continues to evolve, many businesses in Atlanta, GA are upgrading from older network infrastructure to faster, more reliable systems like Cat6, Cat6a, and fiber optic cabling. One critical step in this process that often gets overlooked is Cat5e cable demolition.
At Progressive Cabling, we provide professional Cat5e demolition services to help businesses clear out outdated cabling, keep their spaces safe, and prepare for future-ready network installations. Our team ensures the removal process is efficient, compliant with building codes, and minimally disruptive to your operations.
Cat5e cabling was once the standard for networking, but it can no longer keep pace with today’s demands for higher bandwidth, cloud-based applications, and large-scale data transfers. Many older buildings in Atlanta still contain abandoned or unused Cat5e cabling, which can create a variety of problems:
Safety Concerns – Old cables often clutter ceilings, risers, and server rooms, restricting airflow and increasing fire risks.
Code Compliance – Local building codes and the National Electrical Code (NEC) often require the removal of abandoned cables.
Obstacles to Upgrades – Leaving old cabling in place makes it harder and more expensive to install new infrastructure.
Cluttered Workspaces – Outdated wiring makes IT rooms disorganized and harder to manage.
By removing outdated Cat5e cabling, you set the stage for a clean, organized, and high-performing network environment.
Progressive Cabling works with businesses, property managers, and contractors across Atlanta for a range of scenarios:
Office Renovations – Preparing for modern layouts and faster network systems.
Relocations – Meeting lease requirements to remove abandoned cabling.
Upgrading to Cat6, Cat6a, or Fiber – Clearing the path for high-speed network installations.
Compliance & Safety Projects – Addressing fire and safety concerns in older buildings.
Warehouse Modernization – Removing legacy cabling to support automation and IoT systems.
We provide a careful, professional approach that minimizes downtime and protects your space:
Site Evaluation – We inspect your building to identify which cables need to be removed.
Planning & Coordination – We develop a safe, efficient plan to remove cables while respecting your schedule.
Demolition & Removal – Our technicians carefully extract Cat5e cabling from walls, ceilings, conduits, and server racks.
Responsible Disposal & Recycling – We dispose of or recycle materials in compliance with environmental regulations.
Clean-Up & Preparation – We leave your space neat, safe, and ready for future installations.
Hiring Progressive Cabling for your cable removal offers key advantages:
Code-Compliant Service – Our team follows NEC guidelines and local Atlanta regulations.
Enhanced Safety – Reducing fire hazards and clearing pathways for airflow.
Faster Future Upgrades – Preparing your site for new Cat6, Cat6a, or fiber installations.
Organized Infrastructure – Making IT rooms, risers, and server closets more manageable.
Minimal Disruption – We work around your operations to avoid unnecessary downtime.
We proudly serve businesses across the Atlanta metro region, including:
Downtown and Midtown high-rises transitioning to modern network systems.
Buckhead and Perimeter Center offices upgrading to meet growing bandwidth demands.
Industrial facilities and warehouses near the airport preparing for automation and IoT-driven operations.
Suburban office parks and retail spaces needing safe removal of legacy cabling.
Our local expertise means we understand the unique needs of Atlanta’s diverse commercial spaces.
Businesses choose Progressive Cabling for Cat5e demolition services because we offer:
Experienced Technicians – Skilled in both removing old infrastructure and installing new systems.
Compliance & Safety Focus – Ensuring projects meet all regulations.
Efficient, Organized Work – Keeping projects on schedule and minimizing downtime.
Future-Ready Support – After demolition, we can design and install modern Cat6, Cat6a, or fiber cabling.
Customer-Centered Service – Clear communication and professionalism throughout every project.
If your building still has outdated Cat5e cabling, now is the perfect time to take the next step. Removing old infrastructure not only improves safety and compliance but also makes future network upgrades faster and more cost-effective.
Progressive Cabling provides Cat5e demolition services in Atlanta, GA, delivering safe, organized, and efficient cable removal for businesses of all sizes.
Call Progressive Cabling today for a quote and let our experienced team help you prepare your office, warehouse, or commercial property for the next generation of network technology.
Running a warehouse today is about more than just moving products—it’s about speed, accuracy, and connectivity. In Rome, GA, warehouses are modernizing at a rapid pace, with handheld scanners, automated systems, and cloud-based inventory tools becoming the new normal. To keep these systems running smoothly, one thing is essential: a strong, reliable wireless network.
As businesses in Kennesaw, GA expand and modernize, many discover that outdated cabling systems are holding them back. Old Cat6 or abandoned network wiring left behind after moves, renovations, or upgrades can create problems ranging from clutter to safety hazards. That’s why professional Cat6 demolition services are an essential step in maintaining a safe, efficient, and future-ready workplace.
In today’s connected world, a fast, reliable network is the backbone of both business and home operations. Whether you’re running a corporate office, managing a retail space, or upgrading your home network, the quality of your Access Point (AP) installation and data cabling directly impacts performance. For businesses and residents in Canton, GA, Progressive Cabling delivers expert solutions designed for speed, security, and long-term reliability.
A wireless network is only as strong as its infrastructure. Access Points are the devices that connect wired network systems to wireless devices, creating a seamless Wi-Fi experience throughout your space.
While consumer-grade devices may work for smaller setups, commercial and enterprise environments require professional-grade AP installation to ensure:
Complete coverage without dead zones
Optimal bandwidth allocation for multiple devices and heavy usage
Scalable networks that grow with your business
Strong security protocols to protect sensitive data
Progressive Cabling uses strategic placement, high-quality hardware, and precision cabling to deliver networks that work as hard as you do.
Behind every reliable wireless connection is a high-performing wired backbone. Data cabling—whether it’s Cat6, Cat6a, Cat8, or fiber optic—transports the data between devices, servers, and access points with maximum speed and stability.
Our data installation services in Canton, GA cover:
New builds and renovations – Planning and installing structured cabling from the ground up
Upgrades – Replacing outdated cables to support higher speeds and modern applications
Troubleshooting & repairs – Identifying and fixing issues that slow down your network
Future-proofing – Installing cabling that meets today’s needs and tomorrow’s demands
When your cabling is done right the first time, you avoid costly downtime, bottlenecks, and frequent upgrades.
Progressive Cabling combines local knowledge of Canton’s business and residential infrastructure with industry best practices for structured cabling and AP installation. That means we design systems that work for your unique location, whether you’re in a historic downtown building or a modern office complex.
Our team is certified in leading cabling and networking standards, ensuring your system is not just installed, but installed to code, to spec, and to last.
When you hire us for AP and data installs, you get:
Customized Network Design – No cookie-cutter solutions; we tailor every project to your coverage needs, building layout, and device demands.
High-Performance Hardware – From enterprise-grade access points to top-tier cabling, we only use trusted, proven equipment.
Clean, Professional Installation – Organized cabling and neat AP mounting for both aesthetics and easy maintenance.
Scalable Solutions – Networks that expand easily as your staff, devices, or space grows.
Post-Installation Support – Troubleshooting, adjustments, and upgrades whenever you need them.
Our AP installation and data cabling services are trusted by:
Small & large businesses – Offices, warehouses, retail stores, and healthcare facilities
Educational institutions – Schools, libraries, and training centers needing reliable connectivity
Hospitality & event venues – Hotels, conference spaces, and entertainment facilities
Smart homes – Residences with advanced automation, streaming, and high-speed internet needs
Whether you’re setting up a new office network or upgrading your home Wi-Fi, we bring the same attention to detail to every project.
Consultation & Site Survey – We assess your needs, building layout, and future growth plans.
Custom Plan & Quote – Clear, transparent pricing with a detailed scope of work.
Expert Installation – AP placement, data cabling, and system configuration handled by trained technicians.
Testing & Optimization – We verify signal strength, speed, and coverage before sign-off.
Ongoing Support – We’re just a call away for maintenance, upgrades, and troubleshooting.
Your network deserves the same care and precision as any other critical business system. Poor Wi-Fi coverage and outdated cabling can slow productivity, frustrate customers, and compromise security. Progressive Cabling delivers AP installations and data cabling in Canton, GA that are built for performance, reliability, and the future.
Contact us today to schedule your site assessment and take the first step toward a faster, stronger, and smarter network.
In today’s digital age, businesses need reliable, fast, and secure networks to stay connected and competitive. Whether you're expanding your current office or starting fresh in a new space, investing in high-quality cabling is critical for maintaining smooth communication and optimal network performance. For businesses in Kennesaw, GA, Progressive Office Cabling offers top-notch Cat6 cable installation services that meet all your data and networking needs.
As businesses continue to generate and consume data at unprecedented rates, the need for faster, more efficient processing is more critical than ever. This demand has led to the rapid rise of edge computing, a technology trend reshaping how data is handled, processed, and delivered. For office networks, this shift brings both challenges and opportunities that demand attention.
Edge computing is the practice of processing data closer to its source—whether it's sensors, computers, or smart devices—rather than relying solely on centralized cloud data centers. By performing tasks at the "edge" of the network, businesses can reduce latency, improve response times, and reduce bandwidth use.
For example, instead of sending surveillance footage or IoT sensor data to the cloud for analysis, edge computing allows that data to be processed locally in real time. This is especially beneficial for industries that depend on rapid decision-making and high levels of security, such as healthcare, manufacturing, finance, and smart office environments.
The rise of edge computing is driven by several converging trends:
Explosion of IoT Devices: Smart thermostats, security systems, connected lighting, and occupancy sensors generate huge volumes of data. Processing that data on-site reduces cloud dependency.
Need for Real-Time Insights: Applications such as video conferencing, access control systems, and productivity monitoring tools require instant data processing.
Increased Network Demand: Centralized systems can experience congestion and delays. Edge solutions alleviate this by distributing computing power.
As these technologies proliferate, businesses that adapt their office networks to support edge computing will benefit from superior performance, enhanced security, and increased flexibility.
Integrating edge computing into your office network requires thoughtful planning. Here are some core areas where edge computing influences network design:
Edge computing requires local servers, storage, and sometimes even dedicated micro data centers. Office IT infrastructure must be scalable to accommodate this additional hardware without compromising existing systems.
Structured cabling becomes essential—ensuring proper data transfer speeds and minimizing interference. Category 6 or higher cabling is recommended for supporting high-speed, low-latency connectivity between edge devices and central systems.
To keep sensitive data secure and optimize bandwidth usage, network segmentation becomes a priority. Offices deploying edge devices must isolate traffic between critical systems (e.g., access controls, VoIP, IoT sensors) to prevent bottlenecks and unauthorized access.
Managed switches and VLANs (Virtual LANs) play a significant role here, allowing administrators to control data flow and protect key assets.
Processing data on-site can reduce the risk of interception during transmission, but it also increases the number of potential attack vectors. Each edge device becomes a possible point of entry for cybercriminals.
IT managers must implement robust endpoint protection, firewalls, and encryption. Physical security measures, such as locked cabinets and restricted access to hardware, are also important.
Local processing power means less reliance on internet connectivity. However, redundancy is still crucial. Offices should install backup power supplies (UPS), redundant switches, and failover systems to ensure continuous operation even during outages.
With less data needing to travel to and from the cloud, edge computing significantly reduces bandwidth strain. This opens up capacity for other critical applications like VoIP, video conferencing, or cloud backups.
Businesses can also save on monthly internet costs by reducing their overall data usage.
Adopting edge computing offers a range of tangible benefits:
Lower Latency: Faster response times enhance everything from security monitoring to virtual collaboration.
Greater Privacy: Sensitive data can be kept on-premises, reducing exposure.
Operational Efficiency: Real-time analytics enable proactive decision-making, improving workflows.
Reduced Costs: Edge computing cuts down on data transit fees and cloud storage expenses.
Edge computing is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s happening now. To leverage its full potential, your office must be equipped with the proper infrastructure and network design.
At Progressive Office Cabling, we specialize in designing and installing network systems optimized for modern business needs, including edge computing environments. Whether you're upgrading an existing network or building a new office setup, our team ensures your cabling, hardware, and layout support the performance, reliability, and scalability you require.
In today’s digitally driven world, your business’s performance depends on more than fast internet—it requires a reliable, organized, and scalable network infrastructure. Whether you're expanding your office, relocating, or upgrading outdated wiring, structured cabling is a foundational investment that can determine the success of your communications, data flow, and long-term tech upgrades.