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.
Businesses in Floyd County, GA, especially those in Rome and surrounding areas like Cave Spring, Lindale, and Shannon, depend on reliable networks and secure facilities to stay productive and competitive. Whether you’re operating an office, warehouse, healthcare facility, or retail space, your success relies on strong connectivity and safe, controlled access.
At Progressive Cabling, we deliver professional network cabling, fiber optic installations, and integrated security solutions that help businesses in Floyd County create efficient, future-ready infrastructures.
Modern businesses run on data. From video conferencing and cloud computing to Wi-Fi and security cameras, every system depends on a well-designed cabling network. Outdated cabling or disorganized wiring can lead to slower speeds, poor connectivity, and even safety risks.
By upgrading your infrastructure with Progressive Cabling, you’ll benefit from:
High-Speed Connectivity – Using Cat6, Cat6a, and fiber optic cabling for fast, reliable data transfer.
Enhanced Security – Integrated door access control systems, card readers, and keypads to safeguard your facility.
Scalable Growth – Structured cabling systems that can expand as your business grows.
Improved Reliability – Organized infrastructure that minimizes downtime and disruptions.
Compliance & Safety – Meeting local building codes and NEC standards for cabling and security systems.
Progressive Cabling offers a complete range of services designed to meet the needs of offices, industrial facilities, and public institutions in Rome and nearby communities:
We design and install organized, labeled cabling systems that serve as the backbone for your data, voice, and security networks. Structured cabling ensures your system is reliable, scalable, and easy to manage.
For businesses needing higher bandwidth and faster connections over long distances—such as medical centers, schools, and large offices—we provide expert fiber optic installation, delivering future-ready performance.
We install data drops in strategic locations—offices, warehouse workstations, and security hubs—to keep devices like computers, scanners, and printers connected with strong, consistent network access.
Seamless Wi-Fi coverage is essential for today’s hybrid work environments. We install enterprise-grade APs that eliminate dead zones and balance bandwidth across your building or facility.
We provide organized camera cabling runs that support Power over Ethernet (PoE) for dependable power and data delivery, ensuring clear video feeds and reliable performance.
We install and integrate card readers, keypads, and managed access control systems to enhance security, streamline employee access, and protect sensitive areas.
Outdated cabling—like old Cat5e or abandoned Cat6—can be a fire hazard and an obstacle for upgrades. We offer professional demolition and clean-up services to prepare your space for new installations.
We proudly serve businesses and organizations throughout Floyd County, including:
Rome – Providing network and security upgrades for corporate offices, schools, and healthcare facilities.
Cave Spring – Supporting small businesses and municipal buildings with structured cabling and access control.
Lindale & Shannon – Installing secure, reliable infrastructure for manufacturing plants, warehouses, and retail operations.
Berry College & Educational Institutions – Upgrading networks to support hybrid learning and increased technology use.
Our local expertise ensures we understand the unique needs of both urban businesses in Rome and more rural facilities throughout Floyd County.
Businesses in the region trust us because we deliver:
Local Expertise – Knowledge of the specific needs of businesses in Rome and surrounding towns.
Comprehensive Solutions – Offering everything from fiber optic cabling to security access control in one integrated package.
Code-Compliant Work – All installations meet NEC and local building standards.
Clean, Organized Installations – Reducing future maintenance costs and improving system reliability.
Future-Ready Designs – Building networks that are ready for new devices, increased demand, and evolving technologies.
Investing in modern cabling and security solutions isn’t just about today’s needs—it’s about preparing for the future:
Faster Connectivity – Supports modern cloud-based applications and remote collaboration.
Better Protection – Integrated access control and security cameras keep facilities safe.
Lower Maintenance Costs – Organized cabling systems make troubleshooting and upgrades more efficient.
Increased Property Value – A modern network infrastructure makes your building more attractive to tenants and buyers.
Peace of Mind – Reliable systems mean fewer disruptions and greater productivity.
From downtown Rome offices to warehouses in Lindale and retail spaces in Cave Spring, Progressive Cabling is the trusted local partner for network cabling, fiber optic installations, data drops, access control systems, and camera cabling services.
We combine technical expertise, local knowledge, and customer-focused service to deliver solutions that keep your business connected, secure, and ready for the future.
Contact Progressive Cabling today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can transform your network infrastructure and security systems in Floyd County, GA.
Atlanta is one of the fastest-growing business hubs in the Southeast, home to thriving startups, tech firms, logistics companies, and professional services. With that growth comes a demand for reliable, high-speed network infrastructure. As businesses expand, they need strong connectivity for everything from cloud computing and video conferencing to advanced security systems.
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 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.
In an era where data security and physical safety are non-negotiable, businesses in Marietta, GA are rapidly upgrading to Cat6 commercial security camera systems. From medical offices and warehouses to restaurants and retail spaces, companies across Marietta are investing in advanced surveillance solutions that offer high-resolution video, network reliability, and 24/7 peace of mind.
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.