How to Hook Up an Ethernet Cord to an Outside Supply

A power surge will likely damage your computer's unprotected components.

Many computer users protect their expensive hardware with an external power supply that acts as a power conditioner. This unit protects the computer from sudden drops in power and major spikes that can occur in a lightening strike. Running your network's Ethernet cables through an external power supply is also a smart choice that will safeguard your equipment. Although lightening strikes are less likely to cause serious damage through an Ethernet cable, it can happen. Running the Ethernet wires through the power supply before plugging in to your router or computer will protect your hardware from electrical current fluctuations.

Instructions

1. Plug your phone or cable line into your modem. The modem will transfer the signal from the external wires to an Ethernet cable.

2. Plug an Ethernet cable into the modem's "LAN" port. Connect the other end of the cable to the "Ethernet In" port on your external power supply.

3. Run an Ethernet cable from the "Ethernet Out" port on your power supply to your router, if your power supply supports this option; otherwise, run it to your computer. Your equipment is now protected.

Tips & Warnings

• Use only a high-quality surge protector when connecting your computer components. Even if you can afford a full-fledged power conditioner, a surge protector is a necessity to protect your equipment.