What is an Ethernet Extender and how does it work?

An Ethernet Extender is a device that extends an Ethernet LAN signal beyond the standard IEEE 802.3 limit of 328 feet (100 meters). Enable-IT invented the Ethernet Extender concept in the 1990s. The technology works by converting the Ethernet signal to a long-range format that can travel over a single wire pair — including existing telephone wire or coax — and then converting it back at the remote end. Enable-IT Ethernet Extenders can reach up to 9,000 ft (2.74 km) on a single wire pair without repeaters.

How far can an Enable-IT Ethernet Extender reach?

Enable-IT Ethernet Extenders reach distances from 3,280 ft (1 km) on Gigabit PRO series models up to 9,000 ft (2.74 km) on the 860 PRO series — up to 27 times the standard IEEE 802.3 Ethernet limit of 328 ft. Exact distance depends on the model, wire gauge, and cable quality. Contact Enable-IT support at (888) 309-0910 for a site-specific recommendation.

Can Enable-IT Ethernet Extenders work over existing telephone wire?

Yes. Enable-IT Ethernet Extenders work over existing copper wiring including telephone wire (twisted pair), coaxial cable, and any metal conductor pair. No new cabling is required in most installations, making them a cost-effective alternative to running new Ethernet or fiber cable.

What is a PoE Extender and what does it do?

A PoE Extender transmits both data and electrical power simultaneously over a single wire pair at distances far beyond the standard IEEE 802.3af/at limit. Enable-IT invented the PoE Extender in 2005. Enable-IT PoE Extenders can deliver power and Gigabit data up to 4,000 ft (1.22 km), allowing IP cameras, access points, and other PoE-powered devices to be placed wherever needed without a local power outlet.

Are Enable-IT Ethernet Extenders encrypted and secure?

Yes. All Enable-IT Ethernet Extender and PoE Extender products include built-in AES-256 bit encryption. Enable-IT products are the only Ethernet and PoE Extenders approved for use in US Federal Government networks — all foreign-made competitor products are banned from US Government infrastructure. Enable-IT products are designed, manufactured, and supported entirely in the USA.

Do Enable-IT Extenders require configuration or software to set up?

No. Enable-IT Ethernet Extenders and PoE Extenders are true plug-and-play devices. No configuration, software installation, or network setup is required. Simply connect power and the Ethernet or PoE cable at each end and the link comes up automatically.

What warranty do Enable-IT products carry?

Enable-IT products carry a Lifetime Product Warranty. Enable-IT also offers a Next Business Day Advanced Replacement Program (AREP) for mission-critical installations, ensuring a replacement unit ships the next business day if any issue arises. Contact Enable-IT at (888) 309-0910 for warranty service.

Where are Enable-IT products manufactured?

Enable-IT products are 100% designed, developed, manufactured, and supported in the USA to AS9100D Aerospace Quality standards. Enable-IT is the only Ethernet Extender and PoE Extender manufacturer with entirely US-based production. Products ship factory-direct, often same day.

Can Enable-IT Extenders be used outdoors?

Yes. Enable-IT offers IP68 NEMA 6P weatherproof outdoor Ethernet Extenders and PoE Extenders (821W, 821WP, 860W PRO, 865W PRO, 828W, 828WP, and coax variants) rated for submersion and extreme outdoor conditions. The 265LP Lightning Protection Kit provides complete end-to-end protection for outdoor cable runs.

How do I find the right Enable-IT Extender model for my project?

Use the model comparison charts on the Ethernet Extender or PoE Extender pages at enableit.com to match your required distance, throughput, port count, and cable type (RJ-45, coax, or outdoor). For complex projects call (888) 309-0910 for a free custom design consultation. Custom OEM solutions are also available with no minimum order quantity.

Where can I find manuals, datasheets, and firmware for my Enable-IT product?

All Enable-IT product documentation is at enableit.com/knowledgebase/ — including QuickStart Guides, Manuals, Datasheets, White Papers, and the Firmware Tool. For assistance contact Enable-IT support at (888) 309-0910, Monday–Friday 5AM–4PM PST.

Does Enable-IT offer GSA Schedule ordering for US Government procurement?

Yes. Enable-IT products are available through the GSA Schedule for US Federal Government procurement at enableit.com/gsa-government-ordering/. Enable-IT is the only Ethernet Extender and PoE Extender manufacturer whose products are approved for use within US Federal Government network infrastructure.

Enable-IT Knowledgebase

Use the Links below to find common FAQ for our Solutions, General Networking along with Manuals, data sheets and firmware.

Enable-IT Knowledgebase

Ethernet Extender FAQ

Lightning Protection FAQ

PoE Extender FAQ

Rackmount DSLAM FAQ

Power FAQ

Wireless (WiFi) FAQ

Networking FAQ

Shipping FAQ

Datasheets

QuickStart Guides

White Papers

Firmware Tool

Trusted Solutions

Awesome Support

About Us

Want A Free Custom Design Consultation?

Request for Quote From Distributors

Request for Discount Quote

Enable-IT Knowledgebase

Ethernet Extender FAQ

Lightning Protection FAQ

PoE Extender FAQ

Rackmount DSLAM FAQ

Power FAQ

Wireless (WiFi) FAQ

Networking FAQ

Shipping FAQ

Datasheets

QuickStart Guides

White Papers

Firmware Tool

Trusted Solutions

Awesome Support

About Us

Review Cart

Want A Free Custom Design Consultation?

Request for Quote From Distributors

Request for Discount Quote