According to LAN Magazine, “85-95% of network failures are due in large part to cabling problems.”
As speeds and bandwidth increase, slight errors in installation CAN make the system non-compliant and MAY make a network useless so consider the following list of cabling tips:

• Don’t remove more of the outer jacket then is necessary to terminate.
• When terminating, don’t untwist conductors more then 1/2″ for CAT5e or higher cables.
• Don’t Run Next to Electricity:
  • Avoid electrical cabling and electrical sources.
  • Don’t tie cables to electrical conduits.
  • Don’t run communication cabling within 2 ft of electrical.
  • Always cross electrical at right angles.
• Protect Cabling:
  • Avoid sharp edges when pulling.
  • Use grommets to protect the cable when passing through rough openings.
  • Use low pulling force (25lbf or less), if using a pull string use one rated at 200lbf.
  • Make gradual bends when necessary (1″ radius min, 2″ recommended).
  • Don’t over tighten tie wraps.
  • Avoid using staples. If you must, use staples rated for use with communications cables (i.e T59).
• Use one wiring scheme – 568A (preferred).
• Always run all cables in a STAR topology.
• Limit runs to 295 ft (90 meters).
• Properly label all cables.
• Always use proper testing.
• Leave slack at the both the outlet (8″ min) and patch panel (10ft).
• Pull longest runs first working towards your shortest runs to reduce waste to
  an average of 15%.