LAN Addict

'Ello.
I am planning on hosting a ~40-50 person LAN party and I have a few questions.

1. Is there a maximum length of CAT5e/CAT6 before the signal drops?
2. Should we assign static IP's and Seat/Table #'s at the door to keep things organised?
3. Should the LAN Party have internet access, or just LAN access?
4. For power, how many people should be on a 20Amp circuit approximately?
5. Is there some sort of "power board" you can get that plugs in to a 220 Outlet and provides many 20A/15A Receptacles? Would be easier for power management as 220 is cheaper than 110.
6. Should the core network/game servers/local servers be kept away from everyone else, maybe in another room?

More questions might come later.

Hi there, welcome to LanAddict!

1. Yes, these cables are specified for a maximum length of 100m. It's a good idea to keep them shorter.
2. I recommend using a DHCP server and assigning dynamic adresses. If you need some "static" ones, use the DHCP server to assign specific adresses to certain MAC-adresses.
3. Internet access will certainly server for a better experience, especially during breaks etc.
4. I think you can put up to max. 10 people on a 10A circuit with all their gear.
6. Yes, if possible, that's a good idea to prevent "accidents".

Feel free to post any further questions right here!

Okay, thanks.
Here is a list of what I think guests should bring. If I have forgotten anything important, please post it.


Would it be wise to have spare power bars and extension cords?

I was thinking of setting up a local server that can be accessed by any PC/Laptop on the LAN with information about the LAN Party. Is this a good idea, or bad?

Do you have any rules to suggest? Here are some that I have so far, more would be appreciated.


Also, if anyone has any tips that could be useful, they would be nice.

Your list of things for the attendees to bring as well as the rules sound good. Keeping some spare cables, plugs etc. just in case is a good idea, too.

I'm not sure about your server with LAN party information though, as I don't see it adding any extra benefit to things. If you're going to use it a file and/or game server as well, then I guess you could do that.

Yes, the server will also be holding files.

Cat5 experiences attinuation at 150m-200m.You could make them have static ips, dont let them on the internet unless your on a fiber, Id go with sticking the servers in another room for ac reasons

Yeah, the internet access will be restricted.
I've been thinking and this is what I think I'm going to do:

1. As people pass through the ticket collection, they will be assigned a static IP and seat number. If they have friends and want to sit near them, it can be allowed.
2. The Servers and Core Network equipment is going to be stored behind a fenced area (Crew area)