Why should network cabling be tested to a standard before the network equipment is connected to it?

Network cabling should be tested to a standard before connecting network equipment to ensure reliability and performance. Proper testing verifies that the cabling meets industry specifications for signal integrity, bandwidth, and distance, which helps prevent issues such as data loss or slow network speeds. Additionally, pre-connection testing can identify faults or defects that could lead to costly downtime or troubleshooting later on. Ensuring that the cabling is compliant ultimately enhances the overall efficiency and stability of the network infrastructure.