The core principle for outdoor cabling is water runs down and never along the cable. Three layers implement it.

1. Conduit: run outdoor cable inside metal or flame-retardant PVC conduit for its whole length to avoid UV degradation from direct sun. Seal the ends with sealing compound and provide a weep hole at the lowest point so the conduit cannot fill with water.
2. Glands and boxes: put every connection inside a waterproof junction box with cable entries facing down. Treat joints with both sealing compound and a proper gland; for network cable use a waterproof plug boot.
3. Drip loops: form a U-shaped drip loop before the cable enters the device, so water falls at the bottom of the loop instead of tracking into the connector.
4. Separate power and data: run network and power cable in separate conduits where possible, and if they must run together keep at least 20 cm spacing to limit electromagnetic interference.
5. Materials: specify water-blocking network cable, weather-resistant sheathing and stainless fixings. Ordinary cable ties degrade quickly in sunlight.

For acceptance, spray the installation or wait for rain and then check for water inside the junction boxes. It is the fastest test of waterproofing workmanship.