Which of the following items should be considered a physical barrier when running cables?

A physical barrier in the context of running cables refers to any structure or object that physically obstructs the pathway or installation of cabling infrastructure. Pipe systems and walls are considered significant physical barriers because they can severely limit access to certain areas for installation and may require special techniques or tools to work around. For example, walls can prevent a straight run of cable and necessitate drilling or using conduits to navigate through.

While windows, doors, and furniture arrangements might affect cable routing or placement, they do not impede the installation process to the same extent as pipe systems and walls do. Windows may not obstruct the pathway at all, and doors typically allow for opening and closing without much restriction. Furniture arrangements might complicate the installation process but can often be adjusted or moved to facilitate the cabling run. However, pipe systems and walls create definitive barriers that must be considered in planning and executing a cabling project.