M.I.C.E. provides a method of categorizing the environmental classes for each factory cell or area zone and provides the determination of the level of “hardening” required for the network media, connectors, pathways and enclosures. “M” “I” “C” “E” or MICE refers to Mechanical – such as Shock and Vibration, Ingress – how the solution needs to handle water or dust, Climatic/Chemical – the Temperature and washdown of water or exposure to acids or oil mixtures, and Electromagnetic – exposure to ESD and Electrical Noise. The value of each of these pieces is given a rating of 1, being of low concern, to a value of 3 being a high concern. By understanding the environmental requirements properly, one is able to use lower cost enterprise solutions in areas with lower environmental concern areas (such as MICE levels of 1) and more robust connectivity with higher MICE levels that require products such as Armored or Dielectric cable needs and IP67 type of connections.