This is a video of how we installed cable railing on our ground level deck and saved a lot of money in the process by using common hardware store items. Kits to do this can cost hundreds of dollars, and we did it for less than $60. If I was doing it again, I would use stainless steel cable to prevent rusting.

THIS IS A METHOD FOR GROUND LEVEL DECKS, I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND THE SMALL ELEVATOR BOLTS FOR A HIGHER STRUCTURE. I WOULD USE LARGER BOLTS AND RETAIN THE CABLE ON BOTH ENDS TO NOT JUST RELY ON FRICTION FOR AN ELEVATED DECK. ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR LOCAL BUILDING OFFICIAL AND PULL THE REQUIRED PERMITS BEFORE YOU BEGIN WORK.

Tools:

Drill

9/64" all purpose drill bit (to drill through bolt threads). If you flatten the threaded part of the bolt with a hammer or Dremel tool a little bit, it makes it easier to drill and leaves a little more metal on the outside of your hole.

1/4" drill bit (to drill through posts for cable and for eyelet bolts)

Forstener Drill Bit (pick a size that is smaller than the diameter of the bolt head you use) I believe I used a 7/8" or 1" bit.

Bolt Cutters (for crimping cables ferrules)

Fencing Pliers (for cutting the cable)

Crescent Wrench (for tightening eyelet bolt nuts)


Materials:
should be able to find all of this at your local hardware store...

1/8" Cable Ferrules/crimping sleeves (pack of 15)
https://www.menards.com/main/toolsha...

1/4" x 71/2" Steel Hook Turnbuckle with Aluminum Body
https://www.menards.com/main/toolsha...

1/8" Galvanized Cable
https://www.menards.com/main/toolsha...

Optional 1/8" Stainless Cable (recommended for rust prevention)
https://www.menards.com/main/building..." x 4" Stainless Steel Eye Bolts
https://www.menards.com/main/toolsha...

1/4"20 x 1" Elevator Bolts (or any other bolt of your choice)
https://www.menards.com/main/toolsha...

3/8" inside diameterthick washers
https://www.menards.com/main/toolsha...