Modern installation with Ethernet cabling from the start.
Modern installation with Ethernet cabling from the start.
You’ll need a network switch to manage all your Ethernet connections. Since you already have a router and modem set up, connecting everything together will involve linking the switch to the router and then connecting the individual Ethernet ports as needed.
Hi. You're asking about ports specifically, not plugs. Are you referring to each cable already having a RJ45 plug at the end? If yes, then yes – consider getting a 24 or 48 port switch that matches the cable speed (or better, one you can replace later). Avoid managed switches; you'll need proper qualification. Opt for an unmanaged switch instead. One port per router LAN connection is recommended. If the cables lack plugs at the end, you'll need RJ45 plugs and a fitting tool, plus a wiring diagram to guide placement. Keep each wire pair tightly twisted near its termination. If this is the issue, replacing the cables might be better, depending on their condition.
To end the cables correctly, use a patch panel. It will connect via short "patch cables" to your preferred switch. A router connection must then reach that switch to send Ethernet throughout the rooms. I’ll provide an example, just a simple setup for illustration. A basic rack-mount patch panel: https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=8627 A simple patch panel for installation: https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=7253 For a more compact option, check this 16 or 24 port Gigabit switch that fits in a rack: https://a.co/d/6RAH7Ly https://a.co/d/6elEiAN Six-inch patch cables will link the panel to the switch: https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=27431 @OhioYJ you're right, keep it out of the attic.
But you probably don’t want them hanging up high in the attic. You’ll almost certainly need to bring them down into another room. Most attics won’t reach the safe operating temperatures for electronics. I checked the specs of some switches and saw they handle heat in both directions, hot and cold. All my network cables end up in the laundry room: that’s where my switches are installed. In my setup, I didn’t use a patch panel—I just connected everything directly to keystones in the wall.
Not bad? It could be a bit awkward and perhaps a little awkward online? Maybe then you need to end every connection with an RJ45 plug and honestly, I don’t like it.
Yes, that’s correct. The path should be Ethernet plug → attic → patch panel → switch → modem.