The house uses a Cat 5e connection but it only supports phone calls, not data transmission.

F5F Stay Refreshed Power Users Networks The house uses a Cat 5e connection but it only supports phone calls, not data transmission.

crumpet2
Member

11-12-2025, 06:01 PM

All rooms in my house use a Cat 5e network plug that hasn’t been used since I stopped having landline service five years ago. The patch panel isn’t for data connections—it’s for phone lines. Should I replace it with a RJ45 patch panel or can I just connect the ends of the Cat 5e cables to a switch? Thanks for your help!

crumpet2

11-12-2025, 06:01 PM #1

NrosenYT
Member

174

11-13-2025, 08:04 PM

You might simply attach RJ45 connectors to the cable ends, though I prefer not to since it complicates keeping them organized. A Cat5e patch panel would be a better option.

NrosenYT

11-13-2025, 08:04 PM #2

You might simply attach RJ45 connectors to the cable ends, though I prefer not to since it complicates keeping them organized. A Cat5e patch panel would be a better option.

ProTimmy
Member

123

11-15-2025, 03:00 AM

Yes, there are benefits beyond neatness. You already possess the necessary tools to cut the ends.

ProTimmy

11-15-2025, 03:00 AM #3

Yes, there are benefits beyond neatness. You already possess the necessary tools to cut the ends.

Altenius
Junior Member

11-17-2025, 07:00 AM

I recommend adding a data patch panel. Additionally, I'll verify that all keystones in the rooms are properly terminated, not just the ones used for phones.

Altenius

11-17-2025, 07:00 AM #4

I recommend adding a data patch panel. Additionally, I'll verify that all keystones in the rooms are properly terminated, not just the ones used for phones.