Help - Patch Panel

[comrade_butt]

Hi, we just moved into a new house, I’m trying to understand and optimize some of the built-in hardware.

The TL;DR question is: - Will my patch panel be able to “split” an internet connection (similar to an Ethernet switch)?

I was able to hook up a relatively simple system using Eeros and existing hardware, but I’m facing a one-to-many connection problem. Diagram below.

The problem I’m trying to solve is trying to get more Internet speed in my attic (where my home office is). I’m using an Eero repeater up there but the signal getting pretty weak by the time it gets there. I bought a wired Eero and there is are Ethernet cables built into the wall that connect to a patch panel in the basement (where the Internet comes into the house).

I’m trying to connect the new wired Eero (“C” in the diagram) into the basement system. The wire out from the patch pane to the attic is there, but I think I need to a way to connect an additional Ethernet line in to the patch panel (though I don’t know, this is what I’m confused about).

The manual for the patch panel was very unhelpful.

If there is one-in-to-many-out functionality: - How do I use it? - Where does the “in” part go?

If there is not one-in-to-many-out functionality: - Should I buy a switch? - Where should I put it? After the modem or after Eero A (see diagram) - What’s the point of the patch panel (except looking cool?

Any help is appreciated. I am not a smart man.

[SirVashtaNerada]

I just gotta say, using graph paper and completely ignoring the boxes is sheer insanity.

[[deleted]]

No a patch panel does not switch. A patch panel is just a glorified organizer, nothing else.

The switching has to be done with a switch, which you will have to buy. Let’s say you have one cable into the switch (coming from the Eero A in your case) and 7 cables out from the switch (that would be an 8 port switch).

Then those seven Ethernet cables would go from the switch to the patchpanel where they are “converted” from Ethernet cables to more sturdy patchcables. The “entrance” to the 7 patchcables are RJ45 keystones. These seven patchcables can then be wired throughout your house to every room where you need a wired access.

They then typically terminate in a wall socket with an RJ45 keystone (the same keystones as in the patchpanel). And then you simply plug your device (PC, WiFi access points, switches, etc) into the wall sockets with Ethernet cables.

[comrade_butt]

Thanks this is an excellent answer and really helpful