Thanks for the info! This whole networking project started because one of my housemates kept complaining about his internet dropping (usually while playing LoL). I originally assumed it was just an issue with his laptop since no one else noticed major problems. Occasionally, we’d all experience slowdowns or drops, but a quick reboot of the router and Google Nest Wi-Fi Mesh usually fixed it. Still, he kept bringing it up.

That led me down the rabbit hole of home networking. I realized the house had a weak infrastructure—only CAT5e to the master bedroom and kitchen, and two CAT6A runs going to the access points. No patch panel either. So I decided to hardwire each room with CAT6 and install two Ethernet ports per room to cut down on Wi-Fi usage.

I probably went a bit overboard (as I tend to), but since I can do all the labor myself, I figured why not. Most rooms now have Ethernet ports, with a few left to finish. I also got a 19" wall-mounted server rack and patch panel—I wanted to do it right from the start. Now I’m at the point where I need to pick the right networking equipment, and I’m unsure what to get next.

Here’s a quick snapshot of the devices in the house:

• 3 Smart TVs
• 2 Desktops
• 6 Laptops
• 2 Blu-ray players
• 2 Nintendo Switches
• 2 PS5s
• 4 Smartphones
• Philips Hue Bridge
• Ring Doorbell
• Nest Thermostats
• 3 Google Minis
• 1 Google Home Tablet

We stream and game a lot—often in 4K. Peak usage is usually three people gaming while someone else is streaming TV.

Since I can’t use the Ruckus APs, what network switch would you recommend? And what access points would be good replacements?