Home remodel and home networking guide questions
Thanks @ThomasD - any recs as far as where to get Cat6a cables?
So you're saying to not go with a switch panel in my media room/closet, rather, just have a 5/8 port switch in the rooms with >2+ hardwired devices?
Thanks!
Cat 6a is a standard, so buy whatever bulk in-wall rated cable is least expensive and your installer is willing to pull. Buy an RJ-45 termination kit as well, then you can use the extra cable to make your own patch cables - much, much cheaper than buying commercial product. Make sure it includes a tester to verify your handiwork.
You'll still need a 'main' switch (the backbone) attached to your modem - that is where the run to each room you wish to service starts. Get something a little larger than your needs, but there is really no need to go haywire. Sixteen would probably be enough, but 24 might not be any more expensive, and If I were you I'd certainly want at least one run to the garage, the entrance area, the deck, etc. And would also treat the kitchen/living room as two separate rooms.
Once at the room that's where I suggest adding in small switches (the nodes) if you need to connect multiple devices within that room (e.g. you have a room where you want to connect a PC, and a Fire TV box, etc.) This, as opposed to making multiple cable runs to the same room. That way if your needs change you simply add or relocate the nodes as needed.
Overall the idea is to keep the in-wall installation simple, and logical, then expand out as needed.
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