My wife and I moved into a house with Ethernet wall jacks in several rooms. I'd like to connect my computer by wired Ethernet, but plugging it into a wall jack gives me no network connection. I understand that the other ends of those wall jacks need to be connected to the router, but I can't find where the cables come together. The modem's Internet connection is already plugged into the router's Internet/WAN port. Where should I look, and how can I identify the correct cables?
2 Answers
The other ends are probably gathered in a utility area such as the laundry room, garage, basement, attic, or near the water heater. Look for a panel or a large bundle of Ethernet cables, often close to where the internet service enters the house. Each cable needs to be connected to one of the router’s numbered LAN ports, either directly or through an Ethernet switch. The modem-to-router Internet connection is separate and should stay as it is.
If you can’t tell which cable goes to which room, an Ethernet cable tester or toner can help. Plug the remote end into a wall jack, then test the cables in the utility area until you find the matching one. Once identified, connect that cable to a numbered LAN port on the router or to a network switch. The wall jacks also need to be properly terminated, and Ethernet wiring should run individually back to the central location rather than being daisy-chained.
Pictures of the wiring panel and the wall jack would make it easier to identify. Be careful not to confuse Ethernet cables with coaxial, telephone, or alarm wiring.
I found a bundle near the incoming wiring, but the cables disappear upward into the wall. That may be the distribution point, so I’ll inspect it more closely.