I've got some Ethernet wall ports in my home that just won't connect. Sometimes my PC recognizes one of them, but it can't identify the network. I even plugged an old laptop directly into the router, and that works fine. However, when I plug it into the wall plates or the upstairs box, there's no recognition. The electrician insists everything is connected perfectly, but I'm starting to question if there's a problem with the wiring itself. I've tried everything software-related and tested with multiple Ethernet cables. Any advice would be appreciated!
5 Answers
You might want to check those panels closely. If there’s a switch involved, it should have power and be on. If you have a keystone and a punchdown tool, you could try reconnecting the wires to see if that fixes it. If that doesn't work, you may need to look at the main cable that goes from the garage; it might be the source of the issue.
What happens if you connect your laptop directly to the hub where the cables lead? That could help diagnose if the issue is with the wall outlets or if it has to do with the links to the box itself.
I tried that, but no luck. Still nothing comes through.
It sounds like your ports might be functioning, but with that matchbox in place, I suspect there’s a mix-up in how things are wired. You might want to use a port tester to check the signal from the router through to your outlets to see if everything is connected properly. That way, you'll know where the failure point is.
The electrician checked the wiring, but I think there's still a disconnect. Seems like the bottom ports aren't communicating properly!
Looks like you have a distribution box that’s set up for phone lines, which is part of why your network isn’t functioning. You will want to get an RJ45 crimped onto the blue cable and possibly replace that analog box with a proper Ethernet switch. Just ensure there's a power socket in that box to power the new switch.
Got it! I’ll look into getting the right setup with a new switch. Thanks for the recommendations!
Just to clarify, do you have any device connected to the patch panel where the wall jacks lead? It looks like your setup may have two separate panels; one for phone lines and another possibly for networking. Make sure your router's Ethernet port connects to the correct panel. That's likely where the wall plates get their signal.
The setup looks like the bottom box is connected to the cables going to each room, right? If there’s no other router up there, that could be a problem.
Just a heads-up: the top box is probably for old analog phones. If it’s not digital, you could just remove it. Make sure to keep your main panel separate for Ethernet connections.