Patch Panel: Should I Use One?

[jam3ohio]

Hello--laying out my home gigabit network, getting ready to finish up the cat 6 cabling and am wondering: patch panel or not? I've run 17 cables and am using a 24 port Netgear switch (GS724AT)...aside from the neatness factor, what are the reasons to use a patch panel rather than plugging into the switch directly? Using these for data only with no plans to run VOIP.

Thanks!

[thiggins]

In homes, a patch panel is strictly a matter of preference. I used one (http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/content/view/24217/229/1/2/) because I hate terminating RJ45 plugs!

[scotty]

As Tim says, purely preference (and convenience). If you have everything in a relatively central place, I think it just makes sense and cleans everything up.

[jam3ohio]

Thanks, guys. Patch panel it is! It should keep things nice and neat. Found a great 24 port one on DeepSurplus.com. Appreciate the help! :)