Is there any advantage to using a patch panel in a gigabit ethernet network? I'm pulling all new cables for less than 24 stations in a small business. The owner is questioning the need for the panel and wants RJ-45 plugs crimped right to the cables which will be plugged into the (cheap) Linksys SR2024 switch.
He's arguing that the fewer connections the better the reliability. I have to agree, but is there any reason I'm missing to use a patch panel in this situation?
Thanks,