My setup will be similar to the image I created above. Let me summarize:
- My old Cat3 phone lines will be converted to ethernet by simply adding some ethernet plugs on the end of the cables.
- I'll then put a network switch in the 1st floor utility box, so the internet can be sent via Cat3 cable to "Bedroom A" and "Bedroom B".
- In bedrooms "A" and "B" I need to split the signal again to connect to multiple devices.
Now my question: I'd like all three network switches to be of the good and cheap variety. Something like the $15 TP-Link 5. Unfortunately - through my limited research - it seems daisy chaining these type of network switches in series is a bad idea.
So, do I need to buy three managed network switches, or three stackable network switches? They're hundreds of dollars each on Amazon! Or maybe I can get away with one managed network switch in the utility box and two cheaper network switches in the bedrooms? What is the solution to my problem?
I know ideally I would run a single line from one network switch to each device, but I don't want to have cables running everywhere in my house, and I don't want to tear up the walls either to run the lines. WiFi is off the table, and so is powerline adapters, but thanks for thinking of that. Something achieving my diagram above is preferable.
Note - Cat3 cable speed is sufficient for my needs.