Patch panels bundle multiple network ports together to connect incoming and outgoing lines including those for local area networks. When patch panels are part of a LAN, they can connect computers to other computers and to outside lines. Those lines, allow LANs to connect to wide area networks or to the Internet. To arrange circuits using a patch panel, you simply plug and unplug the appropriate patch cords. Troubleshooting problems are simplified with patch panels since they provide a single location for all input jacks.