Home Networking - extending connection to new wires

Question

I hope this is the appropriate place to ask this. I currently have internet going to a single network jack inside my house (downstairs), with a provider router connected to it.
I'd like to connect another existing cable (going upstairs) to the network. The downstairs cable is connected straight into the modem pictured below, and I'm wondering if it's possible for the upstairs cable to be plugged in here as well.
The issue I'm facing is IP configuration for devices connected to the modem, and I don't have much networking/telcom knowledge. It's my understanding that if the modem were to have a dhcp server, it would generate the settings for all devices connected to it, but that wasn't the case when I hooked up my laptop.
So do I have the option of connecting more than 1 cable to this modem, or will all my connections have to pass trough the provider router first?

John · Answer

So do I have the option of connecting more than 1 cable to this modem,
or will all my connections have to pass trough the provider router
first?

You would need to add a Router to the Modem. Bridge it so the router gets internet. Then you can distribute wires from it to sites in your house.
So the answer to your question is, Yes, you need a router (to distribute the signals in the house)
Followup Note: You do need a Router to distribute signals. It may be that your modem includes a router (some do). If so, you can also use this to fulfill the router need. I always prefer to add my own router for security, flexibility, and control over my own gear.

Home Networking - extending connection to new wires

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