What is a patch panel primarily used for in network setups?

A patch panel is primarily used to facilitate the organization and management of network cabling by serving as a centralized point where all network cables from various devices, such as workstations and servers, can be connected and easily managed. This allows for efficient routing of those connections to switches, which in turn can manage data traffic between different devices on the network.

By utilizing a patch panel, network administrators can quickly change network configurations without needing to re-run cables or access specific equipment; they only have to access the patch panel. This makes it a practical solution for connecting work desks to switches, allowing for easy reconfiguration of the network layout as needs change.

While the other options reference important network functions, they do not accurately describe the primary role of a patch panel. Creating wireless connections is related to Wi-Fi infrastructure, routing traffic pertains to the functionality of routers and switches, and managing network security involves protocols and strategies that are broader than just cabling.