a method of automatically configuring media connections when operating in forced speed and duplex mode , includes : connecting a first pair of connectors to a first pair of conductors and a second pair of connectors to a second pair of conductors during a first state , and connecting the first pair of connectors to the second pair of conductors and the second pair of connectors to the first pair of conductors during a second state ; and holding the first state or the second state if operating in forced speed and duplex mode , a defined time has not expired and another end of a link can receive a signal . an apparatus for automatically configuring media connections when operating in forced speed and duplex mode , includes : a media switch configured to connect a first pair of connectors to a first pair of conductors and a second pair of connectors to a second pair of conductors during a first state , and to connect the first pair of connectors to the second pair of conductors and the second pair of connectors to the first pair of conductors during a second state ; and a processor coupled to the media switch and configured to hold the first state or the second state if operating in forced speed and duplex mode , a defined time has not expired and another end of a link can receive a signal .