A communication port identification system enables an intelligent interconnect patch panel to reliably track connections to network switches. Network switch ports are provided with port ID modules that are inserted into the ports. Intelligent interconnect patch cords each utilize a patch cord microcontroller and out-of-band conductors to enable communication between an intelligent interconnect patch panel and the port ID modules of the switch port. Each port ID module is provided with a unique identification number, and the intelligent interconnect patch panel is thereby able to track all of its connections to the port ID modules in real time, and to update a network management system accordingly.