An Ethernet cable can be terminated with RJ45 connectors, keystone jacks, or field termination plugs, but RJ45 connectors are the most common type. If you shop in a store online or offline, you may find a short network cable that has RJ45 (8P8C) connector on both ends, and that’s a patch cable. People often buy a patch cable to plug into the port of a router or computer. But why not DIY a patch cable yourself?

　　Terminating a CAT5E or CAT6 cable is very easy, especially for those who love installing home or small office networks. This post will teach you everything about terminating Ethernet cables with RJ45 connectors, including termination tips and common mistakes. Let’s make a perfect CAT6 cable like a pro!

　　About Copper Network Cable and RJ45 Connector

　　What are copper network cables and RJ45 connectors? Copper network cables usually feature eight copper wires twisted into four pairs. There are different Ethernet cable categories such as CAT5E, CAT6, and CAT8 cables. CAT6 cables can handle 10Gbps speed in short distances and are cost-effective to upgrade, so they are favored by many users nowadays. You’d better give Ethernet Cable 101 a read for a better understanding.

　　RJ45 connectors refer to “8P8C modular plugs”, and they are often used to be plugged into the router and computer for network connection. Know more about this tiny plug in RJ45 Connector 101.

　　Step-by-Step Guide: How to Terminate CAT6 cable?

　　Before terminating the CAT6 cable, here are some facts that you should know:

　　A Cat6 cable from one manufacturer is not always compatible with a Cat6 connector from another manufacturer.

　　In fact, the “Cable Category” does not matter on the market. The most important thing is whether your cable diameter fits the connector or keystone.

　　ProfessionalEthernet cable tools are necessary for cable termination for quick and easy operation.

　　Pass-thru RJ45 connectors are more recommended for novices as they are easier to operate than other standard RJ45 connectors.

　　Step 1: Materials and Tools Needed

　　Required materials and tools:

　　Bulk CAT6 cable (U/UTP)

　　Pass-thru RJ45 connector

　　Strain relief boot

　　Flush cutter (or even scissors)

　　Cable stripping tool

　　CAT6 crimping tool

　　If you have an RJ45 crimping tool with a built-in adjustable stripping tool, you don’t require an extra stripping tool for the CAT6 cable. But please note that this crimping tool cannot strip CAT5 or CAT5E cables. You can also replace the flush cutter with a pair of common scissors.