Standard RJ45 Connectors Explained - Crimping, Testing, Pros and Cons

Standard RJ45 connectors remain a popular choice for Ethernet cable terminations, especially for installers who value enclosed wire ends, broad tool compatibility, and long-term durability. This page explains how to crimp and test a standard RJ45 connector, along with the main advantages and disadvantages compared to easier connector styles. While standard RJ45 plugs can be more challenging for beginners, they are still trusted by many professionals for dependable results.

How Standard RJ45 Connectors Work and Why Some Installers Prefer Them

A standard RJ45 connector is one of the most common ways to terminate an Ethernet cable. Unlike pass-through designs, the wire ends stay enclosed inside the connector body. That gives the finished termination a clean look and can reduce concern about exposed conductors at the front of the plug.

In this video segment, the process begins after the wires have already been arranged and inserted into the connector. Once everything looks correct, the connector is inserted fully into the RJ45 crimping tool. The handle is then squeezed until the plug snaps into place, permanently securing the wires inside the connector.

Basic Crimping and Testing Process

• Insert the connector fully into the RJ45 crimping tool.
• Squeeze the handle until you hear a snap.
• Remove the connector from the tool and inspect the crimp.
• Use a network cable tester to confirm that all eight wires are connected correctly.
• If no tester is available, connect the cable to your network and verify that it works.

Testing is an important step because a cable may look correct from the outside while still having one or more conductors that did not seat properly. A cable tester is the fastest and most reliable way to confirm a successful termination.

Advantages of Standard RJ45 Connectors

Standard RJ45 plugs still have several strengths, which is why many installers continue to use them even when other connector styles are available.

One of the biggest practical benefits is universal tooling. Specialized pass-through connectors may require a matching tool, while standard RJ45 connectors often work with many common crimpers. That makes them a flexible option for both home users and professionals with existing tools.

The video also points out that some installers trust standard RJ45 connectors for long-term durability. This is especially relevant in patch panels, tight installations, or other areas where the cable may be bent or flexed more often over time.

Disadvantages of Standard RJ45 Connectors

Although standard RJ45 connectors have their strengths, they can be more frustrating for beginners. The hardest part is making sure all eight wires are even and fully seated inside the plug before crimping.

• They are more difficult for beginners to terminate correctly.
• It can be hard to confirm that every wire has reached the end of the plug.
• The process is often slower than easier connector styles.
• Mistakes may not show up until after crimping and testing.

This can lead to a common issue where the installer believes the termination is correct, crimps the plug, and only later discovers that one or more conductors did not fully reach the front contacts. That is why patience and careful inspection matter so much when working with standard RJ45s.

Who Should Use Standard RJ45 Connectors?

Standard RJ45 connectors are a good fit for installers who already have some experience terminating Ethernet cables, or for anyone who prefers a traditional enclosed connector design. They can also be a smart choice when long-term reliability matters more than installation speed.

For beginners, these connectors may require a little more practice. However, once the technique is learned, they can provide clean, durable terminations without relying on specialized pass-through cutting mechanisms.

In short, standard RJ45 connectors offer a solid balance of durability, compatibility, and proven performance. They may take more time to master, but many installers still consider them a dependable option for Ethernet cable terminations.