How to Turn an Ethernet Cable Into a Crossover

Crossover cables eliminate the need for a switch.

Crossover cables connect two or more networking devices together directly without using a router. This is useful in applications in which you would like to establish a local network but don't have the need or financial resources for a switch. Unlike Ethernet cables, crossover cables have a different wire arrangement you must conform to, in which the second and third pairs are switched.

Things You'll Need

• Crimp tool with Ethernet attachment
• Two Ethernet plugs
• Wire stripper

Instructions

1. Strip the Ethernet cable's insulation off on both ends and remove the plugs.

2. Strip each wire so that about one centimeter of copper wire remains.

3. Arrange the wires on either end so that the white and orange wire comes first, the orange wire comes second, the green and white wire comes third, the blue wire comes fourth, the blue and white wire comes fifth, the green wire comes sixth, the brown and white wire comes seventh, and the brown cable sits at the right end. The order of the cables must come left to right, when facing the Ethernet port.

4. Nest the wires into the plug and use a crimp tool to push the tab on the plug on the cables. Do this to both ends of the cable.