tech sectionWhile it's often easiest to buy your network cable ready to go, sometimes you need to make your own for a custom length or installation. Also called CAT 5 cable, CAT 6 cable, ethernet cable, or just the thing that connects your computer to the internet or a netwok -- any way you say it, even a beginner can make their own.
Purchase a high quality crimping tool that fits RJ45 connectors. Also purchase more RJ45 connectors than you actually need, as inevitably some will have to be re-done.
Choose between CAT 5, CAT 5e, or CAT 6 cable. For almost any purpose other than the fastest and newest networks, CAT 5 will be fine.
Strip 1/2" to 3/4" of the outer shielding on the cable end, being sure not to cut the insulation of the stranded wires inside. A good quality crimping tool should make this easy, otherwise you can gently use a knife or wire cutters.
Untwist the twisted pair wires just enough to line them up properly, and no more. Once untwisted, do not re-twist the wires yourself. There is no need to strip the insulation from the individual wires.
Arrange the wires from left to right in this order: white with orange stripe, solid orange, white with green stripe, solid blue, white with blue stripe, solid green, white with brown stripe, solid brown.
Clip the ends of the wires such that they are all the same length.
Slide the wires into the RJ45 connector with the prong facing downward (away from you). Ensure the wires have lined up in the order you intended, and that they push all the way to the end of the plug.
Insert the plug in the crimping tool, and squeeze hard to crimp the plug.
