How to Splice Ethernet Cables

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Two or more sections of Ethernet cable can be spliced to create a longer cable.

Ethernet cables are used to connect two or more computers together in a wired network. While these cables are available in different lengths, situations may arise where the Ethernet cables that you have on hand aren't long enough to connect your computers. Should this occur, two cables can be spliced to create a longer Ethernet cable without fear of data loss. The splicing should only take a few minutes, after which the new cable should carry data across the network just as easily as either of the cables it was made from did previously.

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Step 1

Use your wire cutter to cut the two cables that you are splicing together, leaving each cable at least 1 to 2 inches longer than you need it to be.

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Step 2

Cut the outer insulation of each piece of Ethernet cable 3/4 of an inch from the end that you cut off previously, making sure that you do not cut into the wires contained inside. Remove this portion of insulation, leaving the wires visible.

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Step 3

Strip the ends of the individual wires, exposing approximately half an inch of each. Unwind the braided pairs only as much as you need to strip the wires.

Step 4

Wind the wires from one portion of the cable around the corresponding wires from the other, making sure that you match the colors of the insulation on each wire when doing so. Wrap electrical tape around each spliced wire when done.

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Step 5

Wrap additional electrical tape around the exposed wires, covering any portion of them that is not covered by the Ethernet cable's insulation. Once covered, the Ethernet cable is ready for use.

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