Network Technician how-to

How to Terminate and Test a Network Cable

Good terminations prevent intermittent problems.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Good terminations prevent intermittent problems. In short: strip; untwist; arrange, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Strip the cable jacket carefully.

  2. Untwist pairs only as much as needed.

  3. Arrange wires in the T568B order.

  4. Insert into the jack or connector and crimp.

  5. Test with a cable tester.

  6. Label both ends.

Safety reminders for network technicians

  • Follow change control for network changes
  • Use ladder safety in ceilings
  • Lift equipment carefully
  • Protect network credentials

IP address · Subnet · DHCP · DNS · Switch · Router: see the full network technician glossary.

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