Are you expecting dead connections, spotty speeds, and loose wall plates? If yes, then these are signs that something’s wrong with your Ethernet cable. If it’s running behind drywall, you may worry the fix will be a mess. The good news is that replacing the Ethernet cable isn’t as hard as it sounds.
This guide shows you how to replace an Ethernet cable in the wall cleanly, safely, and without tearing up your space. Whether you're fixing a broken line or upgrading to Cat6 or Cat7, you'll get the steps and tips you need to get back online fast, with no extra wires hanging around.
How Often Should Ethernet Cables Be Replaced?
Most Ethernet cables can last 10 to 15 years under good conditions. However, wall-installed cables can wear out earlier. Moisture, pests, heat, or rough pulls during installation all shorten their life. If your connection cuts in and out, replacing the cable might fix everything.
Also, older Cat5 cables may bottleneck speed. If you're upgrading to faster internet, a new cable run may help you get full performance. Most importantly, it’s not just about age, as the quality of the install and the demands of your current gear also matter.
How to Replace an Ethernet Cable Through Walls?
Replacing a wall cable means taking out the old one and running a fresh line through the same path. Sounds easy until the wire won’t budge or the walls don’t cooperate. Nevertheless, with some patience and the right tools, it’s very doable.
Tools You Will Need
Start by grabbing the tools that make the job smoother:
- Fish tape or fiberglass wire puller
- Ethernet cable (Cat6 or higher)
- Wall plate and keystone jack
- Screwdriver and utility knife
- Cable tester
- Painter’s tape
- Label stickers
Make sure the cable length is a bit longer than your wall-to-wall measurement to avoid stress on connectors.
Plan Your Route
You don’t always need to open up the wall. Most homes have a path from the attic, crawl space, or baseboard. If you can find where the current Ethernet cable enters and exits, you’re in luck.
Map the shortest route and avoid power lines and HVAC ducts, as it helps reduce interference and lowers heat damage over time. If running across floors or ceilings, go above or below baseboard height for cleaner routing.
Remove the Old Cable
Start at the wall plate, remove it with a screwdriver, and gently pull back the existing Ethernet cable. If you’re lucky, it’ll move freely. If not, go to the other end (attic, basement, or crawl space) and try pushing instead.
If the wire is stuck, avoid yanking. You could break it inside the wall. Cut it and run the new one with running ethernet cable through walls techniques.
Install Ethernet Cable in the Wall
Here’s where knowing how to run Ethernet cable through the wall pays off. Attach the new cable to the end of the old one with tape, tight, smooth, and straight. Then gently pull from the other end. If that doesn’t work, use fish tape.
Push it through the wall from one side until it appears on the other side. Tape the Ethernet cable to the end, then pull it back. Once the wire is through, connect the keystone jacks, test the cable, and screw the wall plates back in.
Additional Expert Tips for a Clean, Reliable Installation
Clean installs last longer and look better. Following how to run ethernet cable through a wall guides helps, but it’s the little choices that prevent problems later. Below are pro tips that take the guesswork out of cable installs.
1. Use High-Quality Cables
Cheap cable breaks. Therefore, it is best to choose solid copper Cat6 or better, and not copper-clad aluminum. Shielded cable helps reduce interference, especially near other wires or appliances.
2. Respect the Bend Radius
Never force the cable into sharp turns. It is vital to keep curves smooth and gradual. Too much bending can weaken internal wires and kill signal strength over time.
3. Separate from Electrical Lines
Avoid running Ethernet parallel to power cables. If you must cross them, do so at 90 degrees. This cuts down electrical noise that can mess with performance.
4. Inspect Jacks and Plates
Old wall plates or jacks can cause loose connections. It is why you should replace cracked or damaged ones. A how to run an ethernet cable through a wall job isn’t complete if the ends don’t stay snug.
5. Keep a Pull String for the Future
Leave a string on the wall behind the new cable. Next time you replace or upgrade, you’ll thank yourself. It makes future pulls 10 times easier.
Final Thoughts
Replacing a wall cable seems like a big task, but it’s manageable with the right steps. You now know how to replace an Ethernet cable in the wall, what tools help, and how to avoid future headaches.
Replace damaged or outdated cables today with support from TS Cables as your trusted source for quality cabling and installation gear.
FAQs
How long does it take to replace an Ethernet cable in a wall?
1–2 hours if the path is clear and the tools are ready.
Can I run Ethernet through the same hole as power lines?
No. Keep Ethernet at least 6 inches from electrical lines to avoid interference.
What’s the best cable type for in-wall use?
Use Cat6 or higher with solid copper and in-wall (CMR or CMP) rated sheathing.
Do I need a wall plate after replacement?
Yes. Wall plates secure the cable end and protect it from wear and movement.
Is it okay to run Ethernet near HVAC ducts?
Avoid it if you can. The heat and vibrations can degrade cable performance over time.
