When you need to test your Ethernet cable, there are a few ways you can go about it. However, not all of these methods are the same. Some require expensive tools and equipment, while others don’t. You may also have to jump through hoops or wait for someone else’s help in order to complete the test.
This DIY guide will show you how to find out if your cable is broken without needing any special equipment or assistance from another person. It will walk you through the steps on how to do the simple test yourself using only items that everyone has at home.
How to test Ethernet cable without a tester
If you have a 3-pronged cable, then just plug one end into the wall and the other in your device. If you have a 2-pronged cable, then plug one end into your device and the other to the wall. Then, turn on your device and see if it’s working properly.
Make sure not to use your phone charger for this test. The power coming from a phone charger might be too low to work with some devices and could malfunction the connection.
Is it time for a new cable?
If you think your Ethernet cable is broken, it’s time for a new one. Here are some other instances where it may be time for a new cable:
•You’re having internet connectivity problems
•The connection between the modem and the router is spotty or unreliable
•You’ve recently moved to a new home and the internet connection doesn’t work in all rooms, or at certain distances from the router
•Your internet is slow or unstable
•Your current cables are too short for you to access multiple devices from different areas of your home
Conclusion
If you find that your Ethernet cables are not performing as well as they use to, it might be time for an upgrade. However, before you go out and purchase new cables, you can test them yourself to see if they are the root of the problem.
1. You will need a known working Ethernet cable that is of the same size, type, and length as the one you are testing.
2. Find a hard surface, preferably concrete or tile floor with no carpet.
3. Connect the two Ethernet cables together and plug one end into an active Ethernet port on your network device.
4. Plug the other end of the Ethernet cable into the port on your router that is next to the one you plugged in.
5. Turn on your network device and wait at least 30 seconds to give it time to connect to your router.
6. Check to see if both Ethernet ports are lit up, if they are then your cable is good to use. If they are not, then your cable is defective and needs to be replaced.
