Detecting unusual Ethernet ports involves checking for unexpected devices or configurations.
Detecting unusual Ethernet ports involves checking for unexpected devices or configurations.
In my university dorms each room comes with a wired internet connection, yet throughout campus the institution provides these unfamiliar connectors that I’ve never encountered before. There’s no information online about them. They don’t match the standard RJ45 type. The IT team explains that internet cables can only be purchased at the school store, which sells them in bundles priced at $42 for a 10-foot length—completely out of reach. I was hoping someone could help identify the port type so I might look for a more affordable alternative elsewhere. I’d rather avoid spending money at the school store, but my computer lacks a Wi-Fi card, so if I can’t find another solution, I might have no choice but to try. The school calls this special cable an "ALL-LAN Cable," though that doesn’t seem very useful. I’ve attached a photo of the connector; if additional images or details would assist, please let me know.
Seems like a proprietary model. It appears quite outdated given the wear on it. Honestly, if my campus had a strict control approach, I’d probably take off that cover and install my own Cat5e/Cat6 jack just for the term, then fix it later. I’m pretty sure it’s a standard Cat5e/Cat6 cable behind that cover. If you’re not comfortable with that idea, removing the cover might show a sticker or molded number on the connector side. That would confirm it’s a common connector and let you order the male end online.
I find this amusing: The college is trying to squeeze students by making Ethernet ports exclusive, pushing them toward our adapters or forcing Wi-Fi use (for security control). The idea of using generic screws on faceplates seems clever—logic and a solid 10/10 for hiring IT and security.
It's just one port, but we do have gigabit internet available. That means the connection quality should be good.
It seems the design isn't very efficient for an 8-pin port. Understanding which ISP provides internet could help, as they’re the only ones I can think of that could create this kind of custom port. The cost to produce it feels high, so why would they invest in such a specialized solution? Maybe the connector is made of plastic and inexpensive, and the port serves more as a payment method. It might still be worthwhile to resell the cables at a higher price, especially since it looks durable.
It seems they modified the design for extra difficulty. The keystone jack on the back probably matches a standard RJ45 punchdown.
I managed to get a cable via alternative methods, allowing me to access the internet. Still, my interest remains in understanding those ports. I captured an image of the unusual end of the cable. The label on the side states: "E132276-A (UL) CM 75 4PR 24AWG CSA LL64151-A CMG FT4 CAT .5E PATCH CORD --- FTP 350MHZ"