How to Remove a Jammed Ethernet Cable

It happens. You're going about your day, and you need to remove your Ethernet cable. But alas, it's stuck! How did this occur, and how can you fix it?

What Happened -

The problem could come from a few different areas. For starters, it could be a defective Ethernet port on your computer. This isn't the most likely scenario, but it is a possibility. More than likely though, your Ethernet cable is damaged. The tiny plastic clip that you push down on to release the cable has probably broken off. It may have broken off all the way inside the Ethernet port, or it may be only slightly damaged. If it is only slightly damaged, then your chances of removing the Ethernet cable easily have just gone up.

Wiggle it Out -

With any luck, the Ethernet cable will not be jammed in too seriously. If this is the case, then you can try to gently "wiggle" the Ethernet cable out while pulling ever so slightly. Gently can not be stressed enough because you don't want to damage the Ethernet cable, or more importantly, you want to avoid breaking your Ethernet port. And if wiggling the Ethernet cable out doesn't work, then there are other things for your to try.

The Screwdriver Technique -

More than likely, wiggling out the Ethernet cable will not work. But never fear, there is another solution. Simply find a small flathead screwdriver and very carefully insert it underneath the Ethernet's plastic tip. This is the part of the cable that has more than likely broken off, and thus, the reason why you can't remove your Ethernet cable. By applying a small amount of pressure from underneath the cable and pulling at the same time, you will probably succeed at removing the Ethernet cable. It may take you a couple of tries, though.

Rip it out -

If all else fails, you can find a pair of pliers and try to forcibly remove the cable. This is obviously not the recommended strategy because you could not only damage the Ethernet cable, but you could also damage the Ethernet port on your computer. But if you really feel like a risk taker, then go ahead and try to remove it by force.

Take it to a Professional -

One lastly unpopular method (because it will cost money) is to take your computer to a professional. You'll have to disconnect your Ethernet cable from the modem that it's attached to in order to transport it. Or you could possibly just call a company like Geek squad, and have them come out to your home. Problem solved.

Having a jammed Ethernet cable can truly be inconvenient and frustrating. But it's not the end of the world. If you keep a cool head, then you shouldn't have any trouble deciding which of the above solutions will work best for you.