RJ45
VS
RJ11
Connector Type
🏆 Winner: RJ45
⚡ Quick Answer

RJ45 is for Ethernet (wider). RJ11 is for phone lines (narrower). Use RJ45 for internet, RJ11 for landline phones.

Factor RJ45 RJ11
Use Case Internet/Ethernet Landline phone
Pins 8 pins 6 pins
Modern Use ✅ Standard Rare (phones dying)

RJ45

Ethernet connector (8 pins, wider).

✓ Pros

  • For Ethernet
  • 8 pins
  • Fast data transfer
  • Modern standard

✗ Cons

  • Doesn't work for phone
  • Bigger connector

RJ11

Phone line connector (6 pins, narrower).

✓ Pros

  • For phone lines
  • Smaller

✗ Cons

  • Can't use for Ethernet
  • Obsolete
  • Slow

The Verdict

RJ45 for all networking. RJ11 is only for old landline phones. They look similar but RJ45 is wider. You can't plug Ethernet into phone jack.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use RJ11 for internet?
No. RJ11 is for phone lines only (DSL modem uses it). For Ethernet, you need RJ45.

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Last updated: April 21, 2026 • Report an error

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