How to Install Network Wall Plates and Keystone Jacks

After running your network cables, the final step is terminating them with keystone jacks and installing a wall plate. A properly installed wall plate creates a clean, professional appearance while protecting your network connections and making future maintenance easier.

Before getting started, you'll need to choose the right wall plate and mounting bracket for your installation. With several styles and mounting options available, selecting the right hardware can seem confusing at first. Fortunately, the process is straightforward once you understand the available options.

Choosing the Right Wall Plate

Wall plates are available in several styles and configurations. The best option depends on your installation environment, aesthetic preferences, and the number of network connections you need.

Stainless Steel Keystone Wall Plates

Stainless steel wall plates provide a clean, industrial appearance and are commonly used in commercial environments, server rooms, and industrial facilities. These plates are durable, resistant to wear, and often include built-in keystone mounting brackets for easy installation.

Standard Plastic Keystone Wall Plates

Standard plastic wall plates are the most common and cost-effective option. Available in a variety of colors and port counts, they are suitable for both residential and commercial installations.

Most standard wall plates are available in:

• Single-gang configurations
• Dual-gang configurations
• 1 to 12 keystone port openings

When possible, consider installing a wall plate with additional ports to accommodate future network expansion.

Decora-Style Keystone Wall Plates

Decora-style wall plates offer a modern appearance and greater customization options. These systems typically consist of two pieces:

• An outer decorative frame
• A removable keystone insert

The interchangeable design allows you to mix and match colors, port counts, and insert styles while maintaining a clean, contemporary look.

Selecting a Wall Mounting Bracket

Once you've selected a wall plate, you'll need a low-voltage mounting bracket to secure it inside the wall. Several options are available depending on your budget and installation requirements.

Metal Drywall Mounting Brackets

Metal mounting brackets are an economical choice for low-voltage cable installations. These brackets use flexible metal tabs that bend behind the drywall to hold the bracket in place.

While inexpensive and effective, they generally provide less support than newer plastic mounting designs.

Plastic Ratcheting Brackets

Plastic ratcheting brackets use adjustable locking tabs that tighten against the back of the drywall. Similar to the operation of a cable tie, these brackets provide a more secure fit than traditional metal brackets while remaining affordable.

Winged Low-Voltage Mounting Brackets

Winged mounting brackets are among the most secure and installer-friendly options available. As the mounting screws are tightened, rotating wings clamp firmly against the backside of the drywall, creating a strong and reliable installation.

These brackets are an excellent choice for both residential and commercial network installations.

Installing the Wall Mounting Bracket

Step 1: Locate Nearby Studs

Use a stud finder to identify nearby wall studs before cutting into the drywall. Mark their locations clearly.

You'll want to avoid placing the mounting bracket directly against a stud, as the bracket's retaining tabs require space behind the drywall to operate properly.

Step 2: Mark the Opening

Position the low-voltage mounting bracket against the wall where you want the network outlet installed.

Using a level, ensure the bracket is perfectly straight. Once aligned, trace the inside opening of the bracket onto the wall using a pencil or marker.

Take your time during this step, as accurate markings will make installation much easier.

Step 3: Cut the Drywall

Using a drywall saw, carefully cut along the outline you created.

For the best fit, cut just outside your marked lines to account for the thickness of the mounting bracket. Make slow, controlled cuts to avoid creating an oversized opening.

Step 4: Install the Mounting Bracket

Insert the mounting bracket into the opening and verify that it sits flush against the wall surface.

If the opening is too tight, carefully trim away small amounts of drywall until the bracket fits properly.

Once positioned correctly, tighten the mounting screws until the retaining wings or tabs secure the bracket firmly against the drywall.

Avoid overtightening, as excessive force can damage the bracket or crack the drywall.

Installing Keystone Jacks and the Wall Plate

With the mounting bracket secured, terminate your network cables into the appropriate keystone jacks according to the wiring standard being used, typically T568A or T568B.

Snap the keystone jacks into the wall plate and organize any excess cable within the wall cavity.

Position the wall plate over the mounting bracket and secure it using the included screws.

Once installed, verify that all connections are seated properly and that the wall plate sits flush against the wall.

Final Thoughts

Installing keystone wall plates is one of the final steps in any structured cabling project. Choosing the right wall plate and mounting bracket helps create a professional-looking installation while ensuring long-term reliability.

Whether you choose a standard plastic faceplate, a modern Decora-style solution, or a durable stainless steel wall plate, taking the time to install it properly will result in a clean and organized network connection point that will serve you for years to come.