A port (such as, but not limited to, an RJ45 port) may comprise a cavity having a plurality of pins and an electrostatic discharge element coupled to a system ground. As the plug is inserted into the cavity, the electrostatic discharge element contacts the plug prior to the plug coming into electrical contact with the port pins and provides a discharge path to the system ground during a cable discharge event. Once the plug is fully inserted within the port, the electrostatic discharge element does not electrically contact the plug or the port pins and therefore has substantially no affect on the normal connection between the port and the plug.
