an electrical connector system includes mating pin and socket connectors each designed for increased contact density to improve performance of high - speed data transfer . the connectors include features for retaining a plurality of pin or socket contacts in a ganged , co - aligned configuration and for shielding groups of contacts from one another to reduce interference and crosstalk . the connectors further include features for providing strain relief to the internal wires and / or cables . one of the connectors may include a plug insert with cantilevered fingers extending therefrom that contact a conductive surface of the mating connector to provide a mechanical connection and a low - impedance pathway between the mating connectors for grounding and shielding . the connectors are designed to be readily assembled and disassembled for repair or rework without the use of special tools .