A fail-to-wire (FTW) module that preserves a primary data path connection from an upstream computer to a downstream computer if there is any kind of failure in a breakout data path to a breakout system. The FTW module provides switches between the incoming data network data and the breakout system such that when the breakout system encounters a failure, the switches are de-activated to bypass the breakout system. The switches in the FTW module are activated by a system health signal from the breakout system. The breakout system can be serviced without interrupting the data network connections since the FTW module can be extracted from the failed breakout system with data network connections intact. The FTW module is preferably a compact modular element that fits within the breakout chassis and is easily inserted and removed from the breakout system during servicing operations.