A behind-the-wall optical connector having an outer housing configured to be inserted into an adapter with a corresponding inner surface, and a latch attached to one side of housing configured to lock the connecter into an adapter opening. The latch is further configured with a locking channel and guide to accept a pull tab with a catch at one end, the pull tab releases the connector from the adapter opening when the tab is pulled rearward or away from the adapter. The ferrule assembly is inserted into a first end of the housing and when latched to the adapter, the assembly is retained in the housing without any locking structure therein.