7 best ethernet switches

Name: BV-Tech 18 Ports PoE/PoE+ Switch (16 PoE+ Ports | 2 Gigabit Ethernet uplink) - 19 Rackmount - 135W - 802.3af/at
Brand: BV-Tech
Price: 109.99 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.4 (250 reviews)

Ethernet switches are fundamental networking devices used to connect multiple devices within a local area network (LAN). They play a critical role in directing network traffic efficiently, and here is what you should know about them:

Function:
- Ethernet switches operate at Layer 2 (Data Link Layer) of the OSI model and are responsible for forwarding data frames within a LAN.
- They make decisions based on MAC (Media Access Control) addresses, which are unique identifiers assigned to network devices.
Port Configuration:
- Ethernet switches come in various port configurations, including 5-port, 8-port, 16-port, 24-port, and 48-port models, among others.
- The number of ports determines how many devices can be connected directly to the switch.
Managed vs. Unmanaged Switches:
- There are two main types of Ethernet switches: managed and unmanaged.
- Unmanaged Switches: These switches are "plug-and-play" and require no configuration. They are ideal for simple setups and small networks.
- Managed Switches: Managed switches offer more control and configuration options. They are suitable for larger networks where administrators need to monitor and control network traffic, set up VLANs (Virtual LANs), and manage Quality of Service (QoS).
VLAN Support:
- Some managed switches support VLANs, allowing you to logically segment your network into separate virtual LANs. This helps improve network security and efficiency.
Quality of Service (QoS):
- QoS features in managed switches prioritize certain types of network traffic, ensuring that critical data, such as voice and video, gets higher priority for smoother performance.
PoE (Power over Ethernet):
- Certain Ethernet switches support PoE, which enables them to deliver power to connected devices like IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points through the Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for separate power sources.
Link Aggregation:
- Managed switches often support link aggregation (also known as port trunking) to combine multiple ports into a single high-speed connection. This increases both bandwidth and redundancy.
Network Monitoring and Management:
- Managed switches typically offer web-based interfaces or command-line interfaces (CLI) for configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
- Network administrators can use these interfaces to set up security features, monitor network traffic, and diagnose connectivity issues.
Rack-Mountable Switches:
- In larger network environments, switches are often rack-mounted for organization and efficient use of space in server rooms or data centers.
Compatibility:
- When selecting an Ethernet switch, consider the compatibility with your existing network equipment, such as routers, modems, and network cables.

Ethernet switches are essential components of modern networks, whether in homes, small offices, or large enterprises.They facilitate the efficient flow of data between devices and help ensure network reliability and performance. The choice between managed and unmanaged switches depends on the complexity of your network and your specific requirements.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best ethernet switches on the market

BV-Tech 18 Ports PoE/PoE+ Switch (16 PoE+ Ports | 2 Gigabit Ethernet uplink) - 19" Rackmount - 135W - 802.3af/at

BV-Tech

Based on 445 reviews Check latest price

16 PoE+ Ports at 10/100Mbps each, 802.3af/at
2 Gigabit Ethernet Uplink Ports at 10/100/1000Mbps each
135W Max Power (up to 30W per port), 6k surge protection
19” Rack-Mountable (via included extensions)
100% Satisfaction Guarantee – 30-day Money-Back Guarantee with 1 Year Warranty

User questions & answers

Question:	Will this power my cisco 7960 and 7960G phones
Answer:	Dear customer, Upon doing some research, it seems the Cisco phones mentioned are pre-IEEE standard and would require a specific card within a Cisco Catalyst switch to be powered - any other switch (including ours) will not be able to be power the phones. Thank you, Taylor PoE Depot
Question:	Can this take the heat if i place in the attic? What is the operating temp range on this device
Answer:	Not sure what the operating temp range is however if you are using it for cameras or up phones it will generate a bit of heat. It’s never a good idea to put a switch anywhere where there is little air flow or where the ambient temperatures go above 80 or below 40. I know, not much help.
Question:	Will this work with Amcrest PoE cameras
Answer:	Dear customer,As long as the cameras you are using are IEEE 802.3af or 802.3at compatible, then it is very likely this POE switch will work to power them.Thank you,TaylorPoE Depot
Question:	Will work with aps ubiquiti lr 24v
Answer:	Dear customer,Unfortunately BV-Tech PoE switches (including this one) do not support 24V / passive PoE as it is not a standard implementation; you would need a 24V injector from Ubiquiti or another 24V-compatible switch.Thank you,TaylorPoE Depot

Product features

About BV-Tech

BV-Tech specializes in a full security networking POE product line including PoE network switches, injectors and cables. We dedicate ourselves into offering customers affordable high-end products and reliable networking systems.

High Power & High Speed

802.3af/at, 135W Total Power
16 PoE+ Ports at 10/100Mbps each
2 Gigabit Ethernet Uplink Ports at 10/100/1000Mbps each

Minimalism Design

Fanless & Noiseless
User-friendly panel display
Compact size with internal power supply

Accessories all included

Power Cord
Rack mount Ear
Rubber Feet

Aumox 5 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch, Desktop, Unmanaged Ethernet Splitter, Durable Metal Casing, Traffic Optimization, Fanless Quite, Plug and Play (AM-SG205)

Aumox

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Stable Gigabit Speeds: Featured with 5 auto-negotiation gigabit ports, Aumox gigabit switch greatly expands your network capacity, enabling instant large files data transfer. Power users in the home, office or workgroup can move large, bandwidth files faster.
Lightning Protection for Ports: Integrated with professional a lightning protection that offers 6KV lightning protection to each port to effectively protect from lightning-induced current from damaging the ports or switch, so as to ensure the surveillance system stability.
Less Heat and Quiet: With a fine steel housing, Aumox ethernet switch features excellent durability, to ensure the stable use of the equipment. Give you more reliable outdoor security surveillance.
Flexible Design: Aumox ethernet splitter has a small wall-mounting design, easily positioned on your desktop or a wall. Easy to use, plug and play, no configuration required. The fan-less design quietly integrates with your office environment.
An ideal choice for SOHO network: It offers an economical way to increase bandwidth of Gigabit Ethernet, helps you to expand your network easily and upgrade your network to Gigabit connectivity.

User questions & answers

Question:	Can I put this into a cabinet safely? (e.g., should I be worried that it will overheat
Answer:	The 5 and 8 ports are fanless, 16 and above have fans. Just make sure you keep space all around the fanless ones for proper airflow.
Question:	can this be used to boost an ethernet sinal over 300ft of cable
Answer:	Yes, it has 8 POE+ ports. I noticed that for the AC LITE I had to manually change the port setting to 24V Passive instead of POE+ but the AP AC lit right up with the POE+ active.
Question:	This would be what I need for Google wifi mesh, since it only has one ethernet port
Answer:	The switch your looking at is the US-24 which is a non-poe switch. This is the US-24-250W ERP of $399.
Question:	can you plug this directly into your modem and then connect (wired) to router and pc etc
Answer:	AP and Camera POE matrix straight from Ubiquiti:https://help.ubnt.com/hc/en-us/articles/115005755567-UniFi-PoE-Switch-Compatibility-for-UAPs-and-UVCs

TP-Link 16 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch, Desktop/ Wall-Mount, Fanless, Sturdy Metal w/ Shielded Ports, Traffic Optimization, Unmanaged, Limited Lifetime Protection (TL-SG116) Black

TP-Link

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The TP-LINK 16-port 10/100/1000Mbps desktop switch provides you an easy way to make the transition to Gigabit Ethernet. Increase the speed of your network server and backbone connections, or make Gigabit to the desktop a reality. Plug and play Design, with no configuration required, makes the product easy to use. Moreover, TL-SG116 adopts lower power consumption design. With the innovative energy-efficient technology, the TL-SG116 can save power consumption, making it an solution for your home or office network. Windows; Mac; Linux; etc.

【One Switch Made to Expand Network】16× 10/100/1000Mbps RJ45 Ports supporting Auto Negotiation and Auto MDI/MDIX
【Gigabit that Saves Energy】Latest innovative energy-efficient technology greatly expands your network capacity with much less power consumption and helps save money
【Reliable and Quiet】IEEE 802.3X flow control provides reliable data transfer and Fanless design ensures quiet operation
【Plug and Play】Easy setup with no software installation or configuration needed
【Advanced Software Features】Prioritize your traffic and guarantee high quality of video or voice data transmission with Port-based 802.1p/DSCP QoS and IGMP Snooping

Product features

Gigabit Ports for More Reliable Speeds

Increase the reliability of your connected devices with the TL-SG116 16-port Gigabit desktop switch. 16x non-blocking gigabit ports enable instant transferring of large, bandwidth-intensive files without interference.

Multiple User Scenarios

The TL-SG116 Desktop Switch provides an easy way to increase the reliability of your network server connections. Whether needed for your home or office network, TL-SG116 helps you get business done easily.

A Switch Made to Connect

TL-SG116 can easily expand your network in a number of ways. Simply connect it to a WiFi device, such as a router or range extender, and transmit reliable internet to up to seven connected devices to experience better performance.

Premium Quality. Longer Life.

TL-SG116 features a durable and sleek high-quality casing, innovative green technology to save energy, and shielded ports to prevent static interference when transferring files.

Plug and Play

The plug and play design makes set up easier than ever before, no IT professional required. Each port features the auto-negotiation feature to sense the link speed of a network device and intelligently adjust to ensure compatibility and the best performance.

NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch, Desktop, Internet Splitter, Fanless, Plug-and-Play (GS208)

NETGEAR

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The NETGEAR GS208 8-Port Gigabit Switch is an ideal switch for your home network. It automatically connects to your router or modem using any port. With its stylish case, quiet operation and plug-and-play setup, it is a perfect upgrade to any home network.

ETHERNET PORT CONFIGURATION: 8 Gigabit ports
PLUG-AND-PLAY: Simple set up with no software to install or configuration needed
VERSATILE MOUNTING OPTIONS: Supports desktop or wall mount placement
SILENT OPERATION: The fanless design means zero added noise wherever its located, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments
BUILT TO LAST: Every NETGEAR network switch is rigorously tested for reliability, quality, and performance
8 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet ports, up to 10x faster than Fast Ethernet for maximum performance
Small and silent desktop form factor with fan-less design for quiet operation

User questions & answers

Question:	will this support an internet connection at 1000 mbps to multiple devices
Answer:	No you have to buy any cable you may need
Question:	Can it be mounted on a wall, does it have mount holes on the bottom
Answer:	No. The Cudy device is a Layer-2 switch. To share internet between two computers, you need a Router, which is a Layer-3 device.
Question:	what is the difference between NETGEAR 5-Port FS205 - NETGEAR GS105 ProSafe 5port- 10/100/1000 Mbps? thanks
Answer:	It runs off a DC 5V 0.5A power supply with a barrel connector. It may be possible to solder a USB plug instead of the power brick and power it, it should work, but I haven't tried it.
Question:	What's the difference in performance between NETGEAR 5-Port FS205 versus NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit GS205? One is 5 Port 10/100Mbps vs Gigabit. Meaning
Answer:	With an Ethernet switch, you use 1 port as the input and it will output to the other ports (in this case 4 ports) which can be used simultaneously.

Product features

Home & Small Business

Unmanaged: Plug and play solution to connect all your network devices without the complications of configuration or management software -- yet achieve a reliable and secure network.

Smart Managed Plus: Empowers growing small businesses with basic capabilities to configure, secure, and monitor their network beyond simple connectivity at an affordable cost - an ideal upgrade from unmanaged switches.

Small & Medium Business

Smart Managed Pro: For larger organizations requiring advanced configuration and refined control for secure setup, access, and management of complex business networks. Supports the needs of edge networking and automated management of prioritized voice, video, and data traffic.

Smart Cloud: Provides fully integrated management, visibility, and control from any device, anywhere. Advanced configuration and remote access using the NETGEAR Insight app and cloud portal for unparalleled flexibility.

Enterprise

Fully Managed: An affordable, powerful, and future-proof networking infrastructure designed for enterprise and campus networks, with core and edge networking, and AV-over-IP solutions. Includes integrated security, high availability, delivery optimization, and enhanced manageability.

NETGEAR 8-Port 10G Ethernet Plus Switch (XS708E) - with 1 x 10 Gigabit SFP+, Desktop/Rackmount, and ProSAFE Limited Lifetime Protection

NETGEAR

Based on 305 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The NETGEAR XS708E Smart Managed Plus Switch is designed for desktop or rackmount and features 8-Port 10G Ethernet, 1 x 10Gigabit SFP+ port (shared), ProSAFE Lifetime Protection and more.

ETHERNET PORT CONFIGURATION: 8 10G ports; Operating temperature: 0° to 50°C (32° to 122°F)
FLEXIBILITY FROM UPLINK PORTS: 1 x 1G/10G SFP+ port (shared)
CONFIGURATION & CONTROL: Management software with easy-to-use GUI interface offers basic capabilities to configure, secure, and monitor your network.
VERSATILE MOUNTING OPTIONS: Supports desktop or rackmount placement, and includes all the necessary mounting hardware in the box
WHISPER-QUIET DESIGN: Reduces fan noise to protect your home office or business environment.
PROSAFE LIFETIME PROTECTION: Covered by an industry-best Lifetime Limited Hardware Warranty, Next Business Day Replacement and 24/7 chat with a NETGEAR expert
ENERGY EFFICIENT: Designed to optimize power usage lowering its cost to operate. Most models are compliant with IEEE802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet mode.
BUILT TO LAST: Every NETGEAR Network switch is rigorously tested for reliability, quality, and performance.

Product features

Home & Small Business

Unmanaged: Plug and play solution to connect all your network devices without the complications of configuration or management software -- yet achieve a reliable and secure network.

Small & Medium Business

Enterprise

NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS105NA) - Desktop, and ProSAFE Limited Lifetime Protection

NETGEAR

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The NETGEAR GS105NA Unmanaged Desktop Switch features 5 Port Gigabit Ethernet, ProSAFE Lifetime Protection and more.

ETHERNET PORT CONFIGURATION: 5 Gigabit ports
PLUG AND PLAY: Simple set up with no software to install or configuration needed
VERSATILE MOUNTING OPTIONS: Supports desktop or wall mount placement
SILENT OPERATION: The fanless design means zero added noise wherever its located, making it ideal for noise sensitive environments
PROSAFE LIFETIME PROTECTION: Covered by an industry best Lifetime Limited Hardware Warranty, Next Business Day Replacement and 24/7 chat with a NETGEAR expert
ENERGY EFFICIENT: Designed to optimize power usage lowering its cost to operate; Most models are compliant with IEEE802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet mode
BUILT TO LAST: Every NETGEAR Network switch is rigorously tested for reliability, quality, and performance

Product features

Home & Small Business

Unmanaged: Plug and play solution to connect all your network devices without the complications of configuration or management software -- yet achieve a reliable and secure network.

Small & Medium Business

Enterprise

NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS305) - Home Network Hub, Office Ethernet Splitter, Plug-and-Play, Fanless Metal Housing, Desktop or Wall Mount

NETGEAR

Based on 20 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The NETGEAR 5 Port Gigabit unmanaged Switch provides an easy, reliable, and affordable way to expand your network connections in homes and small offices. It is plug and play and features a rugged metal case. Features also include Auto MDI/MDI, LED indicator on Each port, energy effi¬cient technology, fan less design, auto negotiation and non blocking switching architecture.

Plug and play: Simple setup with no software to install or configuration needed
Versatile mounting options: Supports desktop or wall mount placement
Silent operation: The Fanless design means zero added noise wherever its located, making it ideal for noise sensitive environments
Peace of mind warranty – Covered by an industry leading 3 year limited hardware warranty
Energy efficient: Designed to optimize power usage, lowering its cost to operate; Most models are compliant with IEEE802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet mode
Built to last: Every Netgear Network switch is rigorously tested for reliability, quality, and performance

User questions & answers

Question:	I am using cat 8 cables. Will this product work? If not what other switch do i need
Answer:	It should work fine. Keep in mind this is a gigabit switch and cat8 would more typically be used for 10gb networking but its all compatible.
Question:	Should this connect to arris tg1672g without any configuration on either side? the arris combines "..a 4-port gigabit router.." not working for me
Answer:	Your configuration should look like this: (Internet) Cable -> ARRIS TG1672G -> Port 1, 2, 3, or 4 -> Netgear 8-Port Switch Your Cable Modem provides 4 Gigabit Ethernet Ports and when you connect the Netgear 8-Port switch you lose 2 ports (one on the cable modem & one on the Netgear and end up with 10 Gigabit Ethernet Ports instead of 4. No configuration is needed. If one of the devices you're adding is a Wi-Fi router, then your configuration will look like this: (Internet) Cable -> ARRIS TG1672G -> Port 1 -> Wi-Fi Router -> Netgear 8-Port Switch. If you want all devices to be able to see each other, then you can have up to 7 of them plugged into the Netgear Router.
Question:	Do i have to have 1gig internet speed to have this or no
Answer:	No. It's top speed is Gigabit (1000 Mbps), but it will work with 10/100 Mbps devices well. It's not just limited to Internet but any devices that wish to communicate with each other i.e. computer to Network Attached Storage (NAS) device, etc ... and usually those devices have gigabit Ethernet ports so they can communicate with each other at the gigabit speeds.
Question:	how to get plug and play to work? 14 ports not putting out IP, have modem and wifi router connected, but cant get other ports to work
Answer:	Make your flow as follows: Modem -> Wi-Fi Router -> Netgear 16-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch. All your devices (up to 15 of them) will get their IP address from the Wi-Fi Router. You may also want to consider labeling your cables. I have two 16-port switches, one Unmanaged (for Internet) and one Managed (for private network), and all the cables are both color-coded and labeled.