An Ethernet switch allows multiple computers and devices to connect to a computer network. Investing in this type of equipment is a reliable and inexpensive option for expanding an existing computer network. But with so many Ethernet switches on the market, finding the best one is no easy task. In order not to regret your purchase, we invite you to read this guide.
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Our selection
"The TP-Link TL-SG1016D is a state-of-the-art unmanageable Ethernet switch. Consisting of 16 ports, it benefits from a non-blocking architecture with up to 32 Gbps auto…"
"The D-Link DGS-105 is an Ethernet switch with 5 RJ45 ports. This allows it to create a network with a transfer rate of up to…"
"The Netgear GS316 PP features 16 Gigabit ports with Power-over-Ethernet support to deliver optimal throughput to every device connected to the network. Reliable and simple,…"
"Perfect for Ethernet network expansion, the Yanley YS2083 GS-P is an Ethernet switch equipped with 11 ports, including 8 POE Ethernet ports, 2 RJ45 top…"
The TP-Link TL-SG1016D is a state-of-the-art unmanageable Ethernet switch. Consisting of 16 ports, it benefits from a non-blocking architecture with up to 32 Gbps auto MDI/MDIX compatible switching.
55,92 £ on AmazonThe TP-Link TL-SG1016D is a desktop Ethernet switch, classified as gigabit and rackmountable. Featuring 16 RJ45 Ethernet ports and Auto MDI/MDIX support, it has standard IEEE 802.3x compatible flow control for simultaneous and alternate bidirectional link mode. This feature reduces traffic congestion with optimal data transmission. Equipped with a non-blocking architecture, the switch features a switching capacity of up to 32 Gbps with an 8K MAC addressing table for larger networks.
It is a switch oriented to allow better transfer to Gigabit Ethernet over the network ranging from 10, 100 to 1000 Mbps. It even has an intelligent function with auto-negotiation of each port on the connection speed. This adjusts each connected device for proper compatibility and performance. Plug and Play, this Ethernet switch includes automated functions for quick and easy installation.
The D-Link DGS-105 is an Ethernet switch with 5 RJ45 ports. This allows it to create a network with a transfer rate of up to 2,000 Mbps. Featuring a metal housing, it is built to last with amazing performance.
17,08 £ on AmazonThe D-Link DGS-105 performs well despite its price point. Equipped with 5 RJ45 ports, this Ethernet switch has a switching capacity of up to 10 Gbps. This device allows you to create a network quickly and easily by connecting your Ethernet devices without the need for complex configuration thanks to its Plug and Play installation. It integrates the IEEE 802.1p QOS standard in order to take advantage of better network traffic management with data organization and prioritization.
With a metal casing, the D-Link DGS-105 has an autosensing function to optimize its performance by determining the maximum throughput of each connected device. It also has an Ethernet cable diagnostic function that performs a microtest on the quality of the cables connected to its ports. With a power consumption of 3.1W, the Ethernet switch also benefits from D-Link Green technology, which saves energy and extends its life.
The Netgear GS316 PP features 16 Gigabit ports with Power-over-Ethernet support to deliver optimal throughput to every device connected to the network. Reliable and simple, this Ethernet switch adopts Plug-and-Play architecture.
168 £ on AmazonPerfect for expanding your network, the Netgear GS316PP is an Ethernet switch with 16 Gigabit ports. Supporting Power-over-Ethernet or POE+, it delivers high performance to every connected device. For ease of use and reliability, this switch is Plug and Play, which ensures easy installation without the need for configuration or software. Note that the POE+ technology can power devices such as IP security cameras, VoIP phones as well as Wi-Fi access points etc.
With a switching capacity of 32 Gbps, the Netgear GS316PP features Auto MDI/MDIX and auto-negotiation technologies. Its non-blocking architecture ensures automatic connection at maximum throughput between the switch and the connected device. For proper wired network sharing, the Ethernet switch follows the QOS 802.1p standard and is IEEE 802.3az compliant. It is worth mentioning that this model supports the power saving function to reduce its power consumption.
Perfect for Ethernet network expansion, the Yanley YS2083 GS-P is an Ethernet switch equipped with 11 ports, including 8 POE Ethernet ports, 2 RJ45 top ports as well as one SFP port. It features an unmanaged plug and play design.
63,99 £ on AmazonAny specific needs?
The best entry-level Ethernet switch
The best high-end Ethernet switch
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| THE BEST | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | ALTERNATIVE | |
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| OUR SELECTION |
TP-Link TL-SG1016D
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D-Link DGS-105
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Netgear GS316 PP
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YuanLey YS2083GS-P
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The TP-Link TL-SG1016D is a state-of-the-art unmanageable Ethernet switch. Consisting of 16 ports, it benefits from a non-blocking architecture with up to 32 Gbps auto MDI/MDIX compatible switching.
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The D-Link DGS-105 is an Ethernet switch with 5 RJ45 ports. This allows it to create a network with a transfer rate of up to 2,000 Mbps. Featuring a metal housing, it is built to last with amazing performance.
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The Netgear GS316 PP features 16 Gigabit ports with Power-over-Ethernet support to deliver optimal throughput to every device connected to the network. Reliable and simple, this Ethernet switch adopts Plug-and-Play architecture.
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Perfect for Ethernet network expansion, the Yanley YS2083 GS-P is an Ethernet switch equipped with 11 ports, including 8 POE Ethernet ports, 2 RJ45 top ports as well as one SFP port. It features an unmanaged plug and play design.
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Number of ports
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16 Ethernet ports
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5 Ethernet ports
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16 Ethernet ports & POE+
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8 Ethernet & POE+ ports; 2 Ethernet ports; 1 SFP
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Switching capacity
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32 Gbps
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10 Gbps
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32 Gbps
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12 Gbps port
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Installation
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Plug and Play
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Plug and Play
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Plug and Play
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Plug and Play
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Dimensions
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294 x 180 x 44 mm
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100 x 98 x 28 mm
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286 x 102 x 27 mm
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200 x 118 x 44 mm
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Warranty
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Lifetime Warranty
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5 years
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3 years
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2 years
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An Ethernet switch is purchased to extend a wired network. To meet your specific needs, the number of Ethernet ports will be a key factor in optimizing your choice of Ethernet switch. However, everything will depend on the installation you wish to make in relation to the number of users planned and the peripherals installed once the network is extended. Indeed, the number of ports on a switch ranges from 2 to 48 Ethernet sockets, or even more depending on the price.
To get the right Ethernet switch, list all of your devices and appliances that are intended to share the network and have Ethernet ports. But when it comes to switches, the port formats can vary: basic RJ45 Ethernet ports, SFP and SFP+ optical ports, ports designed for inter-switch stacking, or ports for connecting the NAS storage server. Therefore, it is recommended to carefully consider the format that best fits your installation.
This is another important criterion for the efficiency and performance of your computer network. Indeed, the speed of the Ethernet switch will be related to the use you make of it. In reality, the Ethernet switch does not create the speed or throughput, but will be used to manage it according to the sending and receiving devices. The speed of your switch will then be defined according to the network flow or its capacity to circulate data. So for a fast execution of your tasks, try to find a switch that is both efficient and powerful.
To make an excellent investment on Ethernet switch, try to focus on 10/100/1000 Mbps ports that allow automatic detection of the optimal flow provided between sending and receiving devices. For your information, a 10 Mbps network will handle lighter tasks such as emails, the 100 Mbps network will be used for medium and small file transfers up to 150 MB. And the 1,000 Mbps network will be used for heavier tasks like video transfers.
At this level, you will be facing 2 kinds of Ethernet switches, including the unmanageable model and the manageable model. Concerning the unmanageable model, it will be mainly about the quality to manage the priority of a service. This function will be used to automatically order and prioritize each task according to the bandwidth. Here, we will refer to auto-negotiation and QoS or Quality of Service. It will also allow to avoid interferences and to prioritize the activities by order of importance.
As for the manageable model, you should check the availability of a management and administration interface. This is a function that will allow you to configure your Ethernet switch in relation to the bandwidth used by each device connected to the network. It will also allow you to monitor the devices and peripherals connected to the Ethernet switch. In the absence of an administration interface, perform the management via the web through a browser or a dedicated application.
The additional functions will be decisive to better guide you in your choice, especially according to a certain quality-price ratio. They will define points in addition to the quality and power of an Ethernet switch. However, some Ethernet switches will have the advantage of having POE or POE+ ports also called Power Over Ethernet. This function allows both to benefit from a network connection and to supply some peripherals with energy. Then there is the Auto-MDI/MDIX function, which allows you to adapt the types of connections or cables to the Ethernet switch standard.
Note that there are two types of cables: crossed and straight. And finally, the availability of security features by default such as IGMP Snooping, which will allow the optimization of multicast or multicast frames. This function will protect against the risk of information leakage on the network. It will also prevent unnecessary waste of bandwidth by eliminating unnecessary data transfers. This is a factor designed to secure your data.
These criteria may seem less important, but you need to consider them because of a proper and less imposing installation to your setup. The installation of an Ethernet switch requires space considering the number of ports it is going to have. Indeed, the more ports there are, the larger and more important the switch will be. Thus, the shape and design will be defined by the number of Ethernet ports you need.
However, there are different shapes and designs of Ethernet switches, including mini-switches with about 4 to 5 Ethernet ports, flat-shaped switch models with aligned ports, and multi-port models with bouncy shapes with ports stacked in parallel. You will also be confronted with desktop models, rackmountable models, or models with the availability of a wall mount. So your choice will depend on your installation and your needs. It should be noted that with multiple Ethernet ports, you will need to consider the number of cables connected to your switch.
An Ethernet switch is a piece of equipment designed to establish a network connection between multiple devices and peripherals such as computers, printers, IP cameras, game consoles and other intelligent devices. It operates over a wired Ethernet network, acting as a central hub that broadcasts data and information between devices.
The use of an Ethernet switch is essential when the number of connected devices becomes significant. Indeed, it will allow to optimize and manage the flow of information of the various devices constituted in the computer network. Taking the form of a multi-socket bridge, the Ethernet switch is essentially used to receive, process, redirect and then share information from the computer network.
The unmanageable switch is the most basic type and the simplest to install. Plug and play, it does not require any configuration or settings for network extension. To take full advantage of its functions, all you have to do is connect it to the peripherals or devices via Ethernet cables.
The unmanaged switch will allow devices and peripherals to communicate with each other with a network connection as well as routing data on a fixed and default configuration. In general, the number of Ethernet ports varies from 5 to 16 ports. They are mainly designed for home networks and small businesses that handle less sensitive information and do not require management or monitoring of the network status.
The advantage of this type of switch lies in its simplicity of installation, offering a better alternative for network expansion without the need for IT administrators. In addition, compared to its price, it represents a more economical investment and the cheapest in its category.
The disadvantage is that without a management interface, the network can become saturated with a large number of devices connected to the network. Although affordable and simple, the unmanaged Ethernet switch has the shortcoming of handling the network flow identically at each Ethernet port without the ability to prioritize when needed. To this end, it cannot provide security functionality while processing information.
The manageable switch offers complete management with precision control of the Ethernet network. It also allows to prioritize the data flow according to the ports with the possibility to secure the network connection sharing. Indeed, the manageable switch will offer functions designed for the organization of a reliable network with the ability to prioritize as well as partition the information flow.
Upon installation, you can configure it to manage its operation via a web interface or with a dedicated application. It can also optimize speed and resource usage by prioritizing certain ports over others. At this level, these functions will define options such as VLAN, QoS, IP routing, CLI or SMNP. Managed switches are especially suitable for users with high bandwidth requirements for the extension of a large and complex Ethernet network.
The managed switch has the advantage of managing and identifying data and information flow failures in case of multicast or broadcast traffic on the network. To this end, it will allow to establish an optimal security level of the ports, the adequate speed of each port. It will also ensure user access control with the necessary bandwidth allocation to each port.
Its only drawback is the configuration management which requires good computer skills when using it because of its many additional features. Ideal for a customized and enhanced network extension, investing in a manageable switch is a much more expensive option to purchase.
The smart switch, also called intelligent switch, offers an excellent compromise between the 2 previous models. This network equipment also embeds Plug and Play technology with advanced autoconfiguration by default. Partly manageable, it allows less complex network management and control but will be much more limited compared to the manageable model.
However, the architecture of the smart switch will allow access to basic options such as quality of service and VLAN to optimize the security of the network flow. The smart switch offers management of its functions via a web browser, allowing control of each port as well as VPN. However, this type of switch is suitable for a medium-sized network extension with a maximum of 24 Ethernet ports and is managed individually, not in groups.
The advantage of the smart switch is that it is equipped with all the basic features and a very simple network management interface. Moreover, its use does not require qualified personnel for installation and configuration.
Its only shortcoming is that its functionality is quite limited and it is only suitable for smaller network extensions with a maximum of 8 to 24 Ethernet ports. With a more or less manageable system, it cannot access SNMP and CLI management options.
The Ethernet switch, also called Ethernet switch, is a kind of Ethernet multi-socket consisting of several ports designed for network flow as a receiver to broadcast information on the network. This device is used for computer networking to extend a computer network by connecting multiple devices or appliances with Ethernet ports.
An Ethernet switch works by using MAC addresses for the flow of data on the network with first the reception, then the processing to come to the transmission of information. It can also contribute to the security of the network and the protection of the data flowing on the network. Designed for computer network extension, an Ethernet switch can consist of several ports ranging from 4 to hundreds of Ethernet ports.
Thus, an Ethernet switch will be the best solution to a local network extension. To its advantage, it will also have features to distribute data intelligently with network control and security. Although affordable and secure, an Ethernet switch has the drawback of being bulky depending on the number of Ethernet ports and Ethernet cable that will be connected to it.
The router is a device or appliance that will allow communication between a local network and the Internet. Indeed, just like an Ethernet switch, a router can connect several devices and Ethernet switches in order to create a much larger network accessing the Internet. It even has the ability to protect and manage the flow of information against security threats.
As a rule, this device is designed to physically connect to a modem or an Internet box in order to establish the connection of several devices simultaneously to the Internet. As for its operation, the router makes use of IP address to play the role of a gateway in connecting devices to the Internet.
To its advantage, the router often has built-in switches to expand the functions of a switch to connect multiple devices via Ethernet cables. Some routers even have Wi-Fi connection. Its only drawback is a limited number of Ethernet ports ranging from 2 to 10 ports maximum. Although very convenient and easy to access the Internet, the router remains vulnerable to the risk of cyber attack without the management and monitoring interface.
An Ethernet switch represents the best alternative for a more consequent local network extension with more assurance to the security of your network flow. However, it will only be limited to broadcasting via Ethernet cable. The option of a router will also allow network sharing and also communication between a local network and the Internet as a gateway while enjoying wireless functionality via a Wi-Fi signal. Thus, the choice will depend on your needs and your computer network project. But be aware that the 2 devices can be combined.
The Ethernet switch defines an Ethernet power strip function connecting multiple devices and peripherals for computer network extension. In addition, opting for this type of device has several advantages.
Best alternative for computer network extension
Basically, the Ethernet switch is designed to increase the number of devices and peripherals connected to a computer network and the Internet. In addition to expanding the network, it also creates an intelligent computing environment with better management of network flow between networked devices. However, Ethernet switches come in different models depending on the number of Ethernet ports and the type of computer network intended for communication.
Practicality and simplicity
Network extension and networking of Ethernet devices is the best solution to create an intelligent computer park. As far as installation is concerned, the Ethernet switch offers the simplest and most convenient installation option. Used to speed up information and data transfer activities, this device gives you the ability to expand your IT easily and economically by connecting all devices and peripherals with Ethernet ports. As a result, it will offer these devices the ability to automatically communicate with each other. To its advantage, an Ethernet switch has an automatic negotiation system that determines the appropriate settings to benefit all devices.
Versatility
Used for networking, the Ethernet switch is a widely used element for networking all types of Ethernet-enabled devices. It can support multiple servers, computers, game consoles, IP cameras, printers, televisions and more.
Adaptability to all types of Ethernet networks
Adopting a Plug and Play architecture, an Ethernet switch has several features. It supports VLAN with configuration of multiple networks isolated from each other on a single networking device. It also takes advantage of QoS technology for managing priority and prioritization between different data and information flows. These features include NTP for automatic and centralized data configuration. It also has support for straight-through and crossover cables depending on the equipment being connected.
Control and protection of data and the network
As a rule, an Ethernet switch is designed to send and receive data and information by processing them individually for proper flow to each port. It even has the ability to prevent bandwidth congestion by filtering network data. It also offers the ability to limit access to the network and to manage the information in circulation. Thus, the Ethernet switch will contribute to the improvement of the confidentiality of your network.
In our opinion, the best brands of Ethernet switches in 2022 are :
TP-Link was founded in 1996, oriented in the IT field and quickly became one of the world leaders. Renowned for the price of its products, it bases its fame in the production of equipment for Wi-Fi and Ethernet networks. In addition, the brand offers all ranges of switches, routers, repeaters and so many others.
Founded in 1996, Netgear is an American company specialized in equipment for computer networks and telecommunications. Progressing with the technological evolution, it offers a wide choice of switches and routers meeting the requirements of all users, professional and private. Its Ethernet switches are among the best.
Created in 1986, D-Link is a Taiwanese brand originally known as Datex Systems Inc. The brand became known as a provider of network adapters. Over time, it began to expand into the design and development of computer networking equipment. D-Link Ethernet switches are known for their high capabilities.
Tenda is a Chinese brand founded in 1999, known as a supplier of computer networking devices and equipment. It provides affordable and simple solutions with performance that meets the requirements of businesses and consumers. Operating in more than 100 countries, Tenda offers a wide variety of equipment, including Ethernet switches.
TRENDnet is an American brand based in California, founded in 1990 and focused on networking equipment. The brand is best known for award-winning networking and monitoring for home and small business users. The TRENDnet brand designs Ethernet Switch, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth equipment, IP cameras, Power over Ethernet as well as multimedia accessories.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Installing your Ethernet switch properly
After inspecting all the accessories of your Ethernet switch, define a suitable location. This will be determined by the shape and appearance of your switch. You can mount it on the wall, on a flat surface or in another dedicated location. Only, it will be essential to find a clear and well-ventilated location to ensure proper operation and better installation. Next, proceed to wire your devices to the Ethernet switch. And finally, power your switch using the adapter or power cable that comes with your equipment, and check if the power light is on properly.
Connecting your Ethernet switch to an internet connection
In principle, an Ethernet switch is intended for the extension of a computer network by connecting several equipment. However, it can provide an internet connection to all networked devices. To do this, it is necessary to have a box or an Internet modem with an Ethernet RJ45 socket. Connecting your switch to your box is quite simple and easy. You just need to wire your switch to the Internet source device via an RJ45 cable on any port of your equipment and the source. Note that this process does not require any configuration to run, it will usually be automatic.
The basic configuration of an Ethernet switch to customize your network
In order to optimize the network access of your computer park, it will be necessary to start with the basic settings with the change of the name of your Switch and the DNS domain. Then, it will be necessary to define a user name and an identification password for the console/web access. For more security, it will also be necessary to define the SSH/Telnet. This process is suitable to determine an encrypted communication protocol designed by the security of the network flow. At the same time, it will be important to set the SFTP/TFTP protocols in order to optimize the data flow on the network. And finally, it will also be required to introduce a banner message in order to warn a user about the risks involved in case of an illegitimate connection attempt.
Find the IP and MAC addresses of the devices networked on your Ethernet switch
In order to identify the IP and MAC addresses of the devices on your local network, it is necessary to run the Windows configuration menu. To do this, you need to access the Windows "Start" menu and then click on the System Control Panel. The screen of your PC will show many parameters, among which the network system: "Network and Internet" that you will click to enter. In the network settings you will find the network and sharing center which will allow you to access your network management and connection configuration. On the display of your active networks, click on "View entire network" to have a map of the local network that will identify all the devices and peripherals networked. Finally to identify the IP and MAC address of a connected device, just place your mouse cursor on a device for a few moments and it will display the name as well as the IP and MAC address.
Maintaining your Ethernet switch to maintain its quality and lifespan
After a while, sometimes the Ethernet switch collects dust or some dirt. At that time, the ports and vents get clogged. To get rid of this dirt and clean your Ethernet switch, it is mainly recommended to first turn off your device by unplugging its power supply completely. Then, clean the exterior with a soft or slightly damp cloth. For vents and ports, try using a blower or a can of compressed air. To ensure thorough cleaning, use a cotton swab lightly moistened with alcohol at its tip to clean each Ethernet port. Before reconnecting your switch, it is best to check that your device is clean and dry to avoid a short circuit failure.
When you purchased an Ethernet switch to expand your computer network, it is possible that over time the number of ports will become insufficient for your activities. When you purchased the switch, it would have been a good idea to allow for this situation by setting a margin on the number of ports. On the other hand, instead of investing a substantial amount of money on another much larger and complex piece of equipment, you can always choose a simpler piece of equipment and connect it to your already installed Ethernet switch.
First, you will be required to connect your PC to the Ethernet port of your Switch via an Ethernet cable. Then you need to configure the IP address of your PC by introducing the address 10.90.90.10 with a subnet mask that you will define by 255.0.0.0. Finally, to access the web interface, type the IP address you just introduced on the search tab of your browser. You will then be able to access the configuration of all the parameters available on your Ethernet switch.
It is a transmission parameter defining the direction of data transfer and communication between the networked devices. The duplex mode determines a bidirectional and simultaneous flow. That is, the data transfer can take place in both directions and simultaneously. While the half-duplex mode, it establishes a bidirectional connection but in alternation. The data flow can also be done in both directions but not at the same time. Be careful not to confuse the half-duplex mode with the simplex mode. Simplex mode defines a unidirectional or one-way transfer from a transmitter to a receiver.
POE or Power Over Ethernet is a function that allows both the connection to the network and the power supply of an equipment. At this level, the Ethernet switch will provide network flow by powering the connected device via a single Ethernet cable. This option will be essential for some equipment such as IP cameras, VoIP phone or Wi-Fi access point etc. The advantage is that you will be spared the extra clutter of another power supply for some equipment.
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