Network switches connect several devices into one wired network: computers, printers, cameras, access points and NAS drives. Our range includes over 15 models, from 8-port units for the home to 48-port switches for office racks. You will find equipment from D-Link, MikroTik, devolo and other manufacturers.
How to choose a network switch
Speed and port type. Many switches in our range have Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000) ports, which is enough for home and office computers, printers and cameras. There are also 2.5G models, useful when connecting newer Wi-Fi access points or a NAS, and 10G Ethernet versions for links between switches and to servers. Fast Ethernet (10/100) only makes sense for very old equipment.
Number of ports. Our range covers switches with 8, 12, 16, 24 and 48 RJ-45 ports. Count every device you will connect by cable and add at least a fifth as spare capacity, because networks tend to grow. Remember the port that will link to your router or another switch.
Management features. An unmanaged switch works as soon as it is plugged in, so it suits a simple network. A managed one lets you create VLANs, limit traffic, monitor ports and keep guest, camera and office networks apart. If you want to power cameras or access points over the network cable, check that the model supports PoE and what its total power budget is.
MAC address table. In our range it runs from 1,000 to 32,000 entries. A small network with a few dozen devices is fine with a smaller table, while large networks with many computers, phones and virtual machines call for more entries.
Cooling and operating conditions. Heat dissipation in our range goes from roughly 119 to over 1,600 BTU/h, so large 48-port models belong in a ventilated rack. If the switch will sit in a warehouse or an unheated room, look at the permitted operating temperature and humidity.
Switch brands in our range
- D-Link: the most models in our range, well known for unmanaged and easy-to-manage switches for homes and small offices.
- MikroTik: develops the RouterOS and SwOS software with detailed settings, which is why network administrators often choose its hardware.
- devolo: best known for Powerline adapters, which carry a network signal over the mains wiring.
- QNAP: primarily famous for NAS devices, so its switches are aimed at fast 2.5G and 10G connections to storage.
- Hewlett Packard Enterprise: a maker of business servers and networking equipment, with network products also sold under the Aruba name.
Also in our range: TP-Link, Delock.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a switch and a router?
A switch connects devices within a local network, while a router connects that network to the internet and assigns addresses. At home, a switch is usually plugged into the router when it runs out of free ports. A switch alone does not create an internet connection.
How many ports should a switch have?
Choose as many ports as you have wired devices, then add at least a fifth as spare. Eight ports are normally enough for a home, 16 or 24 suit a small office, and 48-port models are meant for larger networks and racks.
Do I need a managed switch at home?
Usually not, since a simple home network works well with an unmanaged switch. A managed model helps when you need VLANs, traffic limits or network monitoring, for example to keep security cameras apart from computers. You will have to configure these settings yourself.
Will a switch make my internet faster?
No, your internet speed depends on your provider's plan and your router. A switch can speed up file transfers inside your local network, such as to a NAS, if the ports and cables support 2.5G or 10G. A wired connection is also usually more stable than Wi-Fi.
