Unmanaged switches

Unmanaged switches are plug-and-play network switches that need no configuration: connect the power and the cables and they work. They suit homes, small offices and shops that simply need more wired connections. Our range of over 360 models includes switches from TP-Link, LevelOne, D-Link and Zyxel.

How to choose an unmanaged switch

Ports and speed. Count the devices you will connect by cable and leave a couple of ports free for later. Our range includes models with 4, 5, 8, 16, 24 and 48 RJ-45 ports. Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000) is the usual choice, there are some Fast Ethernet (10/100) models, and a few models run at 2.5 Gbit/s, which helps with fast Wi-Fi access points or a NAS.

Power over Ethernet. If you want to power IP cameras, Wi-Fi access points or IP phones through the same cable, look for a PoE switch and check the total PoE budget in watts, not just the number of PoE ports. Without PoE, each device needs its own power adapter.

MAC address table. This sets how many different devices the switch can remember. In our range the table size runs from 1000 to 16000 entries. A home or small office with a few dozen devices is fine with 1000 or 2000 entries, while a larger table matters in networks with many devices or several chained switches.

Installation and environment. Switches with 5 and 8 ports normally sit on a desk or shelf, while 16, 24 and 48-port models are often designed for a 19-inch rack. Most models in our range operate from 0 to 40 °C, and a few work from -40 to 75 °C, which suits unheated rooms or industrial sites.

Brands we carry

• TP-Link: the largest group in our range, known for inexpensive 5 and 8-port Gigabit desktop switches.
• Mercusys: a sister brand of TP-Link focused on home networking.
• D-Link: a long-established networking maker offering switches for homes and small businesses.
• Zyxel: known for business networking equipment, including small-office switches.
• Cisco: a leading name in enterprise networking, with equipment common in larger organisations.
• Netgear: makes home and small-business networking gear, including plug-and-play Gigabit switches.
• PLANET: a maker of industrial and business networking equipment, so its switches are often chosen for demanding conditions.
• Dahua: best known for video surveillance, so its switches pair naturally with IP cameras.
• DIGITUS: known for network cabling and rack accessories, so its switches suit network cabinet installations.

Also in our range: LevelOne, Cudy, Delock.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a managed and an unmanaged switch?

An unmanaged switch works as soon as it is plugged in, with no settings, while a managed switch lets you configure VLANs and traffic priorities and monitor the network. Homes and small offices are usually fine with an unmanaged one. A managed switch is worth it when you need to split the network into segments or administer it remotely.

Should I choose Gigabit or is Fast Ethernet enough?

If in doubt, choose Gigabit, because it also works with slower devices. Fast Ethernet limits each connection to 100 Mbit/s, so it only suits older devices, IP phones or basic cameras. Faster internet, a NAS or large file transfers call for Gigabit.

How many ports do I need on a switch?

Add up every device you connect by cable and add at least two spare ports, since one port will be used for the link to your router. Five or eight ports are usually enough at home, 16 or 24 suit a small office, and 48 is for larger networks.

Can I connect several switches together?

Yes, you can link switches with a network cable from a free port on one to a port on the other. Most modern models detect the cable type automatically, so an ordinary cable is enough. Never connect two ports of the same switch to each other, as this creates a loop that an unmanaged switch usually cannot block.