Switches

Network switches connect computers, printers, IP cameras, access points and other devices into one wired network. Our range of more than 2,800 models covers unmanaged and managed switches for homes, offices, server rooms and industry, from brands such as Cisco, TP-Link, NETGEAR, HPE and Siemens.

How to choose a network switch

Managed or unmanaged. An unmanaged switch works as soon as it is plugged in, which suits a home or small office that simply needs more ports. A managed switch lets you create VLANs, limit traffic, monitor ports and separate parts of the network. It becomes necessary when many people share the network or you run a guest network or IP telephony. We stock both types.

Port speed. Most models have Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000) ports, the usual choice for computers, cameras and network storage. Fast Ethernet (10/100) switches only suit simple devices such as printers. For a NAS, a server or a fast Wi-Fi access point, look at models with 2.5G, 5G or 10G Ethernet ports, which are also in our range.

Number of ports. Our switches come with 4, 5, 8, 16, 24 and 48 RJ-45 ports. A 5 or 8 port model sits on a desk, while 24 and 48 port switches are usually mounted in a 19 inch rack. It is worth leaving a few ports free for later.

PoE and power. A PoE switch powers IP cameras, phones and access points over the same cable, so you do not need separate power adapters. Check the total PoE power budget, not just the number of PoE ports. You will find models powered by AC, DC or PoE, and DC is more common in industrial and telecoms equipment.

MAC address table. This sets how many devices the switch can remember. A few thousand entries are enough for a small network, while a large network with many computers or virtual machines needs more. In our range the table size runs from 2,000 to 32,000 entries.

Switch brands we carry

• Cisco: known for the Catalyst series used in business and campus networks.
• TP-Link: offers affordable unmanaged switches for homes and managed Omada models for small businesses.
• NETGEAR: its Smart Managed switches are widely used by small companies because they are simple to set up.
• HPE and HP Enterprise: HPE owns Aruba, whose switches are designed for business networks.
• PLANET: a Taiwanese manufacturer with many PoE and industrial switches.
• Siemens: makes industrial Scalance switches for automation networks.
• Ubiquiti: UniFi switches are managed through the same UniFi controller as the rest of the UniFi equipment.

Also in our range: LevelOne, D-Link, TRENDnet and ZyXEL.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a switch and a router?

A switch connects devices within a local network, while a router links that network to the internet and directs traffic between different networks. At home, a switch is usually plugged into the router when the router runs out of ports.

When should I choose a managed switch?

Choose a managed switch when you need VLANs, traffic priorities, port monitoring or remote management. A small home network rarely needs these features, and an unmanaged model is enough.

Do I need a PoE switch?

You need a PoE switch if you want to power IP cameras, VoIP phones or access points through the network cable. Before buying, check that the total PoE power budget covers all the devices you plan to connect.

Is a Gigabit switch enough?

A Gigabit Ethernet switch is enough for most homes and offices. A 2.5G or 10G model is worth choosing when you connect a NAS, a server or an access point that can deliver more than 1 Gbit/s.