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The article explains the role of a networking device that connects devices in a local area network (LAN) and manages their communication. You will learn how to choose a switch for your company, what to pay attention to when purchasing, and which types of network switches are suitable for various applications. The article is intended for business owners, IT administrators, and those responsible for developing network infrastructure in small and medium-sized enterprises.
In the world of modern business, where almost every process relies on IT infrastructure, a reliable computer network is an essential foundation for a smoothly functioning office. One of the key elements of this infrastructure is the switch. Although for many it may just be a “black box with ports” its role in the daily functioning of a company is enormous. A well-chosen switch for a company not only provides a stable connection but also enables the organization to grow, improves data security, and enhances team efficiency.
What is a network switch?
A switch (network switch) is a networking device that connects computers, printers, servers, and other devices in a local area network (LAN). It typically has multiple Ethernet ports, allowing various devices to be connected. The switch primarily operates at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model.
Its task is to direct network traffic so that data reaches the recipient directly, without unnecessarily burdening other devices. The switch analyzes data packets and forwards them only to the specific port to which the destination device is connected. As a result, the network operates faster, more stably, and more securely.
Unmanaged or managed switch?
There are two types of network switches – unmanaged switch and managed switch.
Unmanaged switch
An unmanaged switch is the simplest form of switch, ideal for small business networks and offices that do not have an IT department. Such a device operates on a “plug & play” basis – just connect the cables, and everything starts working. There is no need for configuration, logging into a panel, or knowledge of specialized protocols. For example, a company running a small accounting operation can successfully use such a network switch, handling a few computers, printers, and internet connection. However, this simplicity comes at a cost – the lack of management means we have no insight into what is happening on the network or influence over its operation.
Managed switch
A managed switch offers significantly more capabilities but also requires appropriate knowledge or specialist support. It allows for monitoring network traffic, configuring VLANs (virtual local area networks), prioritizing certain types of data (e.g., VoIP), securing access, and remote management. Such switches can be found in companies that work with large amounts of data, have multiple departments or locations, use IP monitoring, or internet telephony systems. For example, a marketing agency with many workstations, a NAS server, and VoIP phones will need a managed switch with QoS support and network monitoring capabilities. Managed switches thus offer full control, advanced security, and diagnostics.
PoE switch – when does it make sense?
PoE (Power over Ethernet) technology is a feature that allows electrical power to be transmitted over the same cable that carries data. This is a significant convenience when installing devices such as IP cameras, access points, or VoIP phones. There is no need to provide additional power or use local power supplies. Imagine a trading company that has equipped its warehouse with IP cameras – a PoE switch allows them to be powered without the need for a separate electrical installation. Depending on the power, we distinguish between PoE (up to 15.4 W), PoE+ (up to 30 W), and PoE++ (up to 60 W and more), which allows powering increasingly energy-hungry devices.
Ports and bandwidth – what to pay attention to?
Another key aspect of choosing a network switch will be the number of ports and their bandwidth. The most commonly encountered ports are 1G (Gigabit Ethernet), which are entirely sufficient for typical office work, such as handling email, browsing the web, or working with the cloud. For more demanding tasks – e.g., companies editing video, creating 3D graphics, or handling multiple cameras – it is worth considering 10G ports, which provide significantly higher data transmission speeds. Meanwhile, SFP or SFP+ ports are designed for fiber optic transmission and are mainly used in situations where it is necessary to connect distant buildings or create a backbone network.
Switch Device Ranking
8-port switch for a small office – Cisco Business C1200-8T-D
For companies looking for a reliable and easy-to-use switch with at least 8 network ports, the Cisco Business C1200-8T-D model is worth considering. This unmanaged network switch offers eight Gigabit Ethernet ports, making it an ideal choice as an 8-port switch for a small office. Its compact size and lack of a fan make it quiet and suitable for any work environment. Ideal for basic connections of computers and printers, it offers the reliability of the renowned Cisco brand without the need for configuration.
8-port PoE switch – Ubiquiti UniFi Switch Lite 8 PoE
For users needing a network switch with PoE, the Ubiquiti UniFi Switch Lite 8 PoE is an excellent choice. This is an 8-port switch, with 4 ports offering PoE, including 2 PoE+ ports. It works great in offices with monitoring systems or Wi-Fi networks based on UniFi access points. Management is done through the intuitive UniFi Controller platform, allowing the administrator full control over network traffic and the ability to optimize its performance. The Ubiquiti UniFi graphical interface for central management is highly valued by users.
Advanced PoE+ switch – TP-Link TL-SG2210MP
For greater demand for PoE power and advanced management features, the TP-Link TL-SG2210MP model is worth noting. This is a managed switch with 8 PoE+ ports (total power up to 150 W) and 2 uplink ports. It allows for VLAN configuration, QoS, and has extensive security features. It is intended for companies installing many IP cameras, VoIP phones, or access points in environments where stability and service quality are crucial.
Switch-router for more technical users – MikroTik RB760iGS
On the other hand, when we need an advanced switch for more technical users or small companies with ambitions to expand their infrastructure, a good choice would be the MikroTik RB760iGS network switch. This switch-router has five Gigabit Ethernet ports and one SFP port. It allows for VPN deployment, firewalls, VLANs, and advanced bandwidth management. This versatile device, in the hands of an experienced IT administrator, becomes a powerful tool for network management.
Simple switch with an app – Aruba Instant On 1930/1830 (JL680A)
If you are looking for a simple yet modern network switch with easy management via an app, the Aruba Instant On 1930 (JL680A) or related Aruba Instant On 1830 may be the answer. It offers eight Gigabit Ethernet ports and can be mounted both on a desk and in a rack cabinet. It works great in dynamic offices that want to maintain installation simplicity while gaining basic control over network traffic.
Summary – how to choose a switch for your company?
In summary, when choosing the right switch for your company, it is worth not only considering its price but primarily matching the device to the real needs of the organization. For small offices, a simple unmanaged switch will suffice, while for dynamic, growing companies – especially those using advanced IT systems – more advanced managed network switches with PoE support and SFP ports will be a better choice. Properly configuring the network switch and investing in the right equipment will quickly pay off through higher work efficiency, greater security, and the ability to further scale the infrastructure.
The most important criteria for choosing a switch for a company are:
- Number of ports (must correspond to the number of devices on the network, with a buffer for the future)
- Port bandwidth (Gigabit Ethernet as standard, Multi-Gigabit for demanding users)
- Type of switch (unmanaged for simple networks, managed for larger companies)
- PoE support (if planning IP cameras, access points, VoIP)
- Rack mount capability
- PoE power budget
- Quiet operation (fanless models)
- Brand and technical support
Also check out other professional network switches in the Senetic store: switches for businesses, Cisco switches, MikroTik switches.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Which switch to choose for a small company without an IT department?
If you run a small office, use a few computers, printers, and basic cloud services, a switch equipped with 8 Gigabit ports, without PoE, will be more than sufficient. It will provide a stable connection, is easy to install (plug & play), and does not require specialist knowledge. It is worth opting for a reputable brand offering unmanaged switches, such as Cisco or TP-Link.
When is it worth paying extra for a PoE switch?
Using a PoE switch is always beneficial when you are using IP cameras, Wi-Fi access points, or VoIP phones. With PoE, you deliver data and power through one cable, simplifying wiring and installation of devices (especially on ceilings or outdoors). With a larger number of such devices, it is worth choosing a managed PoE+ switch with an appropriate power budget. Why? Because checking the power budget of the switch will ensure that it can handle all connected devices.
What is the difference between a switch and a network router?
A switch is a device that connects devices within a single local area network (LAN). A switch must have a port for each device on the network. It operates at the second layer of the OSI model, which is the data link layer. A network switch allows data to be forwarded only to connected devices that are their intended recipients. A switch enables communication between computers, printers, and other devices within the same network but does not connect different networks.
A router is a device that connects different networks, such as a local area network (LAN) to the Internet or another network. It operates at the third layer of the OSI model (network layer) and is responsible for routing packets between different networks. A router is essential for transmitting data between different networks, including providing access to the Internet.
Does a network switch affect Internet speed?
A network switch itself does not directly affect the speed of the Internet connection, as it does not influence the external connection. Its task is to manage communication between devices within a single local area network. However, if the switch is older or has insufficient bandwidth, it may limit the speed of data transfer within the network. The speed of the Internet is mainly influenced by the router and the quality of the connection to the Internet provider.
