What is the difference between Ethernet switches?

Ethernet Port Speeds

• 10/100 or Fast Ethernet is the standard for ethernet switches providing 10 or 100 Mbps auto negotiation speeds. Available in 5, 8, 16, 24 or 48 port configurations.
• Gigabit or 1000Mbps switches are designed for very high network data environments or network backbones offering speeds 10 times faster than Fast Ethernet switches. Computers and network devises with require Gigabit NIC adapters in order to connect at Gigabit speeds. Gigabit ports will auto negotiate down to Fast Ethernet speeds if required. In the future Gigabit LANS are expected to be the norm. Gigabit switches are available in 5, 8, 16, 24 or 48 port configurations.

Ethernet Switch Types

• Unmanaged Switches - These switches have no configuration interface or options and are completely plug ad play. They are typically the least expensive switches and are perfect for home, SOHO or small business use. They can be desktop or rack mounted.
• Smart/Web Managed Switches - Delivering entry level management and expandability without the cost and complexity of a fully managed/Layer 3 managed switches, Smart switches fill the gap between unmanaged and fully managed switches and are built specifically for the small to mid-size business.
• Green Ethernet Switches offer real cost benefits through their power-saving functionality.
• Managed Switches - offer best-in-class, wire-speed performance and management control to identify bottlenecks or errors, optimise performance for data and voice, prioritise traffic and more.
• Layer 3 Switches do everything Managed Switch equivalents do while delivering maximum throughput and flexibility where you need it - be it high-speed, high-density workgroups at the edge of the network, in the backbone of growing networks or for bandwidth thirsty file and application servers. Layer 3 switching functionality ensures reliable routing between VLANs and network segmentation. Robust security, Quality of Service, and management features deliver intelligent edge connectivity for essential business applications.

Power over Ethernet

PoE Switches enable you to provide power to compatible PoE devices directly from the switch via the Ethernet cable therefore removing the need for a power supply local to the device. Commonly used for VoIP phones and IP cameras. Most PoE devices only have small power requirements and therefore half power PoE is normally sufficient. It is quite common now for PoE switches to have a 'total PoE budget' meaning the switch can deliver up to its total PoE power budget in any combination of power per port, but not exceeding 15W per port.

• 7.5W per port (half power) PoE switches are available in 8, 16, 24 or 48 port configurations.
• 15W per port (full power) PoE switches are available in 8, 16, 24 or 48 port configurations.

Ethernet Switch Options

• Rack mountable - Rack mount switches are designed to be mounted into standard 19" cabinets. Smaller size rack mount switches may require a rack mount kit normally provided with the switch.
• Stackable
• Internal PSU - The switch has an internal PSU and connects directly to the mains
• Fanless Switches - Designed for silent operation fanless switches have no mechanical parts and are ideal for home or desktop use