
Too many network switches? Here's how to find the right one
Here are five key factors to consider when selecting the right network switch for your needs.
Last updated 4 weeks ago. Automatically generated content.


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The type of switch is essential for determining how a network will operate. Choosing the right switch type ensures optimal performance based on your specific network needs, whether for business or home use.
Popular options (you can select more than one)
Rack Switch
Typical price
340.– to 3200.–Designed to fit into server racks, offering high-density connectivity for multiple devices.
Ideal for large networks or data centers, providing scalability and efficient space usage.
Bestseller
PoE Switch
Typical price
140.– to 840.–Provides Power over Ethernet, allowing devices like IP cameras and phones to receive power and data through the same cable.
Simplifies installation and reduces cable clutter, making it a great choice for smart office setups or security systems.
Bestseller
Desktop switch
Typical price
45.– to 210.–Compact and easy to set up, designed for smaller networks with limited devices.
Perfect for home offices or small businesses, offering a cost-effective solution for basic networking needs.
Bestseller
The number of ports on a network switch determines how many devices can be connected simultaneously. Choosing the right number of ports is crucial for ensuring sufficient connectivity for your network needs, whether for a home office or a larger business environment.
Popular options
Up to 8 Ports
Typical price
68.– to 490.–These switches typically feature between 5 to 8 Ethernet ports, making them ideal for small networks or home use.
Perfect for connecting a few devices like computers, printers, and gaming consoles without overwhelming your network.
Bestseller
9 - 24 Ports
Typical price
200.– to 1500.–This range includes switches with 9 to 24 ports, suitable for small to medium-sized businesses or office environments.
Allows more devices to connect, supporting a growing network with multiple computers, VoIP phones, and other peripherals.
Bestseller
25 - 48 Ports
Typical price
490.– to 5500.–These switches provide between 25 to 48 ports, designed for larger networks such as enterprise environments or data centers.
Ideal for organizations that require extensive connectivity for numerous devices, ensuring high-performance and reliable networking.
Bestseller
The Power over Ethernet (PoE) budget refers to the total amount of power that a network switch can provide to connected devices over Ethernet cables. Understanding the PoE budget is essential for ensuring that all your devices, such as IP cameras and wireless access points, receive adequate power for optimal performance.
Popular options
Up to 80 W
Typical price
61.– to 270.–Supports a total power output of up to 80 watts, suitable for powering a limited number of low to medium power devices.
Ideal for small setups, such as home networks with a few IP cameras or access points, ensuring reliable operation without overloading.
Bestseller
81 - 360 W
Typical price
180.– to 570.–Provides a power range from 81 to 360 watts, allowing for multiple devices or higher power requirements.
Recommended for medium-sized businesses or installations that require several PoE devices like VoIP phones and security cameras, ensuring sufficient power distribution.
Bestseller
361 - 720 W
Typical price
550.– to 1900.–Offers a robust power budget from 361 to 720 watts, supporting many high-power devices simultaneously.
Best suited for large enterprises or complex networks with numerous high-demand devices, such as advanced surveillance systems, ensuring all devices function effectively.
Bestseller
Management type refers to the level of control and configuration options available for a network switch. Choosing the right management option is crucial for optimizing network performance and security, affecting how easily you can monitor and adjust your network settings.
Popular options (you can select more than one)
Fully managed
Typical price
460.– to 3400.–Offers complete control with extensive configuration options, including VLANs, QoS, and security features.
Ideal for complex networks requiring advanced management, allowing for detailed monitoring and optimization of network performance.
Bestseller
Smart managed
Typical price
180.– to 550.–Provides a balance of management features with user-friendly interfaces, supporting basic configurations and monitoring.
Great for small to medium-sized networks, offering essential control without the complexity of fully managed switches.
Bestseller
Unmanaged
Typical price
100.– to 1000.–Plug-and-play design with no configuration options, making it simple to use and set up.
Best suited for small networks or home use where minimal control is needed, offering a cost-effective solution.
Bestseller
The brand factor significantly influences purchasing decisions for network switches by guiding customers toward established manufacturers known for quality, reliability, and performance. Choosing a reputable brand can enhance network efficiency and ensure better customer support, making it easier to find compatible devices and troubleshooting resources.
Popular brands (you can select more than one)
Netgear
Recognized for a wide range of networking products, particularly reliable home and small business switches.
Offers user-friendly interfaces and robust support, making setup and management straightforward for users of all levels.
Bestseller
TP-Link
Known for its budget-friendly networking solutions that do not compromise on quality and performance.
Ideal for both home and office settings, providing excellent value with features like easy management through mobile apps.
Bestseller
D-Link
Offers a diverse selection of switches, focusing on both consumer and enterprise-level networking needs.
Specializes in advanced features such as Power over Ethernet (PoE), which simplifies installations by delivering power and data through a single cable.
Bestseller
Ubiquiti
Renowned for its high-performance networking equipment, particularly in professional setups and larger networks.
Provides advanced management options and scalability, making it suitable for growing businesses with increasing demands.
Bestseller
Zyxel
Recognized for its innovative solutions that cater to both consumer and business segments.
Offers features like security enhancements and easy integration with existing infrastructure, making it a solid choice for network upgrades.
Bestseller