What is an Ethernet switch? An Ethernet switch connects devices like computers, laptops, servers, and printers to a local area network (LAN) and to each other. The switch then functions as a central connecting station.
You can boost the Ethernet’s capacity by wiring switches to each other. Unlike routers, Ethernet switches use multiple ports to enable devices in the LAN.
Unmanaged switches are a type of plug-in switch that will work when connected, without the need to configure them first. They work best for basic connectivity needs, like in a home network or small business. The advantage of unmanaged switches is that they can be added ad hoc, for instance, in a conference room or at an event.
Managed switches give you more control over the network. You can configure them to your network needs, thereby improving the network service.
PeerSpot members were asked what aspects are most important when evaluating Ethernet switches and the consensus was: compatibility with the system's needed functions (for example VLAN compatible), gigabit connectivity, interoperability, open API, and performance. Ease of administration, use, and maintenance/management are also necessary components. Many users also mentioned port ratio, PoE, and reliability.
Ethernet switches ensure data packages arrive at their intended destination by connecting devices on a network. Regular network switches include ports up to 28 devices, while corporate Ethernet switches can offer 128 connections.
Network hubs use switches to expand the bandwidth capacity users can share on the network. Large networks may include a number of switches connecting several groups of computer systems together. To build a business network, you need switches to bridge between devices. The switches connect to a router, which enables an Internet connection for the devices.
Some of the activities Ethernet switches can do include:
Ethernet switches provide flexibility for non-wireless networks by connecting a large number of devices to a network. This enables network administrators to monitor traffic and to manage user access. It also allows for communication between devices.
Ethernet splitting is when you split an Ethernet cable into several cables. A splitter is a small plug device with three Ethernet ports, two on one side and one on the other. While they are cheap and this seems like a simple solution, they “divide” the data throughput, reducing it with each split. This will likely affect the performance of your connected devices. A maximum of two devices can be connected per cable.
Ethernet switches are a better option for anything bigger than a home network. You use one port to connect the switch to the router via Ethernet, and then you connect the devices to the remaining ports, like a hub. Even better, the switch decodes the data received, learns where it has to go, and sends it through the right port. Since the switch enables the sending and receiving of data at the same time between devices, it results in a faster network.
Usually, the opposite is true. Ethernet switches connect different devices to the network and between themselves, enabling them to send and receive data at the same time. This increases the response speed.
There can be cases, however, where you may risk slowing your network. For instance, if the group of machines communicates mostly with each other, there shouldn’t be any problems with performance. But if 100% of the traffic goes to another switch, your uplink speed can be significantly reduced.
When choosing an Ethernet switch, you should look for these must-have features:
In addition to basic features like receiving, inspecting, and sending packets through the right port, some Ethernet switches also include some of these popular additional features:
Ethernet switches help organizations maximize the efficiency of the available cable. Here are some of the benefits of adding Ethernet switches:
Reliable connectivity - Switched Ethernet (aka managed switches) helps reduce network downtime by reducing latency. Additionally, since managed switches can be customized, organizations can diversify the cable route or add more switches in order to maximize reliability.
Enhanced security - Data breaches are becoming more and more prevalent, so keeping your network secure is critical. Managed Ethernet switches control the information going through a network. This allows only the necessary information to pass through, after verifying that it is coming from a trusted device.
Scalability - Switches are easy to scale up, and therefore are an attractive solution for organizations that are growing quickly. Ethernet switches allow for private switching over public networks so they can adjust to future growth.
Application agnostic - Most managed Ethernet switches are application agnostic. This means organizations can integrate the applications needed to run their business, such as cloud-based services, file sharing, or bookkeeping.
