Knowing Your Network Switches

Knowing the types of network switches will help you find the right solution to keep up with changing business requirements.

• Modular switches- Allows you to add expansion modules as needed, giving flexibility as network changes are made to the network requirements.

• Fixed-configuration switches- Provides a fixed number of ports and are typically not expandable.

• Unmanaged switches- Designed to be plug and play with no configuration needed. Most effective when only basic switching and connectivity are required.

• Smart switches- Offers some management and segmentation, quality of service, and security capabilities, allowing them to be a cost-effective alternative to modular switches.

• Managed switches- Designed to deliver the most comprehensive set of features to provide the best application experience, the highest levels of security, the most precise control and management of the network, and the greatest scalability.

Four switch options to know

1. Switch speeds- Switches are available in different throughputs or speeds, the rate they transmit data in megabits per second (Mbps).

2. Number of ports- The bigger your business and the more network users you have, and the more ports you will need. Fixed-configuration switches are generally available with 5, 8, 10, 16, 24, 28, 48, or 52 ports.

3. Power over Ethernet (PoE)- This lets you power a device like IP phones, surveillance cameras, or wireless access. This will allow you to place endpoints anywhere.

4. Standalone & stackable switches- With more switches, you will need stackable switches. Standalone switches are managed and configured as an individual entity with limited capacity.

How to Setup a Network Switch

1. Connect your Ethernet cable into an outgoing port on your modem

2. Take the other end of the Ethernet cable and plug it into any port on your switch

3. Plug another Ethernet cable into another port on your switch

4. Plug the other end of the Ethernet cable into your device