Network Switches

Guide to Networking Switches | USA | Kijero

Any networking infrastructure whether small or large remains incomplete without putting in place a feature-packed network switch. Their role in modern networks is critical, they connect multiple devices within a Local Area Network. They can connect multiple IT devices and thus create communication, allowing you to share IT resources such as file storage, internet access, printers, and servers (every user can access both printers and servers collectively, employing them for their day-to-day needs and tasks). 

However, not all network switches are the same. They come with different capabilities and features. Understanding their differences is critical to effective deployment and configuration. That's why, we will help you understand the ins and outs of network ethernet switches.

What are Network Switches and What is Their Purpose in a Network:

You can use Ethernet switches to connect equipment, applications, and users so that they can communicate with one another. Switches operate at data link layer of OSI models and the simplest switch can only provide connectivity to devices in a single LAN. Alternatively, advanced switches can connect devices from multiple LANs and feature robust security features as well.

They are more or less like network hubs, but they are different as well in many ways. For instance, when a device sends data to switches, it examines the MAC address of the incoming packet and forwards it only to a port where the destination device is located. They can thus enhance network performance by making sure that data is forwarded to only the device for which it is intended.

Important Functions of Network Switches:

Network switches come in various types, each is designed specifically for performing particular tasks and meeting particular needs. However, they normally perform these tasks:

• Segmentation:

They divide the network into smaller ones, enabling network administrators to deliver better security and performance. 

• Support for VLAN: 

They help network administrators to create virtual LANs within a network. This leads to the separation of traffic, better security, and improved performance.

• Quality of Service: 

QoS is an important function. QoS allows network managers to prioritize network traffic based on pre-defined criteria. You can thus make sure that mission-critical applications and devices keep getting requisite bandwidth.

• Data Forwarding:

This is the fundamental function. Network Ethernet switches use MAC addresses to direct data packets to their intended destination. Not all ethernet networking switches come in the same form and features. Each has unique capabilities and suitability for a particular application. Therefore, it is pertinent here to understand various types of network ethernet switches.

Types of Network Switches:

Here are the types of networking switches deployed in IT sectors:

• Unmanaged Switches
• Smart Switches
• Managed Switches
• PoE switches

• Unmanaged Switches:

These are essentially plug-and-play devices, offering no advanced network management capabilities. Moreover, of all the types of switches, they are easy to use and deploy. Given these facts, they are suitable for small offices or commercial settings where network traffic management is not required.

• Smart Network Switches:

They are mid-way between unmanaged and fully managed switches. Smart Network Ethernet switches some basic network management capabilities that you can access through a web-based interface. They are also known as web-managed network switches. The key capabilities of smart ethernet switches are as follows:

• Support for Basic VLAN:

This allows network managers to segment networks into virtual LANs. They can thus enhance network speed and performance as well as security.

• Basic QoS Support:

They support some limited Quality of Service support. This helps network managers to prioritize network traffic so that important applications keep getting the required bandwidth.

• Web-based Interface:

You can manage and monitor traffic through a web-based interface, bringing convenience and efficiency to network management.

• Managed Network Switches:

Managed switches are the most advanced switching technology. They feature cutting-edge capabilities, making them suitable where network traffic management is a critical necessity. They also offer advanced monitoring and configuring capabilities. Some important features are discussed below:

• Link Aggregation:

This helps network managers to combine network connections. They can thus increase network speed and provide redundancy for data security.

• SNMP Monitoring:

SNMP or Simple Network Management Protocol allows administrators to keep a close eye on network performance and health.

• Quality of Service or QoS:

You can thus this feature for network traffic prioritization so that your mission-critical applications and devices continue receiving the required bandwidth for uninterrupted performance.

• Advanced Redundancy Features:

STP or Spanning Tree Protocol is one such feature that allows managers to avoid network loops and ensure continuing network reliability.

• Gigabit Ethernet Switches:

These are switches that can support up to 1 Gigabit internet speed per port. There can be unmanaged Gigabit ethernet switches, managed gigabit switches, and smart gigabit switches. Apart from blazing-fast speed, these switches offer improved performance for multiple devices and increased security, and they are future-proof as well.

• Power Over Ethernet or PoE Switches: 

PoE network switches are also important models that are highly sought after in modern networking infrastructure. They allow the transmission of both data and power via connected RJ 45 cables. You can thus simplify the deployment of networking switches. But you must ensure that your equipment such as IP cameras, access points, and VoIP phones support PoE capabilities. 

PoE switches are capable of supporting 15.4 Watts per port power, which is enough for low-power-consuming devices such as VoIP and basic APs. They are more suitable for places where running separate power and data cables is difficult such as outdoor settings and where ceiling is available.

• PoE+ Network Switches:

These are advanced versions of PoE switches, offering more power for demanding equipment in the network. PoE+ switches provide 25.5 W per port, which is enough for PTZ surveillance cameras, advanced WAPs, and even video conference systems. They are capable of supporting a greater number of devices than PoE networking switches. Having discussed the types of networking ethernet switches, now we see what factors you must look into before purchasing a switch.

What to Look for in a Network Ethernet Switch:

Here are some factors that you must look into: 

1. Number of Ports
2. Speed
3. PoE capability
4. Management capabilities
5. Network size and complexity

Final Words:

There is no denying that network switches are a key component in networking, providing the management needed to establish a secure, safe, and powerful network. But not all switches are the same. You must choose a switch that best serves your needs. No matter you are running a home network or establishing a large enterprise network, choosing a feature-packed network switch can make a massive difference.

How Can We Help You

Kijero is a prominent player when it comes to network equipment. We have an extensive range of networking devices including Access Points, Routers, WiFi ranger extenders, networking cables, and more. What’s more, we collaborate with all top-ranked brands such as TP-Link, Netgear, Ubiquiti Networks, Linksys, and more. Kijero has carved out its unique name in the market because we offer the best product at the most competitive price in the market. Contact us and optimize your network with a perfect switch, meeting your specific speed and performance requirements.