Do you have a home office or a small business? Or, maybe you're looking to connect some of your devices to your router to help improve your connection speed. An Ethernet switch is the perfect product to help you wire devices to your home or office network.
To help you find the best Ethernet switches to meet your needs, we have reviewed five of the best options that are available. After reading through our reviews, you should be able to select the perfect option to meet your needs.
Top 5: Ethernet Switches Review
Product Image & Rating (Out Of 10) | Product Name | Price |
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9.1 |
The NETGEAR 5-Port Fast Ethernet 10/100 Unmanaged Switch is a plug-and-play, unmanaged Ethernet switch that is easy to set up. You'll be able to set it up and use it right away; no software or other configurations are needed.
This option features five ports, each with a 10/100Mbps Ethernet connection. The unit is also compliant with IEEE802.3az Energy Efficient Ether mode, so you won't need to worry about it sucking extra power.
You can choose to place this unit on a desktop or other surface, or you can mount it on a wall. If you choose to mount it on a wall, all the hardware you'll need is included with your purchase.
With a fanless design, you won't need to worry about this option making any annoying or distracting background noises. Before selling any of their products, they go through extensive testing by NETGEAR to ensure they are operating as expected. You will receive a lifetime protection warranty and next day replacement guarantee with your purchase.
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The TP-Link Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch will allow you to connect up to eight devices to your network. This product provides eight 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit RJ45 ports. This will help to increase the capacity of your network.
Since this unit is plug-and-play, set up is a breeze. You will not need to install any software to get it up and running. The fanless design also helps ensure that it will operate quietly.
For quality and durability, this option has been designed with an outer metal case. It can easily be mounted on your wall, or you can choose to leave it flat on a surface.
To ensure that your data is transferred properly within your network, this option has a reliable IEEE 802.3x flow control. Additionally, it uses 802.1p and DSCP QoS to make sure that videos and other latency-sensitive traffic transfers smoothly. This product can also help you save power. It will automatically alter how much power is consumed based on the cable length and link status.
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Another five-port option to consider for smaller networks is the Aumox 5 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch. When you use this product, you'll enjoy the fast transfer speeds with large files. It has five auto-negotiation gigabit ports.
A lightning surge protection circuit has been integrated into the unit; it provides 6KV lighting protection to each port. With this protection, you won't have to worry about your Ethernet switch short circuited or damaging your network.
For durability and to ensure safe operation, this product has an outer metal case. It can be mounted on a wall or placed on a desk.
Since this is a plug-and-play model, you won't need to worry about downloading any software to use it. It operates without the use of a fan, so it will not disrupt you or any other users on your network. When you purchase this product, you will receive a 30-day money back guarantee as well as access to 24/7 technical support.
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If you have a lot of devices that need to be connected to your internet, consider the NETGEAR 16-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch. With this product, you'll be able to link up to 16 different devices to your network.
This is a plug-and-play option. You do not need to worry about spending a lot of time setting it up and downloading special software. Just plug in your devices and you will be all set.
So as not to be an annoyance or a distraction in your home or office, this product features fanless operation. It will not make any noises that will disrupt you or others.
This is an energy efficient model. It has been designed to optimize power usage, which can help you save money each month.
You can mount this item on a wall using the included hardware. Or, if you'd prefer, you can set it on a desk or other surface in your home or office.
When you purchase this product, you will also receive a lifetime limited hardware warranty. The company will replace the hardware the next day if something malfunctions.
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If you are looking for a managed Ethernet Switch, consider the Linksys Business LGS318 16-Port Gigabit Smart Managed Switch. With this option, you'll be able to enjoy a more secure network.
The port authentication and MAC-based port security features mean that users will need to provide authentication before being able to transfer files over the network. This can protect you from potential breaches of security. The DCHP snooping and IP-MAC binding functions will make sure that any devices that are not registered on your network are not granted access to it.
It also offers enhanced quality of service (QoS) traffic prioritization. This feature help make sure that your data that is more important gets transferred right away. You will be able to set these preferences related to your specific needs when you purchase this item.
If you need to expand your network, you'll be able to integrate this switch with other Linksys products. This product has been designed to me the EEE (energy efficient Ethernet) 802.3az standard. You won't need to worry about it using or wasting excess energy.
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Buying Guide
If you have a small business or a lot of devices in your home, an Ethernet switch can help you connect them all over your network. When your devices are connected over a network, among other benefits, you'll enjoy faster transfers of documents and files.
Before selecting an Ethernet switch, take a few minutes to compare the different features and options we've presented in this article. Think about exactly what you're looking for to manage your network.
First, you will need to decide between a managed and unmanaged switch. Unmanaged switches are typically easier to set up and won't require much work at all. Managed switches will need more initial set-up, but will allow you greater control over your network.
Deciding on the number of Ethernet ports you want in your unit should be your next task. You'll be able to find many units that offer five, eight, 16, or more ports.
Next, you will want to look for a sturdy and durable option. Selecting a product that has a metal case as opposed to a plastic case can help you feel more confident about the durability of your purchase.
Look for a plug-and-play option if you want to be able to simply connect your devices to begin using the unit. Most plug-and-play options are unmanaged switches.
Finally, be sure to pay attention to the warranties and guarantees that are provided with your purchase. Choosing a product with a longer guarantee can provide you with more peace of mind about your purchase. It will also offer you protection in the event you receive a malfunctioning unit.
Top Pick
We reviewed a variety of different Ethernet switches in the article above. Depending on your individual network needs, the best switch for you will likely be different from the best option for someone else. We really like the TP-Link 8 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch.
One reason that this option is our top pick because it is simple to use. To connect your devices to your network, simply plug them into the switch. This product offers eight ports, so it is a great option for a home office or small business.
When you use this product, you will enjoy how quickly and smoothly large files, videos, and other items transfer within your network. The ports are 10/100/1000 Mpbs Gigabit ports, so they will increase the speed and capacity of your network.
This option has a sturdy metal case which you can choose to mount on the wall of leave on a desk. It is also designed to operate without a fan, so it won't be loud in the background while you or others are trying to focus on your work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does an Ethernet Switch Do?
An Ethernet switch allows you to connect multiple devices to your router using Ethernet cables. Using an Ethernet switch is an alternative to a wireless network. With an Ethernet switch, you can monitor the usage of different devices and control individual users' access to different areas of your network.
Does an Ethernet Switch Need Power?
Yes, you will need to hook your Ethernet switch up to a power source.
How Does the Device Switch Between Wi-Fi and Ethernet?
If you are using a Windows operating system, you can switch your connection type from going to the Control Panel. From the Control Panel, you will need to find where is says "Change adapter settings." Then view the "Advanced Settings" to make the change.
How Many Ports Does an Ethernet Switch Have?
There are many options you'll find when you're looking for an Ethernet switch. Some options only have about five ports, while other options have 16 or more.
Final Verdict
Since your needs will vary based on your circumstances, one of the other products we reviewed might be a better fit for you. To help you make a decision, weight the pros and cons for each item as you read through our reviews again.
After you have settled on which option will be the best product for you, place your order right away. This will allow you to connect your devices over your network right away.
