Choosing a Best Network Switch? Don’t Miss This Guide!

One of the best ways to scale the wired network is to install network switches managed and unmanaged switch. A network switch is a communication device that helps distribute data over a cable network. Though its similarity to a hub is very high, they are not the same thing. Buying a network switch is not an easy task because you need to have some basic knowledge about network switches. In this guide, we will walk you through what you must know when you need to purchase network switches online.

Unmanaged Switch vs. Managed Switch vs. Intelligent Switch

Several types of network switches managed and unmanaged switch are there to meet diverse needs of network connectivity, namely, unmanaged switches, managed switches, and intelligent (smart) switches. Each type allows different levels of management.

a) Unmanaged Switch

You should choose an unmanaged switch only if your network is very simple and you can leave all the ports open without isolating any of them. Unmanaged switches make a good low-budget choice when you need to connect only a few devices to the Internet. They are plug-and-play devices. It means all you need is to connect them to make them operational. Thus, you can use them easily at home or small office even if you don’t have technical skills.

b) Managed Switch

If you think that your network requirements are scaling up or will evolve later, then it is better to choose a managed switch and leave the default configuration. Configuration removes the need for rebuilding the network when it expands later because a managed switch allows you to manage and modify your network remotely through configuration depending on your needs. This type of network switch is better for managing complex networks and requires the skills of a network engineer to ensure port security and monitor access control lists (ACLs) and bandwidth allocation.

c) Intelligent Switch

Some managed network switches also come with an API that makes IaC (infrastructure as code) possible. Also known as Smart Switches, they make an ideal choice if you want to keep control of your network and the network is relatively simpler. These managed and unmanaged switches can be partially managed through an Application Programming Interface and are considered a good compromise between unmanaged and managed switches.

Depending on which smart switch model you choose, you might also have access to options like Quality of Service (QoS) or Virtual LANs (VLANs). They are great for managing VoIP phones and for situations where you want to isolate parts of the network for better network security and performance.

How to Choose a Network Switch

Now, that you know about the type of network switches, let us guide you on how to choose a switch for your network.

1. Determine the Class of Network Switch

As mentioned above, there are several types of network switches to choose from.

While unmanaged switches allow you to simply increase the number of ports and help expand your network with simply plug-and-play functionality, managed switches and web smart (intelligent) switches come with additional features that allow you to expand and modify the configuration depending on your network needs. Some of these features are VLAN support, PoE controls, multicast support, and traffic analysis.

So, you need to determine your network requirements first to see which type of network switch managed and unmanaged switch is the best choice for you.

2. Figure out What Speed You Need

Another thing you need to choose is the speed. The required bandwidth will help you determine whether you need a 10G, 2.5G, Gigabit, or 10/100 switch. Though Fast Ethernet or 10/100 switches are more cost-effective, multi-gigabit and gigabit switches have better scalability. So, determine the speed that is enough for current needs but also consider whether you will need extra bandwidth in the future.

In case you have a custom network project with unique needs, then focus on looking for specialized switches, such as AV switches and industrial switches.

3. Evaluate How Many Ports You Need

Assess the number of ports you need in a switch by determining how many devices you need to get connected. It is recommended to reserve 2 additional ports for NVR or your network bridge/client to cater to your surveillance needs.

4. Choose the Form Factor of Switch

 The form factor refers to the shape of the networking device in terms of the flexibility and modularity it offers. In a network switch, you may need to choose from three types of form factors:

•  Fixed configuration switches – don’t allow to expansion of the number of ports in them
• Stackable configuration switches – can be stacked and connected with a specific cable to act as a single device
• Modular configuration switches – has a chassis with redundant power supplies where you can put several line cards to allow inter-line-card communication

5. Check Out the Features of the Switch

Knowing the class of switch will help you identify the set of features you need. However, irrespective of class, network switches come with varying features such as troubleshooting, access controls, traffic management, QoS, bandwidth control per port, VLAN, IGMP snooping, and monitoring. So, also figure out what features you need and prefer.

Do you need guidance on which network switch is the best choice for your specific networking requirements? Or, are you looking to buy the best quality network switches managed and unmanaged switch in the UAE?

Author: TechBlonHub

As a passionate blogger, I'm thrilled to share my expertise, insights, and enthusiasm with you. I believe that technical knowledge should be shared, not hoarded. That's why I take the time to craft detailed, well-researched content that's easy to follow, even for non-tech. I love hearing from you, answering your questions, and learning from your experiences. Your feedback helps me create content that's tailored to your needs and interests