An Ethernet switch plays a crucial role in a data center or computer networking to meet different needs. The Ethernet switches connect wired devices such as computers, laptops, routers, servers, and printers to a local area network (LAN).
These switches provide faster connectivity and smoother access across devices simultaneously. They are fast, offer reliable data communications, and perform efficiently in adverse weather conditions.
Ethernet switches are used in corporate infrastructures and provide wired and wireless network connectivity.
The network switches are available in 16, 32, or 64 ports, providing various port speeds from 10 megabits per second to 1000 megabits per second.
Ethernet Switch Usage
An Ethernet switch is ideally designed to operate in harsh industrial environments. The industrial switches are robust, highly reliable, and work exceptionally well even in temperatures ranging from −40 to +70°C.
The network switches are different from routers that connect networks and use only a single LAN and WAN port.
The switches are available in a wide range, allowing businesses to find a solution apt for the size of the network.
Types of Ethernet Switches
There are five types of Ethernet Switches: KVM Switch, Managed Switch, Unmanaged Switch, Smart Switch, and PoE Switch.
KVM: KVM stands for Keyboard, Video, and Mouse. KVM connects keyboard, mouse, or monitor to multiple computers and is used to control groups of servers. It also saves desktop space by eliminating cables.
Unmanaged: The unmanaged switches are cost-efficient compared to managed switches. These switches are designed to plug in and use, and they don’t require any configuration.
The unmanaged industrial switches fulfil basic needs and are preferred by small and medium-sized organizations. These types of controls do not offer security capabilities.
Managed: Managed switches cost more than unmanaged switches and require a skilled professional to maintain the network. These switches provide reliability and security and are used by large organizations such as government agencies, universities, the healthcare sector, etc.
These types of switches are considered the best network switches to support the Gigabit standard of Ethernet rather than traditional Fast Ethernet.
It allows you to create a network that runs at peak efficiency and is customized to the specifications of the individual devices on it.
Smart: The Smart switch is also known as an intelligent switch. It is a type of managed switch but does not possess the full management functionality of a managed switch. The best part of an intelligent switch is that it offers the features of managed and unmanaged switches at an affordable price.
PoE: The power over Ethernet (PoE) switch sends data and energy to the connected devices, meaning devices on the network can function without needing to be near an AC access point or router.
PoE switches minimize cable and save costs on power outlets, infrastructure equipment, and electrical installation.
Benefits of Industrial Switches
Increase the available bandwidth of the network
Reduce network downtime
Improves the performance of the network
The robust security features help protect the corporate network
Connects directly to workstations
Remote management helps in reducing IT and wiring expenses.