Best Switch in 2020

Switches are used to expand the wired network. This allows you to use the Internet from different PCs using an additional router. This technique is especially important for computers without a Wi-Fi module installed, as well as for obtaining a stable connection to the network, for example, when working in video, in trade and other places. Powerful devices are suitable for large companies and creating data exchange capabilities. This article will help you identify the best switch in 2020 for any need.

Video from the author of the site:

Selection rules

Before purchasing a switch (switch), it is necessary to determine its main tasks that are available for execution and the principle of operation in general. From the technical point of view, these are ordinary devices, similar to network ports with similar tasks. Their distinctive feature is that they create a stream of information that can be used for all installed PCs in their channels and have a lot of traffic. There are many parameters in devices that are important to consider before purchasing:

• To determine which switch is the best to buy, it is important to understand the need for port numbers. Modern models include 5 to 48 RJ-45 connectors. For example, if the network includes 4 PCs, then it makes no sense to buy a switch for 10 or 20 ports, but it is also not recommended to take models strictly end-to-end, it is better to have several connectors in stock. In addition to the number of ports, there are other important parameters.
• The higher the level in the device, the more efficiently it will cope with the tasks, this affects performance, but also increases the cost. There are 4 levels on sale at the moment, but the most popular among users are 2 and 3, and 4 is narrowly focused and very expensive.
• The performance of the device and the efficiency of all work depend on the base rate of information transfer. Devices can be with gaps of 10, 100 or 1000 Mb / s.
• Bandwidth indicates the upper limits of traffic that can pass through the switch in a certain amount of time. The indicator is divided into internal and external. In case of a higher value of the external capacity to the internal one, users will feel the processor slowdown under load and the hardware hang.
• Traffic management is an important factor for professional users and includes many features, so ordinary customers should not dwell on studying the issue.
• Monitoring, diagnostics, and security are a number of options that make the switch easier to use and operate. Many models can independently diagnose parameters in order to find faults and eliminate their causes, and also protect the devices from increased activity (viruses).
• Additional features that enhance functionality and usability. These include the presence of additional ports for peripherals, various forms of the case for mounting on a table, mounting on a table or other placement of the device, power supply and other characteristics.

These are the main points that you need to understand before buying, now you can consider the best models of switches from different segments for specific tasks.

The best switches for offices

Such models help to make one common working network on different floors. Switches are often 6-8 connectors, and employees can access the necessary documents, and the bosses can control the work of the staff.

D-Link DGS-1100-08

Multifunctional model with a simple body. The front side houses the main ports and a diode indicating the power status. The case is made in a rectangular shape, which simplifies the position of the switch.

Pros:

• To connect the cable, you do not need to turn the unit over.
• There are 8 ports at 1000 Mb / s.
• Current consumption depends on traffic, the more, the higher the costs.
• By connecting the cable up to 20 meters, the power is reduced, and the temperature of the switch will not exceed 40 degrees.
• Inactive ports are automatically disconnected from power.
• Using the program, it is easy to create a common network.
• Autodiagnostics of wires.
• 8000 MAC addresses are being tested all the time.

Minuses:

• Using 802.1q mode, there may be RX errors.
• There is no TELNET interface.

TP-LINK TL-SG1008D

The best office model with 8 ports, characterized by a stylish appearance, the main panel has indicators for channel link and power. The work items are on the back, so there will be no wires on the sides and front. Bandwidth 1000 Mb / s.

Pros:

• The MAC address can independently memorize data and add new users to the memory.
• High speed of work.
• The ability to transfer large amounts of data without degrading performance.
• Automatic polarity detection.
• 802.3x mode and maximum information protection.
• Desktop or wall-mounted arrangement due to separate holes.
• Minimal current consumption thanks to Green Ethernet system.
• 8 ports with quality architecture.

Minuses:

• Placing the device on the table, it will slide.
• Cannot be installed vertically on a horizontal surface.
• Plugging in a new cable may fly off the wall.

Rating of the best switches for home use

At home, you will need to use such a technique if you have several PCs or laptops that need to provide constant access to the Internet. Consumer models include several ports and are characterized by a small body, and to connect you just need to buy a cable.

TP-LINK TL-SF1005D

A model no larger than a credit card in size is considered the best option for the home. The body is made of plastic, can be attached to the wall with adhesive tape. The main ports are at the top and are convenient to use.

Pros:

• There are 5 numbered ports with connection LEDs.
• The optimal cost is 400 rubles.
• Automatic polarity detection.
• Data transfer using 802.3x stream with excellent data encryption.
• Constant channel test.
• 2000 MAC addresses with regular updates.
• Can accept wires up to 100 meters.
• Store-and-Forward technology.

Minuses:

• It gets very hot during operation.
• May underestimate the data transfer rate.
• Cable over 100 meters will result in data loss.

Netis ST3105S

The most affordable model at a cost of about 300 rubles. The model is cheap, but it copes with the tasks perfectly if you use the switch up to 20 hours a day. Top perforated casing for optimal ventilation. The power is on the side, while the rear has ports for 5 PCs.

Pros:

• small body is easy to place behind a monitor or in a desk;
• light indication on the front panel informs about the switching on of the device, presence in the communication channel;
• automatic MDI detection;
• the device is equipped with the energy-saving Green Ethernet technology, which saves up to 70% of electricity consumption;
• 802.3x protocol support provides high reliability in information transmission;
• does not require any settings (connecting a cable opens access to the network);
• holes for wall mounting are provided.

Minuses:

• It gets very hot under active load.
• The bandwidth is no more than 100 Mb / s, so it will be extremely difficult to download or transfer data from all devices at once.

Rating of the best switches for business

These models are characterized by a large number of ports, which allows the server to be connected to many PCs in large rooms. The administrator has the ability to control and customize work, differentiate clients, for example, exclude managers from accessing the network of accountants, you can see the traffic consumption for any network, breakdowns and the work of employees.

MikroTik Cloud Router Switch CRS125-24G-1S-IN

A professional-looking multifunctional apparatus from a Latvian brand that has been offering high-quality equipment for many years. This switch is characterized by the classic parameters of the manufacturer, among them a high level of reliability, great functional potential, wide and flexible options for setting up equipment. The model of the third control level, which is not inferior to the most expensive switches from the rating, but the cost is several times lower.

The model includes 24 ports that operate with different speed indicators in the gradation of 10, 100 and 1000 Mb / s. There is a possibility of automatic polarity detection, as well as a separate uplink port with a similar operating speed. There is a sufficient amount of RAM inside - 128 MB. Processor like Qualcomm Atheros AR9344 with a clock frequency of 600 MHz. Other features include a Web interface, a console port, SNMP and Telnet interface.

There is an additional USB input on the case, which allows you to connect flash drives or peripherals. Works under RouterOS OS. Using the SFP connector, the administrator is able to make any extensions, settings, for example, you can connect the device to fiber-optic networks without the use of auxiliary equipment and converters.

The manufacturer has implemented PoE, which provides power through a network input. The device is equipped with a small touch screen to monitor performance statistics and control certain functions. Style is a strict form factor made of a steel case with dimensions of 28.5 × 4.5 × 14.5 cm.

pros:

• Third level of management.
• Work with the full version of RouteOS OS with proprietary adaptation.
• The presence of a small screen.
• Wide possibilities for customization.
• Stable functioning.
• High reliability.
• Excellent value for money.

Among the disadvantages are complex settings that may be incomprehensible even to professionals.

TP-LINK TL-SG1024DE

A device with port mirroring, which is located on the case of 24 pieces. This allows the user to monitor traffic, as well as work and timely exclude loops, violations. All ports are located on one side, and there are perforations on the side to improve ventilation. Using manual settings, you can prioritize traffic to different channels.

Pros:

• If channels appear that are not in use, the power is automatically turned off to reduce electricity consumption and increase efficiency by 40%.
• Availability of 24 ports with bandwidth in the range of 10-1000 Mb / s.
• Work under the 802.3x protocol with protection.
• Information is accurately stored thanks to Jumbo frames supporting up to 10,000 bytes.
• Automatic wire diagnostics.
• You can prioritize voice and video messages.
• Based on the needs, you can group the network.
• The current flow is automatically determined based on the cable size.
• The enclosure is suitable for rack mounting.
• The optimal cost for a professional and managed device is 6,000 rubles.

Among the disadvantages are the inability to connect cameras for data transmission.

Linksys LGS552

It is recommended to buy this model for the largest enterprises as there are 50 channels in the main panel, which helps to make a big network. This eliminates the need for multiple switches.

The device is long with rectangular shapes. The sides have perforations for increased ventilation.Installation can be on a rack, wall or table. The machine can be controlled to monitor traffic on any PC.

pros:

• Suitable for use in buildings with any number of storeys and areas to distribute the connection in different offices and offices.
• Availability of 50 channels with automatic speed distribution in the range of 10-1000 Mb / s.
• Having a pair of separate combo ports.
• Ability to manage any channel to assess health and traffic usage.
• The warranty period from the manufacturer is 3 years.
• Supports the functioning of all 802.3 protocols.
• The presence of a diode indicator under any channel to show its activity.
• 16000 MAC addresses, which allows you to speed up the transfer of information when connecting other PCs.
• Built-in RAM in the amount of 128 MB.

Minuses:

• Model weight 5 kg.
• The price of the device is 35 thousand rubles.

Cisco WS-C3560G-24TS-S

One of the most expensive models from the American manufacturer, which for decades has been characterized by the best quality, high performance and reliability of network equipment. A switch with a third management module that allows different settings for management.

The described switch for 24 ports with dimensions of 47.5x4.4x37.8 cm and weighing 5.4 kg. The appearance is strictly server-based, so there are no unnecessary design elements on the case. Metal model with separate posts for rack mounting. Inside there is 128 MB of RAM and 32 MB of flash memory. Each channel operates in a large high-speed range - 10 Mbps-1 Gbps. The bandwidth of the equipment is as much as 32 Gb / s.

There are 12,228 MAC addresses, as well as support for different connection and control methods. For ease of use, there is a separate console-type port, as well as a Web interface. The machine supports Telnet and SNMP interface.

pros:

• 3rd level of management.
• Powerful and fast processor.
• High level of reliability and long service life.
• Professional model from all sides.

Among the disadvantages are high cost.

Video and Telephony Switches Rating

The segment contains devices that allow you to make a network of several PCs, as well as to connect additional devices (phones, cameras). For this opportunity, the PoE architecture is implemented, transmitting power and information at the same time, which helps to save on video surveillance.

Ubiquiti EdgeRouter X SFP

A small-sized switch with an external power supply unit in a separate case. Such a device is convenient to use, it can be discreetly placed on a table and connected to IP phones. There are 5 PoE ports with LED indicators on the case.

Pros:

• There is a built-in RAM of 256 MB.
• Availability of 5 ports with a bandwidth of 1000 Mb / s.
• There is an SFP slot.
• A dual-core processor with a clock speed of 800 MHz is installed.
• Low current consumption, 5 W per channel.
• Possibility of control via TELNET.

Among the shortcomings, there is a small warranty period, only 1 year.

TP-LINK TL-SG1008PE

Technology with 8 PoE ports, which allows data exchange between PC and cameras. The model will allow you to make video surveillance in a room with up to 7 cameras. With the help of the screen splitter, it turns out that you can simultaneously see the image from any camera. The technique independently determines the MAC addresses that are no longer used, and succeeds in them.

Pros:

• Each channel is 1000 Mb / s.
• Supports PoE + architecture.
• You can connect cameras or phones with IP, and the power will be through 1 port.
• By disabling inactive ports, it turns out that current consumption can be reduced by up to 75%.
• Priorities can be set for constant communication with critical equipment.
• Desktop or rack mounting.
• 8000 MAC addresses.
• The power supply is inside, the outside is a cable with a plug.
• Automatic polarity detection.
• 2 MB clipboard.
• The current consumption per port without using cameras will be 9.5 W.
• Work on the 802.3x module.
• Allows you to save all information through the trunk channel 16 Gb / s.

Minuses:

• One port consumes 30 watts for a total device power of 124 watts.Due to this, at maximum load, certain channels must be disconnected in order to get normal switch operation.
• The cost of the equipment is 6000 rubles.

After examining the rating, any potential buyer will be able to determine which switch is best to install at home, work or elsewhere, based on activity. The article was written based on the opinions of experts and users who appreciated all the pros and cons of switches.