Best Computer Networking Switches in 2022


If you’re in the market for computer networking switches, you’ll want to make sure you’re choosing the best product for your needs. A switch is a hardware device that allows multiple computers to connect to a single network, and it’s an essential part of any home or business network. There are many types of switches available, from basic models to more advanced ones, and it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.

First, it’s important to consider the number of ports you need. Switches come in various sizes, with some having just a few ports and others having dozens. If you’re only connecting a few devices, then a small switch should be sufficient. If you’re connecting several computers, servers, and other devices, then a larger switch with more ports might be necessary.

Second, consider the type of networking you’re using. Switches support both wired and wireless networks, and some models can even support both types. If you’re only using a wired network, then a traditional switch should suffice. However, if you’re using a wireless network, then you’ll need to make sure you buy a switch that supports it.

Third, consider the speed of the switch. Modern switches can support speeds of up to 10 Gigabits per second (Gbps) or higher, and you’ll want to make sure your switch can support the highest speeds available. This will ensure you get the best performance from your network.

Finally, consider the features of the switch. Some switches come with extra features such as Quality of Service (QoS), which allows you to prioritize certain types of traffic over others, or port aggregation, which combines multiple ports into one. These features can be very useful in certain situations, so make sure you choose a switch that has the features you need.

Choosing the right computer networking switch can be a daunting task, but with the right information, you can make sure you’re getting the best product for your needs. Be sure to consider the number of ports you need, the type of network you’re using, the speed of the switch, and any extra features it may have. With this knowledge, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and get the most out of your network.

1. Aumox 5 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch, Desktop, Unmanaged Ethernet Splitter, Durable Metal Casing, Traffic Optimization, Fanless Quite, Plug and Play(AM-SG205)

Aumox 5 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch, Desktop, Unmanaged Ethernet Splitter, Durable Metal Casing, Traffic Optimization, Fanless Quite, Plug and Play(AM-SG205)

Informations:

Review:

Outstanding tiny unmanaged 5 port switch. The switch itself is incredibly tiny, measuring only 4"x2.5"x1". I have no problems utilizing it to split a single wall jack to several AV devices and an NVR because the metal enclosure seems quite strong. The lights on top indicate power and port activity, and it does have two slots on the rear so that it may be hung. Since it has no moving components and is so reasonably priced, overall I am extremely satisfied with it. It is silent since it lacks a cooling fan. The main drawback is that it only includes a power cord and a switch; no ethernet is included, but considering the price, this is hardly a problem.

2. TP-Link 5 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch | Ethernet Splitter | Sturdy Metal w/ Shielded Ports | Plug-and-Play | Traffic Optimization | Unmanaged (TL-SG105)

TP-Link 5 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch | Ethernet Splitter | Sturdy Metal w/ Shielded Ports | Plug-and-Play | Traffic Optimization | Unmanaged (TL-SG105)

Informations:

RELIABLE METAL CASE Fanless Desktop or wall mounting design, quiet. Operating Temperature: 32 degrees Fahrenheit to 104 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius to 40 degrees Celsius).

5 Ports Gigabit auto negotiation with GIGABIT ETHERNET 5 at 10/100/1000 Mbps Network capacity is considerably increased with RJ45 ports.

STICK AND PLAY Simple setup with no software or configuration required

Power Savings of up to 84 percent Automatically modifies power usage in accordance with the link status and cable length

Traffic optimization techniques 802.1p and DSCP QoS allow latency-sensitive traffic, like voice and video, to flow smoothly.#

Review:

This 5 port GB switch is excellent for everyday home use. I have been using their brand for ten years, and I have used two of their 5-port GB switches for six months. All of my non-portable network gadgets are connected to my network via hardwired connections. This implies that both high-demand and low-demand devices are connected. Additionally, each switch will only have one connected device that requires a specific grade of service. This switch is ideal in that setting.A little more: a device like this, which is unmanaged, is excellent for expanding each drop of a managed switch or router. Consider placing two computers, a printer, and an Ethernet drop in one bedroom. I can connect the three devices using this 5-port switch, with room to spare for a fourth.One of these switches in the living room enables for the connection of a TV, an Apple TV, an internet radio receiver, and a Blu-ray player. Firmware updates are done via the connection to the Blu-ray player. I only use one device at a time while accessing online sources, so there is no competition for throughput or service quality. My family's network-related activities are unaffected negatively by the switch's lack of managed network control.The fact that this switch is unmanaged is not a practical issue for my purposes or, I assume, the majority of other applications at home. Small office environments are likely to have throughput limitations caused by other network components and individual computers rather than this switch.Therefore, give this switch serious consideration if your demands are for a few devices to be linked to a single Ethernet drop.

3. NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS105NA) - Desktop, and ProSAFE Limited Lifetime Protection

NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS105NA) - Desktop, and ProSAFE Limited Lifetime Protection

Informations:

Every NETGEAR Network switch is extensively tested for dependability, quality, and performance because they are designed to last.

ENERGY EFFICIENT: Created to optimize power usage and save operating costs; The majority of models are IEEE802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet compatible.

VERSATILE MOUNTING OPTIONS: Supports mounting on a wall or desktop.

PLUG AND PLAY: Straightforward installation requiring no software installation or configuration.

5 Gigabit ports configured for Ethernet.

SILENT OPERATION: Because of the fanless design, there is no extra noise produced anywhere it is used, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments.

PROSAFE LIFETIME PROTECTION: Includes the best lifetime hardware warranty in the business, next business day replacement, and 24/7 expert chat from NETGEAR.#

Review:

These network switches have been in use by me for nearly 11 years. For my home network system, I have five. With three storeys and two offices, it is a sizable house. To cover my house and yard, I connect 3 servers, 6 tower PCs, 1 laptop, 4 laser printers, 2 digital security video systems, ROKUs, and numerous AP systems. Additionally, I have two WiFi networks with strong AP points.With these switches, I've had wonderful success. After ten years, I did have one fail, and when I called the firm, I was given a free replacement, which was sent in two days. Since then, I've bought two more in order to have backups and to expand into our finished basement.Based on the high product quality, effective performance, and excellent customer care I have observed, I will only buy Netgear switches. They stand by their lifetime warranty, and as a result, I am a devoted client. This is a highly trustworthy business, and they offer an excellent warranty to support their items. It's set up in my basement as a network hub, and it functions perfectly. High-quality goods. This item comes highly recommended. I appreciate that these hubs are plug-and-play and require no maintenance. They operate effectively and are trouble-free. Top notch, with helpful assistance and a fantastic warranty! What I admire about them is how nicely they function; you hardly even notice they are part of your network infrastructure.Why settle for inferior goods when you can get superior goods at a great price with the greatest warranty possible? My prior use of this product has convinced me that it is of the highest quality and offers top-notch customer service.I enjoy the quality and customer service so much that I have bought several of these units for usage in my home.It's comforting to know that this high-tech vendor stands by the quality of their offering.

4. NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS108) - Desktop, and ProSAFE Limited Lifetime Protection

NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS108) - Desktop, and ProSAFE Limited Lifetime Protection

Informations:

PROSAFE LIFETIME PROTECTION: Backed by the greatest lifetime hardware warranty in the business, next business day replacement, and 24/7 expert chat from NETGEAR.

VERSATILE MOUNTING OPTIONS: Supports mounting on a wall or desktop.

PLUG-AND-PLAY: Straightforward installation requiring no configuration or software to be installed.

EVERY NETGEAR NETWORK SWITCH IS STRICTLY TESTED FOR RELIABILITY, QUALITY, AND PERFORMANCE AND IS BUILT TO LAST.

8 Gigabit ports configured for Ethernet.

ENERGY EFFICIENT: Created to optimize power usage and save operating costs. The majority of models are IEEE802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet compatible.

THE FANLESS DESIGN MEANS THAT THERE IS NO ADDED NOISE WHEREVER IT IS LOCATED, MAKING IT PERFECT FOR NOISE-SENSITIVE AREAS.#

Review:

These network switches have been in use by me for nearly 11 years. For my home network system, I have five. With three storeys and two offices, it is a sizable house. To cover my house and yard, I connect 3 servers, 6 tower PCs, 1 laptop, 4 laser printers, 2 digital security video systems, ROKUs, and numerous AP systems. Additionally, I have two WiFi networks with strong AP points.With these switches, I've had wonderful success. After ten years, I did have one fail, and when I called the firm, I was given a free replacement, which was sent in two days. Since then, I've bought two more in order to have backups and to expand into our finished basement.Based on the high product quality, effective performance, and excellent customer care I have observed, I will only buy Netgear switches. They stand by their lifetime warranty, and as a result, I am a devoted client. This is a highly trustworthy business, and they offer an excellent warranty to support their items. It's set up in my basement as a network hub, and it functions perfectly. High-quality goods. This item comes highly recommended. I appreciate that these hubs are plug-and-play and require no maintenance. They operate effectively and are trouble-free. Top notch, with helpful assistance and a fantastic warranty! What I admire about them is how nicely they function; you hardly even notice they are part of your network infrastructure.Why settle for inferior goods when you can get superior goods at a great price with the greatest warranty possible? My prior use of this product has convinced me that it is of the highest quality and offers top-notch customer service.I enjoy the quality and customer service so much that I have bought several of these units for usage in my home.It's comforting to know that this high-tech vendor stands by the quality of their offering.

5. TP-Link 8 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch | Ethernet Splitter | Sturdy Metal w/ Shielded Ports | Plug-and-Play | Traffic Optimization | Unmanaged (TL-SG108)

TP-Link 8 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch | Ethernet Splitter | Sturdy Metal w/ Shielded Ports | Plug-and-Play | Traffic Optimization | Unmanaged (TL-SG108)

Informations:

Review:

It gets warm in my garage, where I've put this switch for security cameras for almost two years (the garage is not cooled). Yesterday, when it was over 100 degrees outside, I lost connectivity to two cameras and discovered the switch was the problem. When I entered my hot garage, I noticed that a window was letting sunshine shine straight on the switch. When I pressed the switch, it was really hot. It was definitely baking; a thermometer would have been helpful. I found it hard to comprehend that it was even operating. The switch was relocated out of direct sunlight so that it could cool overnight. This morning, I examined my cameras, and they were all functional.Because of the extreme conditions that it was undoubtedly not designed to withstand, I had anticipated that this switch would malfunction the first summer it was in the garage. I'm impressed that it's still functional. I'll replace it with a similar model if and when it breaks.

6. NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch, Desktop, Internet Splitter, Fanless, Plug-and-Play (GS208)

NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch, Desktop, Internet Splitter, Fanless, Plug-and-Play (GS208)

Informations:

Silent operation: Because the fanless design produces no additional noise wherever it is used, it is perfect for situations that require low noise levels.

Plug-and-play: a quick setup requiring no installation of additional software or configuration

Small and silent desktop form factor for quiet operation, fan-free

Made to last: Each NETGEAR network switch is put through a battery of tests to ensure its dependability, quality, and performance.

8 Gigabit ports are configured as the Ethernet ports.

8 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet ports with up to 10x the performance of Fast Ethernet

Multiple mounting options: allows for placement on a wall or desktop#

Review:

It gets warm in my garage, where I've put this switch for security cameras for almost two years (the garage is not cooled). Yesterday, when it was over 100 degrees outside, I lost connectivity to two cameras and discovered the switch was the problem. When I entered my hot garage, I noticed that a window was letting sunshine shine straight on the switch. When I pressed the switch, it was really hot. It was definitely baking; a thermometer would have been helpful. I found it hard to comprehend that it was even operating. The switch was relocated out of direct sunlight so that it could cool overnight. This morning, I examined my cameras, and they were all functional.Because of the extreme conditions that it was undoubtedly not designed to withstand, I had anticipated that this switch would malfunction the first summer it was in the garage. I'm impressed that it's still functional. I'll replace it with a similar model if and when it breaks.

7. NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS305) - Desktop, Sturdy Metal Fanless Housing

NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS305) - Desktop, Sturdy Metal Fanless Housing

Informations:

PLUG AND PLAY: Straightforward installation requiring no software installation or configuration.

PEACE OF MIND WARRANTY - Covered by a 3 year limited hardware warranty that leads the industry.

5 Gigabit ports configured for Ethernet.

VERSATILE MOUNTING OPTIONS: Supports mounting on a wall or desktop.

ENERGY EFFICIENT: Created to optimise power usage and save operating costs; The majority of models are IEEE802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet compatible.

Every NETGEAR Network switch is extensively tested for dependability, quality, and performance because they are designed to last.

SILENT OPERATION: Because of the fanless design, there is no extra noise produced anywhere it is used, making it perfect for noise-sensitive situations.#

Review:

It gets warm in my garage, where I've put this switch for security cameras for almost two years (the garage is not cooled). Yesterday, when it was over 100 degrees outside, I lost connectivity to two cameras and discovered the switch was the problem. When I entered my hot garage, I noticed that a window was letting sunshine shine straight on the switch. When I pressed the switch, it was really hot. It was definitely baking; a thermometer would have been helpful. I found it hard to comprehend that it was even operating. The switch was relocated out of direct sunlight so that it could cool overnight. This morning, I examined my cameras, and they were all functional.Because of the extreme conditions that it was undoubtedly not designed to withstand, I had anticipated that this switch would malfunction the first summer it was in the garage. I'm impressed that it's still functional. I'll replace it with a similar model if and when it breaks.

8. NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS308) - Desktop, Sturdy Metal Fanless Housing

NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS308) - Desktop, Sturdy Metal Fanless Housing

Informations:

SILENT OPERATION: Because of the fanless design, there is no extra noise produced anywhere it is used, making it perfect for noise-sensitive situations.

8 Gigabit ports configured for Ethernet.

VERSATILE MOUNTING OPTIONS: Supports mounting on a wall or desktop.

PEACE OF MIND WARRANTY - Covered by a 3 year limited hardware warranty that leads the industry.

PLUG AND PLAY: Straightforward installation requiring no software installation or configuration.

ENERGY EFFICIENT: Created to optimise power usage and save operating costs; The majority of models are IEEE802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet compatible.

Every NETGEAR Network switch is rigorously tested for dependability, quality, and performance, making them built to last;#

Review:

It gets warm in my garage, where I've put this switch for security cameras for almost two years (the garage is not cooled). Yesterday, when it was over 100 degrees outside, I lost connectivity to two cameras and discovered the switch was the problem. When I entered my hot garage, I noticed that a window was letting sunshine shine straight on the switch. When I pressed the switch, it was really hot. It was definitely baking; a thermometer would have been helpful. I found it hard to comprehend that it was even operating. The switch was relocated out of direct sunlight so that it could cool overnight. This morning, I examined my cameras, and they were all functional.Because of the extreme conditions that it was undoubtedly not designed to withstand, I had anticipated that this switch would malfunction the first summer it was in the garage. I'm impressed that it's still functional. I'll replace it with a similar model if and when it breaks.

9. NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged PoE Switch (GS305P) - with 4 x PoE @ 55W, Desktop, Sturdy Metal Fanless Housing

NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged PoE Switch (GS305P) - with 4 x PoE @ 55W, Desktop, Sturdy Metal Fanless Housing

Informations:

THE FANLESS DESIGN MEANS THAT THERE IS NO ADDED NOISE WHEREVER IT IS LOCATED, MAKING IT PERFECT FOR NOISE-SENSITIVE AREAS.

VERSATILE MOUNTING OPTIONS: Supports mounting on a wall or desktop.

A 3-year limited hardware guarantee that leads the industry provides customers with peace of mind.

PLUG-AND-PLAY: Straightforward installation requiring no configuration or software to be installed.

5 Gigabit ports configured for Ethernet.

EVERY NETGEAR NETWORK SWITCH IS STRICTLY TESTED FOR RELIABILITY, QUALITY, AND PERFORMANCE AND IS BUILT TO LAST.

4 PoE ports with a total power budget of 55W for power over Ethernet

ENERGY EFFICIENT: Created to optimise power usage and reduce operating costs. The majority of models are IEEE802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet compliant.#

Review:

I am an IT expert and the owner of a business that focuses on providing home and small business customers with IT assistance and services.For expert users, this PoE switch offers a variety of configuration options. The switch was delivered in a well wrapped manner, as one would anticipate for a Netgear product.After completing the switch's installation and connecting all of my ports, the switch operated flawlessly without the need for settings. Since this is a smart switch, even a novice user shouldn't have any issues operating it.It appears that this product is of great quality. It is made of thick, solid metal. Incredibly, it also came with rack mounting brackets, which I thought was a nice touch.Make sure you are aware of the overall power requirements for the PoE devices you will be connecting to this when you buy the device.Get a PoE switch for every user, overall!

10. Ubiquiti UniFi Switch 8 60W (US-8-60W)

Ubiquiti UniFi Switch 8 60W (US-8-60W)

Informations:

Block-Free Throughput Gigabit Ethernet connections are available in the new 8-port versions' small form factor. Each UniFi Switch supports a maximum throughput of 8 Gbps for its overall, non-blocking throughput.

A gigabit switch with eight ports and four 802.3af PoE ports is called the US-8-60W. Up to 15.4W of power can be delivered by each of its auto-sensing PoE ports.

Eight Gigabit RJ-45 Ethernet ports 802.3af Auto-Sensing PoE Ports, 4 16 Gbps Switching Capacity with 8 Gbps Non-Block Throughput

Switching Power #

Review:

This 8 port device is excellent (actually 10 port with sfp ports). It's the ideal answer, and I set this person up at my house.Pros: To start, the construction quality is excellent. The metal casing has the impression of being covered in a finish that almost glitters when illuminated. When you shake it, nothing rattles and the construction is solid.Second, I adore how this unit's power supply is integrated into the frame. After a brief period of ownership, I returned the 8 port 60 watt model in favor of this one. The provided power cord for the 60 watt model has a power brick, but not the one for this model. It neatens up cabling.Third, if you only need a few additional ports, the bundled sfp ports are good. You may add two extra rj45 ports using copper gbic sfp modules. Installing a fiber optic sfp module is another alternative if you want to introduce fiber optic directly to the switch.The ability of all 8 copper ports to push POE is the fourth (802.1af AND 802.1at POE standards). This is a wonderful way to provide your Unifi APs and some Unifi cameras that can use the 802.1at POE standard more power.Fifth, I adore the software for the Unifi controller. It is quick to set up and operate. The unified controller for all of my equipment was one of the primary factors in my decision to go with Ubiquiti. I adore having my home network configured and monitored in a single location.Con:I can only remark that $200 is expensive for an 8 port switch. However, I can justify spending $200 on an 8 port, 2sfp, 802.1at, and ubiquiti Unifi software switch.Ubiquiti, keep up the good work. More features like native vlan setup per port, dhcp snooping, Switch port Mac security, and lldp compatibility when connecting non-ubiquiti devices are things I would want to see added to the Unifi controller. I would be more willing to set up ubiquiti for my corporate networks if it had some of those other functions. the first updateFIRST UPDATE: 4/11/2018The switch and the unifi controller both receive regular software upgrades from Ubiquiti. They've added several fantastic features that I wish they had at the start of my review.Switchport Profiles - You can use this to set up a profile for a certain switchport function. A few examples are uplinks, POE ports, AP ports, phone ports, camera ports, etc. For trunked ports, you can now designate a native vlan and restrict access to specific vlans. Other sophisticated options are now available, including rate limitation, manual LLDP setup, multicast control, manual link negotiation (duplex and speed), and storm management (multicast, broadcast, and unknown unicast flooding!). It's great that the controller now has some of these more sophisticated functions available! If the software keeps developing at this rate, my $200 investment should perform well.

About Author

Matt Grabowsky

My name is Matt Grabowsky and for over two decades I have been observing technological and social trends, talking about them and explaining them in an accessible way.