Network switches in this category connect wired devices such as computers, access points, IP cameras, printers and servers to one local network. They suit home offices, small businesses and server cabinets that need more Ethernet ports than a router provides. Models from TP-Link and MikroTik are available.
How to choose a network switch
Port count and speed. Count every wired device you have now, then add a few spare ports for growth. Gigabit ports are enough for most offices, while 2.5G or 10G ports make sense if you move large files to a NAS or server.
Managed or unmanaged. An unmanaged switch works as soon as it is plugged in and needs no setup. A managed switch lets you create VLANs, prioritise traffic, monitor ports and limit access, which matters once a network has guest Wi-Fi, VoIP phones or cameras that should be kept separate.
Power over Ethernet. A PoE switch powers access points, IP cameras and VoIP phones through the network cable, so they need no separate adapters or nearby sockets. Check the total PoE power budget as well as the number of PoE ports, because the budget decides how many devices can run at once.
Uplinks and fibre. SFP or SFP+ slots allow a fibre or high-speed link to another switch or a server. They are worth having if the switch will connect different rooms or floors, or if you plan to expand the network later.
Operating conditions. Switches in a cupboard, garage or outbuilding face wider temperature and humidity swings than those in an office. Specifications in our range include operating relative humidity of 10 to 90%, storage humidity of 5 to 90% and a storage temperature of -40 to 80 °C, so compare these figures when the switch will not sit in a climate-controlled room.
Network switch brands we carry
- TP-Link: known for a long line of switches from simple unmanaged desktop models to managed JetStream and Omada-compatible models that can be controlled together with TP-Link access points and routers.
- MikroTik: known for Cloud Router Switch models that run RouterOS or SwOS, giving detailed control over VLANs and routing, often with SFP+ ports, in a form that appeals to network administrators.
Network switch FAQ
What does a network switch do?
A network switch connects several wired devices on the same local network and passes data only to the port that needs it. This lets computers, servers, cameras and access points communicate quickly without flooding the whole network. It adds ports but does not create an internet connection by itself.
What is the difference between a switch and a router?
A router connects your local network to the internet and directs traffic between networks. A switch only links devices within one network. Most small networks use both: the router handles the internet connection and the switch adds more wired ports.
Do I need a managed or an unmanaged switch?
An unmanaged switch is enough for a simple home or small office network where every device can talk to every other. Choose a managed switch if you need VLANs, traffic prioritisation, port monitoring or remote configuration. Managed models also suit networks that may grow.
Do I need a PoE switch?
You need a PoE switch if you plan to run devices such as IP cameras, ceiling access points or VoIP phones that can take power through the network cable. Without PoE, each of those devices needs its own power supply or injector. Check that the switch's total PoE budget covers all the devices you plan to connect.
