A Power over Ethernet (PoE) network switch is essential to any PoE-capable business network. A regular switch allows devices to connect to a local area network (LAN) and share information. However, for small business networks, a PoE hub can be used to connect devices and manage information sharing. Determining whether you need a PoE hub versus a switch for your network can be challenging. This article outlines the key elements you should consider to decide which product is the right solution for your needs.
What to Consider When Choosing a Network PoE Hub or Switch for Your Small Business
A hub is a device that connects the devices within your network. An active hub will have its own dedicated power supply and will actively participate in the transmission process, cleaning and improving network signals as it relays them. A passive hub, on the other hand, sends signals into the network but does not improve those signals or clean them. A switch, on the other hand, controls the connection of devices on the network by opening or closing connections to allow the signal or power to pass through. A PoE switch can simplify running cables and provide more flexibility.
There are several factors to consider when determining which solution best suits your needs.
1. Basic Functions to Expect from Small Business Hubs or Switches
Hubs tend to have fewer features, making them the more straightforward option. For a basic small business network, hubs are often the ideal choice. Sometimes, however, you may need the extra features of aswitch. Consider, for example, whether you need high-speed access or improved voice quality for business calls. You may also want to consider affordability and ease of setup and use. Both decisions can ultimately influence your choice of which hub or switch is right for your needs.
2. Available Network Speeds
The network speed you need can depend on several factors, from what type of data you need to transmit to how many users you have on your network. A wide range of Ethernet network speed options are available, from the standard Ethernet speed of 10 Mbps to 10 gigabit Ethernet, which transmits a whopping 10 Gbps. While the 10 gigabit Ethernet option may be the fastest, it consumes much more power than the other options, which may be a better solution for many smaller businesses. Make sure you carefully consider how fast you need your network to be as you select the right solution for your needs.
3. Available Ports
As you determine whether you want to choose a hub or switch for your network, carefully evaluate how many ports you will need. You can get switches in various sizes, including 5, 8, 10, 16, 24, 48, and 52-port options. Smaller enterprises may only need a smaller switch with connection options for just a few devices. On the other hand, a larger business may need those essential ports, including the 48 or 52-port options.
As you determine how many ports you need for your network, make sure you take your future needs into account. You don’t want to select a 5 or 8-port option only to realize that you need to upgrade to 10, 16, or more within a few short years.
4. Managed vs. Unmanaged Options
Unmanaged hubs and switches are simple plug-and-play solutions that you can set up and use immediately. They are less expensive than managed switch options. Their fixed configuration makes them fast and easy to set up and use. However, you cannot change or adjust the configuration later as your requirements change.
Managed hubs or switches, on the other hand, allow you to add your features, including options like security or routing control. While they are more easily customized, managed hubs and switches may take longer to set up and deploy.
5. Power over Ethernet (PoE) Compatibility and Solutions
Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology allows both power and data to transmit over a single twisted-pair cable, increasing connectivity and making it easier to place network devices in the best locations depending on what need they are meeting. PoE solutions can lead to decreased energy costs, including an up to 50 percent reduction in energy usage. In addition, they often mean decreased installation and materials costs and even a decrease in annual operating costs for the business.
PoE brings many benefits to small businesses. Using PoE can lead to substantial cost savings but may also mean you’ll have an easy, low-voltage installation that can get your new devices up and running faster. Furthermore, PoE allows for enhanced flexibility and control. In many cases, PoE solutions will enable you to install devices in locations where it might otherwise be difficult or inconvenient to place them. Furthermore, it can increase sustainability across your office.
Improving Your Business Network with PoE
PoE provides essential solutions and benefits for your business. You can, for example, improve overall efficiency by tracking the movement of traffic throughout the office and turning off heating or lighting in unoccupied rooms or merging building systems into a single IP network, which can make them easier to control. Furthermore, you can collect data that will allow you to predict office usage, evaluate potential costs, and learn more about potential needs.
Choose the Right Hub or Switch for Your Network
Selecting the right hub or switch option is critical for meeting your connectivity needs while improving efficiency and decreasing costs across your office. A PoE hub or switch, combined with a backup power supply, can make setting up and maintaining your small business network much easier. With PoE, devices receive power and data through one cable, which means that the hub or switch and network will continue to operate due to the backup power supply, even during a power outage. By carefully considering your business’s unique needs, you can select the right solution for your network.
