For those people who want to optimize their networks and improve their speed, having the best network switch is a must. These devices allow you to have better organized, fast and efficient Wi-Fi networks that can handle many users at the same time thanks to their good data handling, fast response times and great features such as many ports or improved security. With these devices you can forget about having very slow networks without any explanation and you will be able to make the most of the connections in all your devices, from smartphones to laptops and appliances connected to the network. You just have to put the network cables, configure the switch, be it compact or modular and voilà, you will have networks that work much better.
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The best network switches available in the UK
We know that every time you go to buy something you come across this big question. That is why in this article we plan to get rid of all your doubts and help you get the best model on the market, the one that best suits you and your requirements and that will really make you notice the desired improvements in your network. For this we have prepared the following comparative list with the best network hubs currently available. You just have to take a look and choose the most suitable for you. Later you can find out about the general characteristics of these devices and what you should expect and look for in each of them.
1 TP-LINK TL-SG1005D – 5-port network switch
It is, without a doubt, one of the models with the most attractive design and far from the typical gray or black box, totally rectangular and very inconspicuous. This unmanaged Gigabit Ethernet model really rocks and is the most affordable on the list. It has 5 ports for network cable and speeds of 10/100/1000 Mbps, automatic detection of network speed, automatic support for MDI / MDIX and a 3-year warranty. You can also buy it in its 8-entry version. It also includes IEEE 802.3x standard flow control for reliable data transmission and plug and play mode that does not require any configuration or prior process to connect it to your network. In turn, it has energy savings for Ethernet that reduces consumption by 70% and a plastic housing with the ideal design for use as a desktop device or for mounting on the wall.
2.Netgear GS205-100PES
Another unmanaged model, but this time from another excellent brand like Netgear. It is a device with 5 gigabit ports of 10/100/1000 Mbps type RJ45 UTP and that complies with the IEEE 802.3u and IEEE 802.3 standards. This switch works with ADSL modem and Router, has a good buffer memory of 0.75 MB and has energy savings in its inputs to reduce energy consumption. Its connection mode is really easy and fast for homes and small environments, since it connects automatically and without configuration due to its plug and play mode. It is also one of the cheapest on the list. It is available in white, it has LEDs to check the status of each port, it automatically turns off when there is no signal to save energy and it is available in various presentations from 5 to 48 inputs and even with PoE functionality.
3 Cisco SG110D-08
Now we present another unmanaged port with high-speed Gigabit Ethernet mode, since it handles speeds of 10/100/1000 Mbps, and is highly versatile due to its 8 ports. On the other hand, it has several IEEE network standards: 802.1p, 802.3, 802.3ab, 802.3az, 802.3u and 802.3x. Additionally, it comes with 128 MB of flash memory and an additional 128 MB of internal memory. It supports automatic support for MDI/MDIX, has a QoS function, has 16 Gbit/s switching capability, and although it has flow control support, it does not have PoE functionality. Finally, it is a fairly light model of 430 grams, small and compact, with a performance of 11.9 Mpps and a good price for the quality and features it offers.
4.Linksys SE4008-EJ
As one of the most popular brands in networking and Wi-Fi solutions, this managed network switch is quite good and convenient as it comes with 8 high-speed Gigabit Ethernet ports and more. It comes with QoS function to improve streaming or online gaming transmissions in real time and includes automatic speed detection to maximize data flow in 10/100/1000 Mbps. In turn, the advanced power saving mode detects which of the inputs are not in use and avoids unnecessary expenses, so it also saves you good money.
5 Zyxel GS1900-8
If you don’t mind spending a little more and getting the most expensive model on our comparison list, this 8-port Gigabit Ethernet 10/100/1000 Mbps switch with switching type RJ45 is for you. This device supports automatic MDI/MDIX, works with full duplex and also supports QoS technology to properly divide your internet usage for more satisfying live streaming or gaming experiences. At the same time, it complies with various IEEE standards such as 802.1Q, 802.1x, 802.3at, 802.3az, 802.3u, 802.3x and others. Although it does not have PoE support, it does have support for VLANs and flow control.
