In recent times, high-speed networks have become the pursuit for businesses and households across the globe, making daily life more comfortable and facilitating business growth. Gigabit switches play an important role in building high-speed networks and are widely used around the world. This article introduces the different types of 1G network switches, and how to choose the right Gigabit Ethernet switch, as well as FS switch recommendations.
What is a Gigabit Switch?
A gigabit switch is a type of Ethernet network switch that allows devices to be connected to a LAN at speeds of 1 Gbps or higher. Gigabit Ethernet replaced Fast Ethernet as a new network standard for increased speed. A Gigabit Ethernet switch is a higher version of a Fast Ethernet switch, meeting the demands of internet service providers for high speeds. 1G Ethernet switches are available in a variety of configurations, forming various types of switches to provide different services:
Unmanaged switches are designed to be plug-and-play with fixed configuration, providing basic connectivity for a small LAN or single user. These switches are normally used in small businesses where precise network control is not as crucial.
Managed switches are designed with greater control and advanced functionality to support the user experience, security, manageability, and scalability. They allow Ethernet devices to connect with each other, realizing the ability to configure, manage, and monitor local area network (LAN) traffic.
Smart switches feature limited management functions, allowing traffic self-management. They offer less scalability than other switches and can be used as infrastructure for smaller and less complex networks.
PoE switches support data transmission and power supply for several network devices using an existing Ethernet cable. They greatly simplify cabling and increase the flexibility and reach of connected systems.
FS Gigabit Switches: Suitable for Various Networking Requirements
With extensive industry experience and expertise, FS offers an exclusive line of 1G network switches with a wide range of port types and rich functional features, suitable for a variety of different applications. These switches offer versatile designs for better operational performance, helping to ensure a more secure experience and build a sustainable network for the future.
| Models | Ports | PoE Supported | Managed Unmanaged | Features Supported |
| S3900-48T6S-R | 48x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ45 | 6x 10G SFP+ | non-PoE | Managed | QoS, IGMP Snooping, Link Aggregation, IPv6, L3 Static Routing RIP, OSPF |
| S3900-24T4S-R | 24x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ45 | 4x 10G SFP+ | non-PoE | Managed | |
| S5810-28FS | 28x 1G SFP, 8x 1G RJ45/SFP Combo | 4x 1G/10G SFP+ | non-PoE | Managed | |
| S5810-48FS | 48x 1G SFP | 4x 1G/10G SFP+ | non-PoE | Managed | |
| S3150-8T2FP | 8x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ45 | 2x 1G SFP | PoE+ | Managed | |
| S3400-24T4FP | 24x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ45 | 4x 1G RJ45/SFP Combo | PoE+ | Managed | |
| S3260-16T4FP | 16x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ45 | 2x 1G SFP, 2x 1G RJ45/SFP Combo | PoE+ | Managed | |
| IES3100-8TF-P | 8x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ45 | 2x 100/1000/2500BASE-X SFP | PoE+ | Managed | VLAN, QoS, LACP, IGMP, ACL, DHCP, Static Routing, MSTP |
How to Select the Right Gigabit Switch for Your Network？
Ethernet switches play a significant role in enterprise network architecture and deserve serious selection. The following are the factors to consider when selecting 1G switches, which can provide you with some guidance.
Number of Ports You Need
First of all, determine how many network switch ports you need for your network. You need to not only calculate the number of connected devices in your home or business environment but also anticipate future connectivity needs. If it’s just for a home network that needs to connect three devices and a router, an 8 or 12-port Gigabit Ethernet switch is appropriate, due to the capability of future-proofing and connectivity for other devices provided. If you need a switch for a large network in a fast-growing enterprise, 24-port and 48-port managed switches are good choices, such as FS S3900-24T4S-R and FS S3900-48T6S-R.
Capability to Power Devices
Power over Ethernet (PoE) has become an important factor for users to consider when purchasing a network switch in recent years. This technology enables the capability to use existing Ethernet cables to power connected devices, such as VoIP phones, network surveillance cameras, or wireless access points. If you need this function, select a PoE Gigabit Ethernet switch. Make sure the power per port (in watts) and the total power budget of the PoE ports meet the needs of your network devices.Check FS S3400-24T4FP to see if it meets your needs.
Features
The features of network switches determine the functions and services they can offer. Unmanaged switches and smart switches lack network management and monitoring capabilities. Managed switches provide features, such as traffic management, troubleshooting, access controls, and monitoring. Some common features, including LACP, VLAN, QoS, IGMP Snooping, Link Aggregation, and OSPF, also need to be considered. FS 1G network switches are designed as managed switches with a rich set of features that encompass the above features.Other features, such as noise, may be overlooked. However, for homes or small offices, it is important to consider the noise generated by 1G network switches. FS S3150-8T2FP switch has a low-power and noiseless design, and supports secure desktop connectivity, suitable for deployments in working areas or home scenarios. In conclusion, before choosing a switch, double-check that it provides the features you need.
Applications
Special application scenarios will place additional requirements on Gigabit switches. For example, industrial scenarios pose higher requirements on the switch in terms of operating temperature, enclosure design, management, and durability. You need to check whether the Gigabit Ethernet switch can keep working well in the application scenario you want.If you need a switch for industrial scenarios, the FS IES3100-8TF-P can meet your needs to maintain stable operation in harsh environments, such as low temperatures and high vibration, and to enable easy network management.
The Closing Thought
To build a future-proof and reliable network, the selection of a switch needs to be done carefully, considering multiple aspects. I hope the above points will be helpful to you. Besides, FS offers a wide range of Gigabit network switches, one of which may meet your needs. check FS.com to know more.
