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10 Best Ethernet Switches 2025 in the United States

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#1

Winner

HPE Networking Instant On Switch Series 1960 48-Port Gb Smart-Managed Layer 2+ Ethernet Switch with PoE | 48x 1G | 2X 10GBase-T, 2X SFP+ | 40x CL4, 8X CL6 PoE 600W | Stackable | US Cord (JL809A#ABA)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,113
Speed
Managed vs. Unmanaged

Most important from
15 reviews

Speed
The switch doubled my internet speed, making it a fantastic upgrade for connectivity.
Managed vs. Unmanaged
The setup is super simple, with the switch handling the basics on its own. Just plug it in and go.

The HPE Networking Instant On Switch Series 1960 is a smart-managed Layer 2+ Ethernet switch that’s particularly suitable for growing businesses. With its 48 gigabit ports and additional 10G uplink options, it offers robust connectivity and sufficient power for devices like IP cameras and phones through its Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities. The PoE function is particularly strong, providing 600W across 40 ports, which is great for powering multiple devices without needing extra outlets.

One standout feature is the ability to stack up to four switches, allowing easy expansion of network capacity while managing them from a single IP address. This can simplify operations for businesses that anticipate growth. The user-friendly setup and management options through the mobile app or web browser mean that even users without technical expertise can get their network running smoothly.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While it is stackable, managing multiple devices might still require some level of familiarity with networking concepts, which could be a hurdle for absolute beginners. Additionally, the weight and rack-mounted design mean it might not be the best fit for users needing a compact or easily portable solution. The product's price point may also be higher than basic unmanaged switches, so it's best for those who need smart-managed capabilities and PoE support.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,113
Speed
Managed vs. Unmanaged

Most important from
15 reviews

Speed
The switch doubled my internet speed, making it a fantastic upgrade for connectivity.
Managed vs. Unmanaged
The setup is super simple, with the switch handling the basics on its own. Just plug it in and go.
#2

HP JL255A E Aruba 2930F 24G PoE+ 4SFP+ Switch

The HP JL255A E Aruba 2930F switch is designed to meet the needs of small to medium-sized business networks that require reliable and efficient connectivity. With 24 ports, this switch allows for ample connections, making it suitable for environments where multiple devices need to be networked together. The inclusion of Power over Ethernet (PoE+) capability is a significant advantage, as it enables users to power devices like IP cameras and phones directly through the Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for separate power supplies.

In terms of management, this switch is a managed device, which means users have access to advanced features such as VLANs, network monitoring, and security settings. This is particularly beneficial for IT professionals who need to have more control over their network environment.

The switching capacity is robust, ensuring that data is transmitted efficiently across connected devices, which is crucial for maintaining performance as network traffic increases. It’s worth noting that this switch does come with a slightly higher price point compared to unmanaged switches. For users who are simply looking to expand their network without the need for advanced features, an unmanaged alternative might be more cost-effective. The form factor is also practical, fitting well in standard server or network racks. However, potential buyers should ensure that they have enough space for this switch in their setup.

The HP JL255A E Aruba 2930F is a solid choice for those needing a feature-rich managed switch with PoE capabilities, making it ideal for businesses looking for scalability and enhanced network management.

#3

Aruba a Hewlett Packard Enterprise company 6100 48G Class4 PoE 4SFP+ 370W Switch - JL675A#ABA US Localization/Cord

The Aruba 6100 48G Class4 PoE 4SFP+ 370W Switch is a solid choice for businesses looking for a managed Ethernet switch with a robust feature set. With 48 ports, it caters well to medium to large networks, allowing numerous devices to connect simultaneously. The Class 4 Power over Ethernet (PoE) support is a strong point, enabling power delivery to connected devices like IP cameras and VoIP phones without needing extra power sources. Additionally, the switch operates at layer 2, providing essential management features for improved network control and performance.

One of the highlights is its high switching capacity, which translates to efficient data handling across a busy network. The compact metal case also makes it durable, ideal for various environments.

However, being a managed switch, it may require some technical know-how to fully leverage its capabilities. Users who prefer a plug-and-play option without the need for extensive configuration may find this slightly challenging. Furthermore, while its weight is manageable, it's essential to consider the installation space, as it might take up more room than simpler, unmanaged switches. Lastly, the power capacity of 370W is impressive, but potential buyers should ensure this meets their specific needs, especially if they plan to power multiple devices.

The Aruba 6100 48G is an excellent option for network environments where management and PoE capabilities are essential, but it might not be the best fit for users seeking a straightforward, unmanaged solution.

Buying Guide for the Best Ethernet Switches

Choosing the right Ethernet switch for your network can significantly impact the performance and reliability of your connections. Ethernet switches are essential devices that connect multiple devices within a local area network (LAN) and manage data traffic efficiently. To select the best Ethernet switch for your needs, you should consider several key specifications that will determine how well the switch will perform in your specific environment.
Port CountThe port count refers to the number of devices that can be connected to the switch. This is important because it determines the scale of your network. Ethernet switches come with varying port counts, typically ranging from 5 to 48 ports or more. For small home networks or small offices, a switch with 5 to 8 ports may suffice. For larger networks, such as in medium to large offices or enterprise environments, switches with 24 to 48 ports or more are more appropriate. Consider the number of devices you need to connect now and in the future to choose the right port count.
SpeedThe speed of an Ethernet switch indicates how fast data can be transferred between connected devices. Common speeds include Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps), Gigabit Ethernet (1 Gbps), and 10 Gigabit Ethernet (10 Gbps). The speed you need depends on the type of data traffic and the performance requirements of your network. For basic internet browsing and file sharing, Fast Ethernet may be sufficient. For more demanding applications like video streaming, online gaming, or large file transfers, Gigabit Ethernet is recommended. For very high-performance needs, such as data centers or high-traffic networks, 10 Gigabit Ethernet may be necessary.
Managed vs. UnmanagedEthernet switches can be either managed or unmanaged. Unmanaged switches are simple plug-and-play devices with no configuration options, suitable for basic networking needs. Managed switches offer advanced features like VLANs, QoS, and network monitoring, allowing for greater control and optimization of the network. If you need a straightforward solution for a small network, an unmanaged switch may be sufficient. However, for larger or more complex networks where you need to prioritize traffic, segment the network, or monitor performance, a managed switch is the better choice.
Power over Ethernet (PoE)Power over Ethernet (PoE) allows the switch to deliver power to connected devices, such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points, through the Ethernet cables. This is important for reducing the need for separate power supplies and simplifying installation. PoE switches come in different power levels, such as PoE (15.4W per port), PoE+ (30W per port), and PoE++ (60W or 100W per port). If you have devices that require power through the Ethernet cable, choose a switch with the appropriate PoE standard to meet their power needs.
Switching CapacitySwitching capacity, also known as bandwidth or backplane capacity, refers to the total amount of data the switch can handle at any given time. This is important for ensuring that the switch can manage all the data traffic without bottlenecks. Switching capacity is usually measured in Gbps and should be higher than the total combined speed of all ports. For example, a 24-port Gigabit switch should have a switching capacity of at least 48 Gbps. Consider the total data throughput of your network to choose a switch with adequate switching capacity.
Form FactorThe form factor of an Ethernet switch refers to its physical size and shape, which is important for installation and space considerations. Switches come in desktop, rack-mounted, and wall-mounted form factors. Desktop switches are compact and suitable for small networks with limited space. Rack-mounted switches are designed for installation in standard 19-inch racks, making them ideal for larger networks and data centers. Wall-mounted switches can be mounted on walls or other surfaces, providing flexibility in placement. Choose a form factor that fits your available space and installation preferences.

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