The Ethernet switch — or network switch — is the central piece of any business network: it connects computers, servers, printers, IP phones, and cameras. But with the number of ports, speed, PoE, managed mode, and brands, how do you choose the right model? This comprehensive guide covers all the criteria to help you choose the right network switch — both new and tested used.
What is an Ethernet switch (network switch)?
An Ethernet switch is a device that connects multiple devices within a local area network (LAN) and intelligently directs traffic to the correct recipient based on MAC addresses. “Switch” and “commutator” mean exactly the same thing. Unlike a router, which connects different networks, a switch serves a single network (for the difference, see our router or switch guide).
How many ports: 8, 24, or 48?
The number of ports determines how many devices you can connect:
- 8-port switch: small office, home use, or occasional extension.
- 24-port switch: the most common size for SMEs.
- 48-port switch: large installations, server rooms, entire floors.
Tip: always allow some margin for future equipment, and check for uplink ports to connect the switch to the rest of the network.
What speed: Fast Ethernet, Gigabit, or 10G?
Port speed is crucial:
- Fast Ethernet (10/100 Mbps): outdated, avoid for current use.
- Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbps): the current standard, suitable for almost all needs.
- 10G (10 Gbps): for uplinks, core network, and servers, often via SFP+ ports.
For a high-performance and future-proof network, Gigabit is the minimum, ideally with 10G uplinks.
Managed, smart, or unmanaged?
An unmanaged switch works without configuration (plug-and-play). A managed switch (administrable) provides access to VLANs, QoS, link aggregation, and monitoring — essential when segmenting or prioritizing traffic. Details in our managed or unmanaged switch guide, and for segmentation, our VLAN guide.
PoE and PoE+: powering through the network cable
A PoE (or PoE+) switch powers IP cameras, Wi-Fi access points, and IP phones directly via the Ethernet cable — no nearby power outlet needed. Convenient and cost-effective to install: everything explained in our PoE and PoE+ guide.
SFP and SFP+ ports: switching to fiber
For fiber connections and long distances, SFP (1G) or SFP+ (10G) ports are used to host transceiver modules. Many 24-port switches offer SFP ports in addition to RJ45 ports. See our SFP modules and the SFP, SFP+, and QSFP guide.
Which switch brands to choose?
The most requested professional brands:
- Cisco: essential, especially the Catalyst range (the Cisco 2960 remains a benchmark, as do the 3750). See our Cisco switches.
- HPE / Aruba (ProCurve): robust and reliable, often originally lifetime guaranteed. See our HP / HPE / Aruba switches.
- Dell (PowerConnect / N-Series): good value for money in Dell environments.
Used switches: a great deal
A professional switch is designed to run continuously for years: tested used models offer the same performance as new ones for 50 to 80% less. It’s an opportunity to get high-end Cisco or HPE gear at the price of a low-end new model. Each switch is inspected, tested, and guaranteed. Browse our catalog of used network switches.
How to choose: summary
- Ports: 8 / 24 / 48 depending on the number of devices (+ margin).
- Speed: Gigabit minimum, 10G for uplinks.
- Managed or not: managed if you need VLANs, QoS, or monitoring.
- PoE: if you power cameras, Wi-Fi, or IP phones.
- SFP/SFP+: for fiber and long-distance links.
- Brand: Cisco, HPE/Aruba, Dell depending on your environment.
FAQ: Ethernet switch
What is an Ethernet switch?
It’s a network switch that connects devices on a local network and directs traffic to the correct recipient. It multiplies ports and structures the internal network.
What’s the difference between a switch and a commutator?
None: they are two names for the same device, “switch” being the English term and “commutator” its French translation.
How many ports should I choose?
Count your current devices and add a margin: 8 ports for a small office, 24 ports for an SME, 48 ports for a large installation.
Gigabit or 10G?
Gigabit is enough for workstations; 10G is justified for uplinks, core network, and servers.
Do I need a managed switch?
For simple connections, no. To segment (VLAN), prioritize (QoS), or monitor, yes: a managed (administrable) switch is necessary.
In summary
Choosing the right Ethernet switch means matching the number of ports, speed, mode (managed or not), PoE, and fiber connectivity to your needs, then selecting a reliable professional brand. With tested used switches, you equip your network with high-end gear at a controlled cost.