Network - switch

How to choose the right network switch

A network switch, sometimes called a Gigabit switch or Ethernet switch, is used to distribute a wired network connection to several devices. It is the obvious choice when your router only has a few LAN ports, but you want to connect more equipment by cable for higher stability and speed than wireless can provide.

For home and small office use, a compact 5 port switch or 8 port switch is usually the best option. This allows you to connect, for example, a desktop PC, laptop, smart TV, game console, printer and perhaps a NAS or access point. If you need more connections later, you can simply add another network switch.

Gigabit speed for streaming, gaming and file sharing

All network switches in this category support Gigabit speeds up to 1000 Mbps per port. This gives you plenty of bandwidth for modern internet connections, high quality video streaming, online gaming and fast file transfers in a home or small office network. In practice, a Gigabit network switch makes sure the switch is rarely the bottleneck in your wired network.

Plug and play and silent operation

These small network switches are typically unmanaged, which means there is no complex configuration. They offer true plug and play installation, so you simply connect your Ethernet cables and the switch automatically detects the devices and negotiates the correct speed. This makes them very easy to use, even if you are not a network specialist.

Most models are also fanless, so they operate completely silently. This is a big advantage if your network switch is placed in a living room, office or bedroom where extra noise is not welcome.

Energy efficient switches for everyday use

Many of our compact 5 port and 8 port Gigabit switches use energy saving technologies such as Green Ethernet. Power consumption is automatically reduced when ports are idle or load is low, helping to save energy without affecting performance. This is good for both your electricity bill and the environment.

Why choose a wired network solution

Wireless networks are convenient, but there are many situations where a wired connection through a network switch is the better choice. For gaming, streaming, video calls and large file transfers, a wired connection usually delivers a more stable and predictable result with lower latency and fewer interruptions. A small Gigabit network switch is therefore a simple upgrade if you want to get the most out of your internet connection.

Whether you are building a home network from scratch or just need a few extra LAN ports behind your TV or on your desk, you can find a suitable network switch in this category. Choose the number of ports and form factor that match your setup and enjoy a faster, more stable and flexible wired network.