A Beginner’s Guide on PoE Switches, Their Need, and Uses
The demand for cost-effective and better network access has increased multiple times as more and more businesses are shifting to digital platforms and relying on the IT infrastructure. Consequently, the installation of PoE switches is also becoming more common and desirable. If you are new to the PoE switch and want to know about what it is, why it is used, and how to use it, this guide can help you learn it all in detail. So, without any delay, let’s dive into the world of Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) switches.
What is a PoE Switch?
A Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch is just like any other network switch used in your network with the only difference being that it is based on the PoE technology and supports PoE network cables that also supply electrical power along with the data signals to the network devices.
It implies that once connected with different network devices, a PoE switch can support both the power and data transmission over one Ethernet cable simultaneously. Thus, the use of the PoE switch results in a highly simplified cabling process and extremely cost-effective network cost.
Like other network switches, PoE switches can also be classified into unmanaged and managed switches.
What is the need for PoE Switches?
A PoE switch is essential for establishing a network connection if there are no traditional power outlets to supply power. If you are not using a PoE switch, then you will need an additional electrical cable and a device called a PoE injector or splitter along with a normal switch.
So, if you want to cut the cost of network connection and simplify the network by eliminating the use of separate power and data cables, you need to get PoE switches for your business network infrastructure.
The implementation of PoE switches is also encouraged as it offers a variety of advantages, including:
- Higher Flexibility
Since the PoE switches supply power over Ethernet cables and don’t require the use of additional electrical wiring, it provides you with higher flexibility in the installation and modification process. You can install the equipment wherever you find it more suitable.
- A Well-Managed Environment
For medium and large organizations, it’s common to have hundreds and thousands of devices to connect with the network and other devices. Imagine how many cables you will need to establish the network connection. Now, double the number as you will also be using electrical wires to supply power to each of those devices.
Using a double cabling system can make the entire data center or your workplace look messy and unkempt. With the use of PoE switches and PoE cables, you can better manage the cables and make the place look tidy and well-managed.
- Higher Reliability
The power over Ethernet is usually sourced from a central and compatible Ethernet switch or an additional PoE power source instead of distributed wall adapters and sockets. Plus, it can be supported by an uninterrupted power supply. Thus, with minimized power fluctuations, the use of a PoE switch makes the entire network more reliable.
- Reduced Costs
When implementing PoE switch technology, you don’t need to buy electrical wires, outlets, and PoE injectors along with data cables. Since you are saving on power outlets, electrical wires, and PoE injectors with the use of PoE switches, it makes the complete network installation process more cost-effective.
What’s more, a PoE switch can automatically detect the power consumption requirements of other PoE-powered devices connected to it, and hence, supply only the required amount of power. So, it also saves money on power consumption and makes the entire infrastructure more resilient.
- Better Adaptability
As PoE switches and other devices powered by PoE don’t need power outlets, they can be easily moved to different locations. Plus, this flexibility also allows devices to be placed in places that are hard to reach or that are far from a power source.
- Future-Proof Solution
When you invest in systems that are going to be obsolete in the coming years, you will be spending again a significant amount on replacing those systems in the near future. Since IoT space is going to be more prevalent, implementing PoE switches in your network infrastructure is a smart decision. It will help you ensure that your network will be able to support the increasing number of devices that are optimized for this technology.
How Can We Use PoE Switches? Which devices can be connected to PoE Switches?
Wondering which devices can be connected with PoE switches? Let’s find out how you can use PoE switches in the real world.
- VoIP Phones
Advanced models of VoIP Phones are the most common application of PoE technology. They can be simply powered by an Ethernet connection and don’t require any additional power source. If you have a PoE switch and a good internet speed, you can use your VoIP phones anywhere in the world.
- IP Cameras
By using one PoE switch, you can connect various IP cameras and need only one PoE cable that runs toward the NVR. Some NVRs that are specifically designed for PoE switches don’t need you to connect your cameras to the main network through the router as they come with some router functions built-in.
- Wireless Access Points (WAP)
You can also connect WAP with your PoE switch to provide data and power at the same time. This combination makes the installation of controllers and access points very easy and hence, is considered the most preferred way to design an enterprise wireless network.
Apart from these devices, you can also power other devices by using PoE switches, such as:
- IP Intercoms
- ATMs
- Security card readers
- PoE lighting
- Door access systems
- Digital signage displays
- LCD TVs, monitors, laptops, and more
To conclude, PoE switches are crucial network equipment with amazing benefits and going to play a much bigger role in the future as well in making business, work, and life simpler, more economical, and easier.
For any queries related to network switches of any type, please feel free to connect with us via WhatsApp (+971585811786).