What Does a Network Switch Do and Do You Need One?
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The Problem: Not Enough Ethernet Ports
Your router may have only a few wired network ports, but you want to connect a desktop, TV, game console, and other devices by cable. A network switch can add more wired connections in one place, using a cable back to your router.
What a Switch Does
A network switch connects multiple wired devices on the same local network. You connect one port on the switch to a LAN port on your router, then connect your devices to the other ports. The router still handles your internet connection and typically provides Wi-Fi; a basic switch does not replace the router or create a wireless network.
Do You Need One?
You probably do if you have more wired devices than available router LAN ports, or several devices sit together and you want to run one cable from that area back to the router.
You may not need one if your router has enough available ports, your devices use Wi-Fi, or the extra ports would be in a room where you do not need wired connections.
Unmanaged vs. Managed
An unmanaged switch is the plug-and-play choice for most homes. Connect it to power and the router, then plug in your devices.
A managed switch offers settings for more advanced networks, such as separating traffic or monitoring ports. It takes configuration and is usually unnecessary for a basic home setup. Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) is a separate feature to check if you need the switch to power compatible cameras, access points, or other devices.
What to Check Before Buying
- Port count: Count the devices you plan to wire and leave a spare or two if useful.
- Speed: Gigabit is a practical match for many home wired devices. Faster ports only help when the devices and the rest of the network can use them.
- PoE: Choose a PoE model only if you need to power compatible devices over Ethernet.
- Placement: Check whether the switch is designed for a desktop or rack and allow room for power and cables.
- Connection to the router: Plan one Ethernet cable from the switch to a router LAN port. Do not connect the switch back to itself.
Gadget Zone Picks
- For a small wired setup: MT-VIKI 5 Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch, Unmanaged Network Switch Splitter.
- More ports for a home network: Tenda 8 Port Gigabit Switch, Unmanaged Network Switch, Ethernet Switch.
- For compatible 10G equipment: 5 Port 10G Ethernet Switch, 10Gbe Network Switch. Check that your router and connected devices support the speed before paying for 10G.
Pros & Cons
Pros
👍 Adds wired ports without replacing the router
👍 Useful when multiple devices are close together
👎 Adds another power adapter and cable to manage
👎 Does not increase the speed of your internet plan or slower connected equipment
GZ Verdict
If your router has enough open LAN ports, you can skip the switch. If you need more wired connections, a simple unmanaged gigabit model is usually the sensible home choice. Count ports first, then match the speed and any PoE needs to the devices you actually own.