When looking for Ethernet Switches solutions, consider various features that ensure optimal performance and compatibility. Important features include:
Port capacity and speed
Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability
Network management options
Quality of Service (QoS)
Scalability
Port capacity and speed are crucial as they determine the switch’s ability to handle data traffic efficiently. High data throughput is essential for maintaining high-performance networks. Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability supports devices by delivering power directly through Ethernet cables, which reduces the need for additional power sources. Network management options are vital for monitoring, configuring, and managing the network effectively. Features like SNMP, CLI, and web-based management allow administrators to control the network environment.
Quality of Service (QoS) ensures prioritization of critical network traffic, which is essential for applications that require minimal latency. Scalability is also important; the ability to expand the network by adding more switches ensures future growth accommodation without needing a complete system overhaul. For businesses with extensive networking needs, investing in switches with advanced security features is imperative. These measures protect data against unauthorized access and potential threats.
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System & Network Engineer at a tech services company with 1,001-5,000 employees
Real User
Jul 13, 2017
I would say a mix between performance, stability, managebility, functionality, flexibility, compatibility and price.
I'm all into SDN, automation and integration.
We avoid proprietary protocols and try to achieve vendor independency.
Also: know the vendor's architecture & vision.
IT Security Engineer at a financial services firm with 501-1,000 employees
Real User
Aug 25, 2015
I really enjoy the Meraki's approach to switch administration and I think all future switches (managed locally on primes or via the cloud) should provide administrators more visibility and ease of administration.
Head of computer network and telecommunications division at a financial services firm
Real User
May 12, 2015
There is no one uber criteria for all types of switches. It always depends..
Campus access switches require PoE and stack capabilities. DC access switches have to be superfast and reliable. Core/Disrribution/Spine and DCI role switches are to support extended L3 and MPLS functionalty and so on.
Nevertheless in a new era of SDN where automation and orchestration paradigms come to play all ongoing switches have to have some sort of open API. Besides that an interoperability is a key factor as well. So open standarts is my another main criteria.
Associate Director - University Technology Infrastructure (UTI) with 1,001-5,000 employees
Vendor
Mar 30, 2015
My most important criteria in Ethernet Switches would be compatibility of needed functions (hardware and software used) and other products, throughput, reliability, and the accountability of the product to be functioning for 7-10 years (the next renovation/purchase cycle) with-holding the ability to comply with the emerging technologies. Also the company's support (manufacturer and supplier) will also be crucial...
Sr. Voice Engineer at a retailer with 501-1,000 employees
Real User
Mar 16, 2015
PoE capacity to port ratio comes first. And of course the uplink bandwidth capacity. I don't look at anything other than Cisco. They are #1 for a reason, and it is my personal experience that I can place a Cisco switch, configure it, and forget it. They just work.
I look for proven reliability i.e., Cisco. There's a reason they are the go-to industry standard for switching. As far as features, I look for Gigabit Ethernet ports all around, PoE, and Stack-wise capability in order to future-proof my purchases for as long as possible.
Depending on what your requirements are my opinion is throughput and functionality. Management is another consideration as it won't do you any good if you can't manage the switches purchased. As far as POE is concerned look at the wattage and make sure your devices are going to have the power needed. The rest of the lights, bells and whistles are up to you.
Ethernet Switches are essential for building reliable and scalable network infrastructure, allowing seamless connectivity and efficient data management within businesses. They help manage network traffic, connecting multiple devices to form a local area network. Ethernet Switches play a crucial role in enhancing network performance by ensuring rapid data transfers and reduced latency. These devices come in varying port densities and capabilities to meet diverse enterprise needs, from small...
When looking for Ethernet Switches solutions, consider various features that ensure optimal performance and compatibility. Important features include:
Port capacity and speed are crucial as they determine the switch’s ability to handle data traffic efficiently. High data throughput is essential for maintaining high-performance networks. Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability supports devices by delivering power directly through Ethernet cables, which reduces the need for additional power sources. Network management options are vital for monitoring, configuring, and managing the network effectively. Features like SNMP, CLI, and web-based management allow administrators to control the network environment.
Quality of Service (QoS) ensures prioritization of critical network traffic, which is essential for applications that require minimal latency. Scalability is also important; the ability to expand the network by adding more switches ensures future growth accommodation without needing a complete system overhaul. For businesses with extensive networking needs, investing in switches with advanced security features is imperative. These measures protect data against unauthorized access and potential threats.
Stability, performance, price.
I would say a mix between performance, stability, managebility, functionality, flexibility, compatibility and price.
I'm all into SDN, automation and integration.
We avoid proprietary protocols and try to achieve vendor independency.
Also: know the vendor's architecture & vision.
ARCHITECTURE AND PERFORMANCE
I really enjoy the Meraki's approach to switch administration and I think all future switches (managed locally on primes or via the cloud) should provide administrators more visibility and ease of administration.
For me there are several: Is the switch L3, does it have CLI or some management, and I think I would prefer a CISCO with gigabit connectivity.
There are several variables to verify, but one of them is that the switch have to be manageability and VLAN compatible.
Relatively new to Distributed systems but it has to be rock solid, easy to use and maintain.
There is no one uber criteria for all types of switches. It always depends..
Campus access switches require PoE and stack capabilities. DC access switches have to be superfast and reliable. Core/Disrribution/Spine and DCI role switches are to support extended L3 and MPLS functionalty and so on.
Nevertheless in a new era of SDN where automation and orchestration paradigms come to play all ongoing switches have to have some sort of open API. Besides that an interoperability is a key factor as well. So open standarts is my another main criteria.
I don't think there is only one important criteria, it should be a balance of price, performance, features, manageability and support.
My most important criteria in Ethernet Switches would be compatibility of needed functions (hardware and software used) and other products, throughput, reliability, and the accountability of the product to be functioning for 7-10 years (the next renovation/purchase cycle) with-holding the ability to comply with the emerging technologies. Also the company's support (manufacturer and supplier) will also be crucial...
PoE capacity to port ratio comes first. And of course the uplink bandwidth capacity. I don't look at anything other than Cisco. They are #1 for a reason, and it is my personal experience that I can place a Cisco switch, configure it, and forget it. They just work.
Number of ports, PoE, processing, and look for a product with good reviews and customer service~
I look for proven reliability i.e., Cisco. There's a reason they are the go-to industry standard for switching. As far as features, I look for Gigabit Ethernet ports all around, PoE, and Stack-wise capability in order to future-proof my purchases for as long as possible.
Depending on what your requirements are my opinion is throughput and functionality. Management is another consideration as it won't do you any good if you can't manage the switches purchased. As far as POE is concerned look at the wattage and make sure your devices are going to have the power needed. The rest of the lights, bells and whistles are up to you.