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High-performance ethernet and converged networking switches
Get on-demand scalability and flexible port mapping for dynamic configuration of active ports in these industry-standard ports, which offer simple interoperability with existing networks.
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Whether you're connecting devices at home or at your business, you'll want a fast, dependable network that supports all of your devices and needs. While some people simply turn to routers and hubs, an ethernet switch can bolster your network with high transfer speeds, optimized performance and robust security.
Let's explore how ethernet switches can support your network, along with the best types of switches to consider.
An ethernet switch connects various devices within the same local area network (LAN), such as computers, phones, servers, printers, cameras and routers. Beyond connecting them to the internet, ethernet switches enable devices to connect and communicate with each other.
This way, every device can access the same files, various types of storage and updates without requiring you to set up several individual direct connections. For instance, video editing teams can all work from the server's large video files without needing to use up each computer's limited storage. Likewise, every computer in an office will be able to print to the same printer without any manual connections.
Ethernet switches are the backbone and nervous system of your LAN, weaving every device together in an interconnected system. Choosing the right ethernet switches and knowing how to use them optimally can boost your network's performance, scalability and transfer capabilities.
The four most significant benefits of ethernet switches include:
Let's explore each of these more fully.
Ethernet switches can raise your network speeds and performance by reducing congestion and enabling full-duplex communication. For instance, while standard hubs essentially broadcast data to every connected device, ethernet switches only transfer the information to the relevant devices. This reduces the amount of information sent back and forth, contributing to significantly faster transfer rates. Additionally, full-duplex communication lets devices send and receive data simultaneously for speedy operations.
These network switches also use an auto-negotiation process that automatically identifies the highest possible transfer speeds between the switch and the device. For instance, the switch processes which devices currently support Gigabit and Fast ethernet switches and meets those speeds appropriately. This way, data moves as quickly as it can at any given moment.
Ethernet setups are typically more scalable than hubs and other types of networks, letting you easily add new devices to your network over time. Ports, modular designs and other solutions let you continuously scale your ethernet setup without completely starting fresh.
However, the scalability of your ethernet switch may have some limitations, depending on several key factors. For example, an inadequate router or a poor connection setup could slow down your ethernet network speeds as you add more devices, requiring you to upgrade your internet connection, as well. Still, most limitations are caused by external factors, which are often easily managed.
As described earlier, ethernet switches reduce congestion by only sending data packets to relevant devices rather than broadcasting data across the entire network. They do this by identifying each device's Media Access Control (MAC) address. This boosts speeds and contributes to more reliable transmissions, avoiding the risk of interruptions, collisions or corrupted files.
Depending on which types of network switches you use, you may even be able to prioritize certain types of data during transfers. Many ethernet switches feature Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities that push critical data streams between communication channels before other types of data. This contributes to faster speeds, dependable transfers and performance-focused network connectivity. For example, your QoS settings could prioritize video traffic, whether you're presenting demos at work or playing video games in a full house.
All ethernet devices generally follow the same set of technical standards — specifically, "Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.3-2022." Even if some devices use standards from previous years, this standardized setup makes ethernet switches compatible with most other devices and connection types. This makes it easier to scale your network without limiting the types of devices you can add.
Additionally, since you won't need adapters or software to manage connections, scaling your ethernet setup is actually quite cost-effective. This way, if you already have equipment from another brand, you can still upgrade your LAN accordingly.
While all ethernet switches are network switches, not all network switches use ethernet connections. Understanding the different types of networking switches lets you plan the best connection setup for your devices and mission-critical goals. of course, if you're laying out a local area network, make sure the switch you choose has ethernet capabilities.
The top types of ethernet switches include:
Learn more about each type of network switch in the following sections.
Converged switches are specialized ethernet devices that can manage various types of network connections. Beyond typical ethernet data, converged switches can also transfer voice, video, storage and other types of data within the same network infrastructure.
They achieve this using Converged Network Adapters that support high speeds between various connection types and protocols. This advanced approach saves you the hassle of setting up multiple switches, networks or physical wires when working with various device types while still minimizing network congestion.
Managed ethernet switches feature a handful of capabilities that unmanaged switches don't have, including:
Unmanaged switches have significantly fewer features and capabilities than "managed" ethernet options. While you'll have less control and flexibility over your LAN, unmanaged switches are often easier to work with. They use basic plug-and-play connections with basic traffic and device settings, letting you connect to new devices in just a few minutes. While they may not be suitable for large operations, such as organizations with dozens of in-house employees, unmanaged switches may be perfectly appropriate for small businesses and homes.
Smart switches fall somewhere between managed and unmanaged switches, depending on the options you choose. Many let you take advantage of VLANs, SNMPs and QoS capabilities while offering remote management and easy monitoring. However, "smart switches" is a rather broad term that doesn't always cover ethernet capabilities. So, put in your due diligence when considering smart switches over other types of network switches.
While it may not be your first priority, you must consider how you'll power equipment when investing in new devices, especially if your space has limited outlets. Power over ethernet switches transfer both data and electrical power to devices, letting you power access points, cameras, phones and other devices without any extra cords.
LAN switches are relatively standard network switches that use MAC addresses and a layered approach to reduce congestion and boost transfer speeds. Some LAN ethernet switches even support VLANs and other capabilities typically found only in managed switches.
Modular, or "chassis," switches support scalability more than most other ethernet options. They use an advanced central structure called a chassis that can manage multiple field-replaceable modules. This lets the switch support more types of devices and activities in your network, whether you're setting up building-wide security or equipment with unique needs. Plus, you can change or add modules over time as your network evolves.
Fixed configuration switches have a strict number of ports and features that you won't be able to expand, whereas modular switches let you choose between various modules and capabilities. So, if you end up using every port with a fixed configuration device, you'll need to invest in a new switch before adding any more devices. While this significantly limits scalability, fixed configuration switches are generally more affordable than modular switches and ideal for small-scale networks, such as homes.
Ethernet switches connect multiple devices into a single network, while routers connect networks and switches to one another, often establishing an even larger network. For instance, a router connects your local area network to the internet, which then lets you connect to other networks around the world.
So, a distributed business could use a router to connect each location's switch-based networks to one another. Alternatively, a massive, multi-floor organization could give each department or floor its own switch and connect those networks using multiple interconnected routers.
Hubs act similarly to ethernet switches but with significantly less advanced capabilities. For instance, switches transfer data directly to relevant devices using MAC addresses. Meanwhile, hubs simply broadcast data to all connected devices, contributing to network congestion and slower speeds.
Additionally, hubs only use half-duplex communication, meaning only one device can transfer data at a time. On the other hand, switches use full-duplex communication. Hubs also have limited scalability, security and reliability compared to advanced network switches.
The best ethernet switch for your home or enterprise depends on multiple factors, including the number of devices, the type of data you're working with and your future network goals. Consider scalable switches, such as modular and managed switches, to avoid limiting your network later on.
Explore Lenovo's assortment of ethernet switches to find a perfect fit for your network.