Introduction:
In today’s connected world, businesses, homes, and smart infrastructure rely on a strong and reliable network. Whether it’s powering CCTV cameras, enabling smooth VoIP calls, or keeping Wi-Fi access points active, one device plays a crucial role in making this possible – the PoE Switch.
Power over Ethernet (PoE) has transformed the way we connect devices. Instead of running separate cables for power and data, PoE technology allows a single Ethernet cable to deliver both. This reduces cabling costs, simplifies installation, and makes network expansion much more flexible.
In this detailed guide, we will explore what a PoE network switch is, its types, how to choose the right one, and why AE Connect’s range of Unmanaged PoE Switches and Managed PoE Switches are among the best for seamless networking.
What is a PoE Switch?
A PoE Switch (Power over Ethernet switch) is a network device that not only transmits data but also delivers electrical power to connected devices through the same Ethernet cable. This means devices such as IP cameras, wireless access points, and VoIP phones don’t need separate power adapters.
In comparison to a traditional network switch, a PoE internet switch simplifies network design by centralizing power management and reducing the amount of wiring needed.
How it works:
- The switch detects if the connected device supports PoE.
- It then sends power along with data over the Ethernet cable.
- Devices get powered instantly without additional electrical outlets.
Types of PoE Switches
When selecting a PoE switch, one of the most important factors is whether you need a Managed or Unmanaged PoE Switch.
1. Unmanaged PoE Switches
An Unmanaged PoE Switch is designed for simplicity – just plug in your devices, and it starts working immediately.
They are ideal for:
- Small networks
- Home offices
- Small CCTV setups
- Retail stores
AE Connect offers a wide range of Unmanaged PoE Switches, such as:
4 Port PoE Switches
Perfect for small setups like home offices, small shops, or limited CCTV systems.
1. AE-ECO1106FE – 4 Port Fast Ethernet Unmanaged PoE Switch
- Type: Fast Ethernet
- Ports: 4 PoE + 2 Uplink
- PoE Budget: Ideal for powering 4 IP cameras or VoIP phones.
- Features: Cost-effective, stable performance, easy setup.
- Best Use: Small retail or home surveillance.
2. AE-PSE1106GU – 4 Port Gigabit Unmanaged PoE Switch
- Type: Gigabit Ethernet
- Ports: 4 PoE + 2 Uplink
- PoE Budget: Supports high-bandwidth devices.
- Features: Faster data transfer, perfect for HD IP cameras.
- Best Use: Small office needing gigabit speed.
3. AE-PS104G-F – 4 Port Gigabit Unmanaged PoE Switch
- Type: Gigabit Ethernet
- Ports: 4 PoE + 2 Uplink
- Features: Compact design, fanless, silent operation.
- Best Use: Apartments or small shops with HD streaming.
4. AE-PS104G-FF – 4 Port Gigabit Unmanaged PoE Switch
- Type: Gigabit Ethernet
- Ports: 4 PoE + 2 Uplink
- Features: Rugged build for reliable performance.
- Best Use: Outdoor camera setups with weatherproof housing.
8 Port PoE Switches
Best for small businesses, schools, or medium-sized CCTV systems.
1. AE-PSE8002GU – 8 Port Fast Ethernet Unmanaged PoE Switch
- Type: Fast Ethernet
- Ports: 8 PoE + 2 Uplink
- Features: Stable power distribution, budget-friendly.
- Best Use: Office CCTV or small Wi-Fi networks.
2. AEIN-PS1010PRO – 8 Port Fast Ethernet Unmanaged PoE Switch
- Type: Fast Ethernet
- Ports: 8 PoE + 2 Uplink
- Features: Reliable for constant surveillance feeds.
- Best Use: Shop or clinic camera setups.
3. AE-PSE1110GU – 8 Port Gigabit Unmanaged PoE Switch
- Type: Gigabit Ethernet
- Ports: 8 PoE + 2 Uplink
- Best Use: Small business with high-speed internet needs.
4. AEIN-PS8082GU-FF Ver 2.0 – 8 Port Gigabit Unmanaged PoE Switch
- Type: Gigabit Ethernet
- Ports: 8 PoE + 2 Uplink
- Features: Enhanced version for stable, high-speed connectivity.
- Best Use: Medium retail chains or warehouses.
16 Port PoE Switches
Perfect for medium offices, schools, or larger camera installations.
1. AEIN-PS16FE2GC – 16 Port Fast Ethernet Unmanaged PoE Switch
- Type: Fast Ethernet
- Ports: 16 PoE + 2 Gigabit Uplink
- Best Use: Educational institutes or government offices.
2. AEIN-PSG1602GU-F – 16 Port Gigabit Unmanaged PoE Switch
- Type: Gigabit Ethernet
- Ports: 16 PoE + 2 Uplink
- Best Use: Large CCTV surveillance in commercial spaces.
24 Port PoE Switches
For large offices, multi-floor buildings, and heavy surveillance networks.
1. AEIN-PS24FE2GC – 24 Port Fast Ethernet Unmanaged PoE Switch
- Type: Fast Ethernet
- Ports: 24 PoE + 2 Gigabit Uplink
- Best Use: Multi-department organizations.
2. AEIN-PSG2402GU-F – 24 Port Gigabit Unmanaged PoE Switch
- Type: Gigabit Ethernet
- Ports: 24 PoE + 2 Uplink
- Best Use: Large enterprise with high bandwidth usage.
2. Managed PoE Switches
A Managed PoE Switch gives you full control over your network. You can configure settings, monitor performance, create VLANs, set Quality of Service (QoS) rules, and even troubleshoot remotely.
They are best suited for:
- Enterprises
- Campus networks
- ISPs and large-scale surveillance setups
- Smart buildings
AE Connect offers a wide range of Managed PoE Switches, such as:
8 Port Managed PoE Switch
AE-PS8082SFT-M – 8 Port Gigabit L2 Managed PoE Switch
- Type: Gigabit L2 Managed
- Ports: 8 PoE + 2 SFP Uplink
- Features: VLAN support, security features, bandwidth control.
- Best Use: Hotels, offices, and high-security areas.
24 Port Managed PoE Switches
AE-PS242SFT-M – 24 Port Gigabit L2 Managed PoE Switch
- Type: Gigabit L2 Managed
- Ports: 24 PoE + 4 SFP
- Best Use: Multi-floor corporate buildings.
AE600-24GP4TF-L3 – 24 Port Gigabit L3 Managed PoE Switch
- Type: Gigabit L3 Managed
- Ports: 24 PoE + 4 Uplink
- Features: Advanced routing, multi-network support.
- Best Use: ISPs, universities, enterprise networks.
48 Port Managed PoE Switches
AEIN-PSG484GF-M – 48 Port Gigabit L2 Managed PoE Switch
- Type: Gigabit L2 Managed
- Ports: 48 PoE + 4 SFP
- Best Use: Large-scale campus networks.
AE800-48GP410GFL3-M – 48 Port Gigabit L3 Managed PoE Switch
- Type: Gigabit L3 Managed
- Ports: 48 PoE + 10 Uplink
- Features: Designed for high-performance core networking.
- Best Use: Data centers, ISPs, smart city networks
Conclusion – Power Your Network with the Right PoE Switch
In an era where speed, efficiency, and flexibility define success, PoE Switches have become the backbone of modern networking. By combining data transfer and power delivery into a single cable, they simplify installation, reduce costs, and make it easier to expand networks without hassle.
Whether you’re running a small shop with just a few IP cameras, managing a school campus with dozens of Wi-Fi access points, or operating a large enterprise network with advanced routing needs, there’s an AE Connect PoE Switch designed for you.
With options from 4 ports to 48 ports, choices between Fast Ethernet and Gigabit, and both Unmanaged and Managed models, AE Connect ensures you get the right balance of performance, reliability, and scalability for your needs.
Now is the time to upgrade your network and experience the difference that the right PoE switch can make.
Explore AE Connect’s complete PoE Switch range today and take the first step toward smarter, more connected networking.