Among the most asked questions about establishing a business or home network is setting up a PoE (Power over Ethernet) switch or a Non-PoE switch. Although both ways can connect a set of devices, they are fundamentally different and come with their own unique benefits. Hence, knowing their differences will help you make a viable network investment.
What a PoE Switch Is?
Generally, a PoE switch will provide power and data over a single cable. Devices such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points can be powered without extra wiring. It reduces cable mess and, as a result, diminishes installation costs. It has the huge reliability benefit, too, in terms of having centralized power requirement solutions for certain businesses.
What is meant by a Non-PoE switch?
PoE switches supply power and data to connected devices, while Non-PoE switches send data only and do not supply electricity. That means the device connected to a Non-PoE switch must have its own power adapter. Non-PoE switches, on the whole, are less expensive and conserve energy since powering devices is not necessary. Such network switches work well in small networks where devices have their own sources of power.
Some Comparisons between PoE and Non-PoE Switches
The provision of power is the core difference. PoE switches carry both data and electricity, while Non-PoE switches carry data alone. Furthermore, PoE switches suit well IP surveillance systems, VoIP phones, and Wi-Fi access points since they eliminate the unnecessary excessive reliance on different power adapters. Generally, where price is the concern, a user would select a non-PoE switch for an uncomplicated networking operation. Hence, this decision varies according to the unique requirements of your network.
PoE Switch Benefits
PoE switches have benefits that make them attractive for businesses to use. An Ethernet cable carries both power and data to the device. The other advantage is flexibility, as the devices can be set up in areas without nearby power sources. With power centralized, monitoring becomes easy and it becomes more dependable. A PoE switch has additional access and scalability in case your organization has adopted IP devices in its operations.
Benefits of Non-PoE Switches
Non-PoE switches also become useful in some cases. They are relatively cheaper and thus affordable to small offices or home users. They will consume a little bit less energy since they do not supply power, which may result in lower long-term operating costs. Finally, they are quite easy to manage when concern for power is not there. Therefore, a Non-PoE switch may well be the best option for a network that does not require any PoE-powered devices.
Which Switch Would Most Suit Your Network?
In fact, the decision lies solely on your networking preferences. If you plan to have IP cameras, VoIP phones, or wireless access points, then surely, it is worth investing your cash in a PoE switch because it forms the basis of convenience, flexibility, and long-term scalability. Otherwise, if all you need is a low-cost means of connecting computers, printers, and servers, then a Non-PoE switch may suffice. Thus, consider your needs now and in the future before finally selecting a network switch.
