Business owners in this modern world need countless devices, systems, and applications to provide products and services to the public. Entrepreneurs like you will need to learn to embrace technology and its processes and products if you want your humble brand to succeed. You will need to understand how modern marvels like a sensor cable, proximity sensor, or managed switch can help you and your team address customer needs.
Ethernet switches are one of the many devices you could use to help your company effortlessly operate. These hardware products will also allow you to use other products of innovation that can automate some of your and your team’s tasks quickly and accurately. But what are ethernet switches, and what are the differences between their two types—the managed and unmanaged switch?
What Is An Ethernet Switch?
Understanding ethernet switches will be more straightforward if you know what ethernet is and how it works. According to TechTarget, an ethernet allows devices to connect to the internet through a wired local network. Instead of using the internet via a Wi-Fi network, ethernet uses a series of cables that connects multiple devices to a network source with a managed or unmanaged switch—allowing it to gain internet access.
The ethernet switch is where devices like laptops, desktop computers, or servers can connect if they need internet access. It is a rectangular apparatus with numerous square-like holes that an ethernet cable can attach to when granting an internet connection to a machine. A managed or unmanaged ethernet switch can be bulky and occupy crucial space on your facility, but using it is often better than connecting to the internet via Wi-Fi.
According to technological experts, using a managed or unmanaged ethernet switch minimises downtime and strain on host computers. Moreover, it offers more protection against cyber attacks and can improve network speed or performance. But between these two ethernet switch types, which one is ideal for your company? Find out by understanding the differences between a managed and unmanaged switch.
What Is A Managed Switch?
A managed switch is an ethernet switch that allows a person to tweak or adjust each port to a setting that suits their needs. This feature helps people have the authority to configure their network in whatever way they want to optimise their connection’s performance, reliability, and availability.
Unlike an unmanaged switch, business owners like you can set up a managed switch that can protect your network and devices from suspicious activity. It can also detect threats targeting your data or system. However, managed switches cost more than unmanaged ones due to their customisable features. If you plan on investing in these ethernet switches, prepare for their hefty price.
What Is An Unmanaged Switch?
An unmanaged switch may not have features that can fit your specific needs and preferences, but it can automatically do its job as soon as you connect it to a power source. Unlike a managed switch, unmanaged ones are plug-and-play devices that can begin forwarding traffic within seconds of operating.
If you have an uncomplicated network and have no specific security or connectivity demands, getting an unmanaged switch is ideal for your company. You can also benefit from this device if you do not have the skills or knowledge necessary for configuring these switches.
Whether you need a managed or unmanaged switch, Pepperl+Fuchs Asia can help ensure efficient and reliable network connectivity for your company. Check out their website to learn how their products can benefit your business.
