Modern life has made smart houses the new standard. An innovative home network with a slew of Internet of Things (IoT) devices is on everyone’s wish list.
Some of the components that make up the smart home network include routers, IP camera systems, light fixtures, and air conditioners. But not all of them have to be used at the same time.
When it comes to networking, Ethernet switches are the key players. Smart home networks usually use one of two sorts of Ethernet switches: the unmanaged or the managed variety. But. the experts prefer managed switches.
Well, why do people like managed switches more?
Do I need a managed network switch for my home?
Yes, Ethernet switches come in different forms, including managed switches. This lets the user keep an eye on, control, and set up the transmission through a network.
As a result, these switches can perform a wide range of operations like ARP inspection and VLANs, QoS, and IP routing. Managed Ethernet switches can control data transfer and network traffic, unlike unmanaged switches.
Because of the high-tech monitoring. You may ensure that only designated network devices receive source-sent data. This makes it easier to control which devices are running and which ones are not.
When compared to an unmanaged switch, managed switches give you better network control. In addition, you have complete control over the configuration of your ports.
A number of other factors come into play when it comes to a network’s overall performance: how quickly data moves across a network as well as who has access to it. Switches are available with up to 48 ports.
The gigabit Internet standard is best supported by managed switches (variant IEEE 802.3ab). It’s still set up as a model of excellence. It supports an unlimited number of devices and users, making it an essential component of controlled PoE switches.
Your budget, network speed, power, security, and configuration requirements should be considered. Before making a decision on whether to use a managed or unmanaged PoE device.
A managed switch is more efficient than an unmanaged switch as a general rule of thumb. Also, managed switches are more costly and require monitoring.
Read: Do Network Switches Cut Down on Bandwidth?
Pros and Cons of a Managed Network switch in Home
In the next section, we’ll talk about how managed network switches can help in the management of smart home networks. Managed switches in smart home networks provide these pros and cons:
Pros
- Several Internet of Things (IoT) devices can be integrated into a smart home network using managed network switches. Its offers without compromising the network’s or devices’ performance.
- The managed switches provide the user with command and control over the devices. For example, modern technologies such as voice controls are now available. It is possible to only turn on various appliances and electronics when they are actually needed with the help of managed switches. This helps save energy and enhance IoT devices at home.
- Managed switches support LACP for network load distribution. When there is a lot of traffic on the network, the LACP feature makes it possible to add bandwidth by combining connectivity.
- Cyberattacks from the outside can happen to smart home networks. The ACL function of the managed switches protects against cyber intruders. ACL prevents illegal access to smart home networks, which safeguards data and operations.
- A VLAN feature is also available on managed switches. As a result, network traffic is more evenly distributed. There will be no issues with traffic congestion or distribution even if all units are on at the same time.
- When there is a lot of traffic or a technical problem. The Ethernet network is sensitive to sudden failure. When this is the case, spanning tree protocols are available on managed Ethernet switches (STP). This provides path redundancy, hence reducing network downtime. If a link fails or the network suddenly stops working. STP gives managed switches an extra way to send traffic so that smart home networks don’t have to wait.
Cons
- Managed switches are a little bit pricey.
- It has complex configuration and setting up processes.
- Installing something will take time and effort.
- You may need help from a network or IT expert.
Read: How to Prevent Lightning Damage to Network Switch?
What accessories can control by Managed Network Switch?
We’ll tell you why we think a managed switch is good for your smart home network and what accessories it can control.
You can effortlessly connect multiple IoT devices without compromising performance if you have a smart home.
You can control how devices work with a managed switch. Controlling the temperature of your home and the operation of appliances, lighting, computers, and other electronic devices are all made possible through the use of managed switches.
It is possible to use LACP on a managed switch. During times when a lot of people are using your network. This protocol distributes data burden effectively using an integrated vital connection.
It is also capable of managing a smart home that includes a variety of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, including motion sensors, cameras, and more.
A cyber-attack on any smart home is a threat to all of them. Managed switches’ ACL functionality protects against hackers. Which blocks illegal access, safeguarding your home network.
Managed switches have a feature called “VLAN,” which helps split up network traffic. Even if all of your devices are on simultaneously, traffic won’t slow down.
Read: What is the energy consumption of a network switch?
Is Managed Network Switch Expensive to Setup?
Because of the increased amount of complexity and control they have. Most of the time, managed switches cost more than unmanaged switches. The price rises as the number of ports and other features increases.
But because there are so many models and brands to choose from. You don’t have to worry about paying too much for features and functions you don’t require. When it comes to price, it’s pretty easy to compare the two.
Most unmanaged switches cost anywhere from $50 to $100 or more. The cost of a switch might vary greatly depending on the number of ports you require.
But, if you choose managed switches, you should be prepared to pay much more. These can cost from $500 to $3,000.
The variety of features available mainly influences prices here. You’re paying for additional features like security and access restrictions and the switch’s setup options.
Read: How Should a Network Switch Be Used With a Router?
Final Thoughts
Managed Network switches are used in many home network setups. If you want to use a cabled connection for your local network setup, this is the way to go.
We recommend that you do some research into the best network switch. The number of ports you’ll need is usually the first thing you need to think about.
Is it possible you’ll need a lot more in the coming years? You should always buy a switch that has more ports than you think you will use.
You may also need to think about the speed of each port on the network switch. Despite its attractive features, a switch with many gigabit Ethernet ports is expensive. Single or two-gigabit uplink ports on a switch are good investments.
If you’re in need of a higher speed internet connection. Home networks usually just need a few fast Ethernet ports. IoT devices, sensors, cameras, and other IoT gadgets are essential if you want to design a smart home.
Then you need a managed switch with Power over Ethernet (PoE) support. If you’re looking to build a modest network on a tight budget, a simple switch can be sufficient.
