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Best Fast Ethernet Network Switches: 15 Spec-Based Picks

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A reliable fast ethernet network switch expands your wired network for basic desktop devices, access points, and surveillance cameras. We compared 15 models based on the specifications published on the listings.

The TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet Switch earns the top position because its unmanaged 5-port build delivers quiet 10/100 Mbps port expansion without configuration steps. This guide helps you decide between desktop and rackmount form factors, PoE power budgets, and dedicated Gigabit uplinks to fit your setup.

Quick picks

#ProductBest forPrice
1 TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet Switch Best overall basic desktop Fast Ethernet wired expansion Check price of TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet Switch on Amazon
2 Tenda 24-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch Best premium silent 24-port unmanaged wired expansions Check price of Tenda 24-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch on Amazon
3 Tenda 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch Also great compact desktop wired network expansion Check price of Tenda 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch on Amazon
4 TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet PoE Switch Also great small surveillance setups needing PoE support Check price of TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet PoE Switch on Amazon
5 Real HD 16-Port Fast Ethernet PoE+ Switch Also great high-power surveillance camera and access point setups Check price of Real HD 16-Port Fast Ethernet PoE+ Switch on Amazon
6 YuanLey 10-Port Fast Ethernet PoE+ Switch Also great IP camera setups needing Gigabit uplinks Check price of YuanLey 10-Port Fast Ethernet PoE+ Switch on Amazon
7 MokerLink 8-Port 2.5G Switch with 10G SFP+ Also great Mixed-speed networks needing 2.5G and 10G uplinks Check price of MokerLink 8-Port 2.5G Switch with 10G SFP+ on Amazon
8 SICSOLINK 10-Port Fast Ethernet PoE+ Switch Best budget Small surveillance setups needing silent PoE+ power Check price of SICSOLINK 10-Port Fast Ethernet PoE+ Switch on Amazon
9 VIMIN 10-Port Gigabit PoE Switch Also great powering multi-camera setups requiring dedicated uplink connections Check price of VIMIN 10-Port Gigabit PoE Switch on Amazon
10 YuanLey 8-Port 10G Ethernet Switch Also great mixing Fast Ethernet and 10G multi-gigabit devices Check price of YuanLey 8-Port 10G Ethernet Switch on Amazon
11 NICGIGA 10-Port PoE+ Switch with 2 Gigabit Uplinks Also great IP camera setups needing long-distance PoE runs Check price of NICGIGA 10-Port PoE+ Switch with 2 Gigabit Uplinks on Amazon
12 MokerLink 5-Port 10G Smart Managed Switch Best smart managed managed setups mixing multi-gigabit and legacy speeds Check price of MokerLink 5-Port 10G Smart Managed Switch on Amazon
13 D-Link 16-Port Fast Ethernet Switch Best desktop quiet multi-device desktop and rack setups Check price of D-Link 16-Port Fast Ethernet Switch on Amazon
14 Ztyuav 26-Port 400W Fast Ethernet PoE Switch Also great high-density surveillance systems needing heavy PoE power Check price of Ztyuav 26-Port 400W Fast Ethernet PoE Switch on Amazon
15 Hohtouying 19-Port PoE Fast Ethernet Switch Best ip cameras multi-camera IP surveillance setups Check price of Hohtouying 19-Port PoE Fast Ethernet Switch on Amazon

The best fit for you

Our 15 picks

Best overall

TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet Switch

Best for: basic desktop Fast Ethernet wired expansion

Port Speed
Fast Ethernet (what this guide is about)
Port Count
5
Management Type
Unmanaged
Mounting Type
Desktop
Number of Ports
5 Ports
PoE Support
PoE

View on Amazon: TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet Switch

This TP-Link unit is an unmanaged desktop network switch designed to expand your wired setup. You get five 10/100 Mbps Fast Ethernet RJ45 ports with auto-negotiation and Auto-MDI/MDIX support. Its fanless design keeps operation silent on a desk or shelf, while IEEE 802.3x flow control provides reliable data delivery. It suits you if you need basic wired ports for everyday devices.

Pros

  • Five 10/100 Mbps auto-negotiation RJ45 ports
  • Fanless design for silent desktop operation
  • Auto-MDI/MDIX eliminates crossover cable requirements
  • IEEE 802.3x flow control for reliable data transfer

Cons

  • Port speed capped at 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet rather than Gigabit
  • Unmanaged design provides no software configuration or VLAN controls

Good fit if

  • You need five compact Fast Ethernet ports for everyday networking.
  • You prefer a plug-and-play device that requires no software setup.
  • You require silent operation on a desktop.

Skip if

  • You require Gigabit speeds for high-bandwidth local file transfers.
  • You need managed switch controls like VLANs or QoS management.

Verdict: TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet Desktop Switch delivers quiet, straightforward 10/100 Mbps port expansion for basic home networking without configuration steps.

Best premium

Tenda 24-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch

Best for: silent 24-port unmanaged wired expansions

Port Speed
Gigabit, Fast Ethernet (what this guide is about)
Port Count
24
Management Type
Unmanaged
Mounting Type
Desktop, Rack Mount
Number of Ports
24 Ports
Dimensions
11.6 × 7.01 × 1.73 inches

View on Amazon: Tenda 24-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch

This Tenda unit is an unmanaged 24-port switch built for high-density wired setups. It supports 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds across all ports, accommodating Fast Ethernet devices while leaving room for Gigabit connections. The fanless metal chassis fits on a desktop or in a rack mount installation. It suits you if you need silent operation, basic plug-and-play connectivity, and enough physical ports to wire two dozen devices.

Pros

  • 24 auto-negotiating 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet ports
  • Fanless metal casing ensures silent passive cooling
  • Supports desktop or rack mount installation
  • IEEE 802.3x flow control for reliable transmission

Cons

  • Lacks Power over Ethernet (PoE) support
  • Unmanaged operation with no VLAN or traffic control settings

Good fit if

  • You need to wire up to 24 Ethernet devices to a single central switch.
  • You want a silent, fanless metal unit for a desk or rack.
  • You prefer unmanaged plug-and-play connectivity without configuration.

Skip if

  • You need Power over Ethernet to run IP cameras or access points.
  • You require managed switch capabilities like VLANs or QoS.

Verdict: Tenda 24-Port Fanless Metal Switch offers expansive 24-port capacity in a silent, rack-mountable metal chassis. It delivers straightforward unmanaged networking for setups that do not require PoE or software management.

Also great

Tenda 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch

Best for: compact desktop wired network expansion

Port Speed
Gigabit, Fast Ethernet (what this guide is about)
Port Count
5
Number of Ports
5 Ports
Dimensions
3.66 × 2.6 × 0.91 inches
Weight
3.53 ounces

View on Amazon: Tenda 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch

The Tenda 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch expands your wired network using five auto-negotiating 10/100/1000 Mbps ports. It operates silently with plug-and-play setup, requiring no configuration software. Measuring under 3.7 inches long and weighing under a quarter pound, this compact unit fits small desks. It is an effective match if you need basic Fast Ethernet or Gigabit connections for home office peripherals like laptops, printers, and gaming consoles.

Pros

  • Five auto-sensing 10/100/1000 Mbps ports
  • Compact footprint measuring 3.66 by 2.60 by 0.91 inches
  • Silent operation with fanless plug-and-play design
  • Store-and-forward mode with automatic MAC address learning

Cons

  • Provides only five total ports
  • No Power over Ethernet support listed in specifications
  • Unmanaged unit with no software configuration controls

Good fit if

  • You need a compact five-port desktop switch for everyday home devices.
  • You want auto-negotiating ports supporting both Fast Ethernet and Gigabit speeds.
  • You prefer a silent, plug-and-play hardware setup without management tools.

Skip if

  • You need PoE to power access points or security cameras.
  • You require more than five network ports for your wired gear.
  • You need managed switch features to configure local network traffic.

Verdict: Tenda 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch delivers straightforward plug-and-play connectivity with auto-negotiating speeds up to 1000 Mbps in a palm-sized footprint. It provides reliable wired expansion if you do not need PoE or network management.

Also great

TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet PoE Switch

Best for: small surveillance setups needing PoE support

Port Speed
Fast Ethernet (what this guide is about)
Port Count
5
PoE Support
PoE+ (802.3at/af)
PoE Power Budget
67W
Mounting Type
Desktop, Wall-Mount
Number of Ports
5 Ports

View on Amazon: TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet PoE Switch

This compact switch provides five 10/100 Mbps ports, four of which deliver Power over Ethernet plus. You get a combined power budget of 67W, supplying up to 30W on each active PoE port. It features an extend mode reaching up to 250 meters at reduced 10 Mbps speeds. This unit suits you if you need simple power and data distribution for hardware like surveillance cameras across your network.

Pros

  • Four 802.3at/af PoE+ ports with a 67W total power budget
  • Extend Mode supports transmission up to 250 meters at 10 Mbps
  • PoE Auto Recovery automatically detects and restarts unresponsive devices
  • Quiet fanless design in a desktop or wall-mountable metal case

Cons

  • Port speeds are limited to 10/100 Mbps Fast Ethernet
  • Provides only one non-PoE port for upstream connectivity
  • Extend Mode reduces connection speed to 10 Mbps

Good fit if

  • You need to power up to four PoE devices within a total 67W capacity.
  • You run wiring up to 250 meters for low-bandwidth devices like cameras.

Skip if

  • You need Gigabit data transfer rates for high-bandwidth devices.
  • You need more than four powered PoE ports or multiple non-PoE connections.

Verdict: TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet PoE Switch delivers up to 67W across four ports for small-scale surveillance or power-over-network setups. Its long-range extend mode and automatic rebooting handle basic 10/100 Mbps deployments reliably.

Also great

Real HD 16-Port Fast Ethernet PoE+ Switch

Best for: high-power surveillance camera and access point setups

Port Speed
Gigabit, Fast Ethernet (what this guide is about)
Port Count
16
Management Type
Unmanaged
PoE Support
PoE+ (802.3af/at)
PoE Power Budget
300W
Uplink Ports
2 Gigabit Uplink Ethernet Ports

View on Amazon: Real HD 16-Port Fast Ethernet PoE+ Switch

The Real HD 16-Port PoE Switch provides 16 Fast Ethernet ports alongside two Gigabit uplink ports for network or router connections. It delivers an overall PoE power budget of 300W with up to 30W per port using 802.3af/at standards. Built into a fanless metal housing, it operates silently on desks or walls. You get unmanaged plug-and-play setup, a port isolation VLAN switch, and a 250-meter extend mode for long-distance surveillance camera installations.

Pros

  • 300W total PoE power budget with up to 30W per port
  • Two dedicated Gigabit uplink ports
  • Fanless metal chassis for silent operation
  • Hardware switches for port VLAN and 250m extend mode

Cons

  • Downlink ports are limited to 10/100 Mbps Fast Ethernet speeds
  • Unmanaged design lacks web-based or software configuration

Good fit if

  • You need high-capacity 300W PoE power for up to 16 networked devices.
  • You want silent, fanless operation in a durable metal chassis.
  • You connect IP cameras over long distances up to 250 meters.

Skip if

  • You require Gigabit throughput on all downstream connections.
  • You need web management, SNMP monitoring, or managed switch features.

Verdict: Real HD 16-Port PoE Switch with Gigabit Uplinks offers a heavy-duty 300W power supply and dedicated Gigabit uplinks for large Fast Ethernet camera or access point arrays. It is a solid unmanaged hardware choice when high wattage matters more than gigabit local speeds.

Also great

YuanLey 10-Port Fast Ethernet PoE+ Switch

Best for: IP camera setups needing Gigabit uplinks

Port Speed
Gigabit, Fast Ethernet (what this guide is about)
Port Count
10
Management Type
Unmanaged
PoE Support
PoE+ (802.3af/at)
PoE Power Budget
120W
Uplink Ports
2 x Gigabit

View on Amazon: YuanLey 10-Port Fast Ethernet PoE+ Switch

This YuanLey switch provides eight 10/100 Mbps Fast Ethernet PoE+ ports alongside two dedicated Gigabit uplink ports. It delivers up to 120W across all PoE ports, with standard IEEE 802.3af/at support supplying up to 30W per port. An extend mode switch enables runs up to 250 meters at 10 Mbps with port isolation. This unmanaged setup suits you if you need to power network cameras or access points without bottlenecking local uplinks.

Pros

  • Eight 10/100 Mbps PoE+ ports with 120W total power budget
  • Two 1000 Mbps Gigabit uplink ports for high-bandwidth connections
  • Extend mode reaches up to 250 meters at 10 Mbps with VLAN isolation
  • Built-in power supply inside a metal casing

Cons

  • Base access ports max out at 10/100 Mbps Fast Ethernet
  • Incompatible with 24V passive PoE devices
  • Unmanaged design lacks web or software management

Good fit if

  • You need to power standard 802.3af/at PoE devices like IP cameras or access points.
  • You want Gigabit uplinks to prevent bottlenecks when connecting to your main router.
  • You require extended cable runs up to 250 meters for remote hardware.

Skip if

  • You require Gigabit or faster speeds across all connected client ports.
  • You operate 24V passive PoE equipment.
  • You need managed switch features for custom traffic control.

Verdict: YuanLey 10-Port Fast Ethernet PoE Switch delivers dependable 120W PoE+ power with dedicated Gigabit uplinks for high-bandwidth network connections. It provides an efficient, unmanaged solution for wiring IP cameras across extended distances.

Also great

MokerLink 8-Port 2.5G Switch with 10G SFP+

Best for: Mixed-speed networks needing 2.5G and 10G uplinks

Port Speed
Gigabit, 2.5G, 10G, Fast Ethernet (what this guide is about)
Port Count
8
Management Type
Unmanaged
Uplink Ports
1 x 10G SFP+
Switching Capacity
60 Gbps
Mounting Type
Desktop, Wall-Mount

View on Amazon: MokerLink 8-Port 2.5G Switch with 10G SFP+

The MokerLink 8-Port 2.5G Switch with 10G SFP+ is an unmanaged desktop and wall-mountable switch featuring eight multi-gigabit ports and one 10G SFP+ slot. It accommodates legacy Fast Ethernet devices while supporting 1G, 2.5G, and 10G connections through auto-negotiation and a 60Gbps backplane. Its fanless metal design ensures silent operation, making it suitable if you want high-throughput capability alongside older 100Mbps hardware without any manual configuration.

Pros

  • Eight 2.5G RJ45 ports with adaptive 10/100/1000M/2.5G support
  • One 10G SFP+ uplink slot compatible with 1G and 2.5G modules
  • 60Gbps backplane bandwidth for data forwarding
  • Fanless metal chassis for silent, quiet operation

Cons

  • SFP module is not included in the package
  • Lacks Power over Ethernet support
  • Unmanaged design provides no VLAN or management controls

Good fit if

  • You need backward compatibility for Fast Ethernet gear alongside 2.5G and 10G devices.
  • You want silent fanless operation in a metal desktop or wall-mount form factor.
  • You prefer unmanaged plug-and-play installation without network configuration.

Skip if

  • You require Power over Ethernet to power IP cameras or access points.
  • You need managed switch features such as port mirroring or VLAN configuration.

Verdict: MokerLink 8-Port 2.5G Switch with 10G SFP+ bridges Fast Ethernet devices with modern 2.5G and 10G hardware. It is a solid unmanaged choice if you want silent, high-bandwidth switching without setup complexity.

Best budget

SICSOLINK 10-Port Fast Ethernet PoE+ Switch

Best for: Small surveillance setups needing silent PoE+ power

Port Speed
Fast Ethernet (what this guide is about)
Port Count
10
Management Type
Unmanaged
PoE Support
PoE+ (802.3af/at)
PoE Power Budget
120 W
Uplink Ports
2 x FE Uplink

View on Amazon: SICSOLINK 10-Port Fast Ethernet PoE+ Switch

This unmanaged switch gives you ten Fast Ethernet ports, combining eight 802.3af/at PoE+ ports with two dedicated uplink ports. It supplies a 120W total power budget, delivering up to 30W per port for IP cameras or access points. An extend mode supports cable runs up to 250 meters. Encased in a fanless metal housing, it suits small surveillance networks and home setups requiring silent operation and automated device reboots.

Pros

  • 120W total PoE power budget with up to 30W per port
  • PoE watchdog automatically detects offline hardware and restarts ports
  • Extend mode supports transmission distances up to 250 meters
  • Fanless metal chassis operating from -10°C to 55°C

Cons

  • Uplink ports limited to 100Mbps Fast Ethernet speeds
  • Unmanaged architecture provides no VLAN or traffic management controls

Good fit if

  • You need to power up to eight PoE devices within a 120W power envelope.
  • You run cabling up to 250 meters for remote surveillance cameras.
  • You require fanless, silent hardware for desktop or quiet room use.

Skip if

  • You require Gigabit uplinks to connect to your central router or NVR.
  • You need managed switch settings such as port isolation or QoS.

Verdict: SICSOLINK 10-Port Fast Ethernet PoE+ Switch delivers dedicated PoE+ power and long-range connectivity for standard IP surveillance systems. Its built-in watchdog and fanless metal build provide dependable, maintenance-free operation across small networks.

Also great

VIMIN 10-Port Gigabit PoE Switch

Best for: powering multi-camera setups requiring dedicated uplink connections

Port Speed
Gigabit, Fast Ethernet (what this guide is about)
Port Count
10
Management Type
Unmanaged
PoE Support
PoE+ (IEEE 802.3af/at)
PoE Power Budget
120W
Uplink Ports
2 x Gigabit

View on Amazon: VIMIN 10-Port Gigabit PoE Switch

The VIMIN 10-Port Gigabit PoE Switch is an unmanaged desktop and wall-mountable switch designed to power network devices. You get eight PoE+ ports that support Fast Ethernet and Gigabit data rates, alongside two dedicated Gigabit uplink ports. With a 120W total power budget and up to 30W per port, this switch suits you if you need to run multiple IP cameras, access points, or VoIP hardware without separate power runs.

Pros

  • 120W total PoE budget with up to 30W per port under IEEE 802.3af/at standards
  • Eight auto-sensing 10/100/1000 Mbps PoE+ ports plus two Gigabit uplink ports
  • Hardware One-Key VLAN mode isolates ports 1 through 8 from each other
  • Extend mode supports cable runs up to 250m at 10Mbps speeds

Cons

  • Does not support passive PoE devices
  • Unmanaged design offers no web management interface or software configuration
  • Engaging extend mode throttles transmission speeds to 10Mbps

Good fit if

  • You need to power up to eight standard 802.3af/at devices within a 120W budget.
  • You want physical switch toggles for VLAN isolation and 250m range extension.
  • You require two independent Gigabit uplink ports for an NVR and router.

Skip if

  • You need passive PoE output for 24V networking equipment.
  • You require managed switch capabilities like SNMP, L2 routing, or port mirroring.

Verdict: VIMIN 10-Port Gigabit PoE Switch delivers 120W of standard 802.3af/at power across eight auto-negotiating ports with two dedicated Gigabit uplinks. It provides reliable plug-and-play connectivity with hardware VLAN isolation for straightforward camera and access point setups.

Also great

YuanLey 8-Port 10G Ethernet Switch

Best for: mixing Fast Ethernet and 10G multi-gigabit devices

Port Speed
Gigabit, 2.5G, 10G, Fast Ethernet (what this guide is about)
Port Count
8
Management Type
Unmanaged
Uplink Ports
2 x 10G SFP+
Switching Capacity
160Gbps
Mounting Type
19-inch rackmount, desktop

View on Amazon: YuanLey 8-Port 10G Ethernet Switch

If you need Fast Ethernet backward compatibility alongside multi-gigabit capabilities, this unmanaged switch provides six 10Gbps RJ45 ports and two 10G SFP+ uplink slots. Every port auto-negotiates across 100Mbps, 1Gbps, 2.5Gbps, 5Gbps, and 10Gbps tiers with a 160Gbps total switching capacity. Encased in a metal housing with a 24dB internal cooling fan, it suits you if you operate legacy 100Mbps hardware while expanding to high-bandwidth storage or servers.

Pros

  • Six RJ45 ports supporting 100Mbps up to 10Gbps speeds
  • Two 10G SFP+ ports for fiber uplinks
  • 160Gbps total switching capacity
  • Durable metal chassis with 4KV lightning protection
  • Supports both desktop and 19-inch rackmount placement

Cons

  • Active 24dB cooling fan rather than silent fanless design
  • Unmanaged switch with no VLAN or traffic management controls
  • No Power over Ethernet support listed

Good fit if

  • You need 100Mbps backward compatibility alongside high-bandwidth 10G connections.
  • You want plug-and-play setup without software configuration.
  • You require SFP+ fiber connectivity alongside standard RJ45 ports.

Skip if

  • You need a silent, completely fanless desktop switch.
  • You require Power over Ethernet to supply power to connected hardware.
  • You need managed features like VLAN tagging or port trunking.

Verdict: YuanLey 8-Port 10G Ethernet Switch delivers 100Mbps to 10Gbps multi-gigabit flexibility across eight total high-speed ports. Its 160Gbps backplane and dual SFP+ slots provide high throughput without complex configuration.

Also great

NICGIGA 10-Port PoE+ Switch with 2 Gigabit Uplinks

Best for: IP camera setups needing long-distance PoE runs

Port Speed
Gigabit, Fast Ethernet (what this guide is about)
Port Count
10
Management Type
Unmanaged
PoE Support
PoE+ (802.3af/at)
PoE Power Budget
120 W
Mounting Type
Desktop, Rackmount

View on Amazon: NICGIGA 10-Port PoE+ Switch with 2 Gigabit Uplinks

You get eight 100Mbps PoE+ ports delivering up to 120W total power, plus two dedicated Gigabit uplink ports. This unmanaged switch suits setups running multiple IP cameras, access points, or VoIP phones that need simple plug-and-play operation. It features an extend mode reaching 250 meters at 10Mbps speeds, built-in VLAN isolation across downstream ports, and a sturdy metal housing with 4KV lightning protection for desktop or rack setups.

Pros

  • 120W total PoE budget with up to 30W per port
  • Two dedicated Gigabit uplink ports alongside eight 100Mbps ports
  • Extend mode supports up to 250m transmission at 10Mbps
  • Hardware VLAN isolation between ports 1 through 8
  • Metal housing with 4KV lightning protection

Cons

  • Downstream ports capped at 100Mbps Fast Ethernet speeds
  • Unmanaged switch with no software configuration interface
  • Data rate drops to 10Mbps when extend mode is active

Good fit if

  • You need to power up to eight PoE devices with up to 120W total draw.
  • You want dedicated Gigabit uplinks to connect to your main router or NVR.
  • You require long-distance cable runs up to 250 meters for remote devices.

Skip if

  • You need Gigabit speeds across all connected local devices.
  • You require managed switch capabilities and web-based controls.

Verdict: NICGIGA 10-Port Fast Ethernet PoE+ Switch delivers dedicated Gigabit uplinks and long-distance PoE+ power for surveillance hardware without network configuration.

Best smart managed

MokerLink 5-Port 10G Smart Managed Switch

Best for: managed setups mixing multi-gigabit and legacy speeds

Port Speed
2.5G, 10G, Fast Ethernet (what this guide is about)
Port Count
5
Management Type
Web Managed
Switching Capacity
100Gbps
Number of Ports
5 Ports

View on Amazon: MokerLink 5-Port 10G Smart Managed Switch

This MokerLink unit is a 5-port smart managed network switch housed in a metal case. Every RJ45 port auto-adapts to 100Mbps Fast Ethernet alongside 1G, 2.5G, 5G, and 10G connections, backed by a 100Gbps switching capacity. Through its web management interface, you can configure VLANs, QoS, and link aggregation. It suits you if you need granular network management and backward compatibility for Fast Ethernet gear alongside high-speed multi-gigabit hardware.

Pros

  • Five auto-adapting ports supporting 100M, 1G, 2.5G, 5G, and 10G speeds
  • Web management for VLAN, QoS, LACP, and Spanning Tree controls
  • 100Gbps non-blocking switching capacity
  • Durable metal chassis with LED indicators

Cons

  • Active cooling uses an internal smart fan rather than a fanless design
  • Does not provide Power over Ethernet (PoE)
  • Offers only five total RJ45 network ports

Good fit if

  • You require L2 web management features like VLANs, QoS, and Link Aggregation.
  • You mix legacy Fast Ethernet hardware with multi-gigabit or 10G endpoints.
  • You need a compact metal switch with 100Gbps forwarding bandwidth.

Skip if

  • You need Power over Ethernet to run access points or security cameras.
  • You require a completely silent, fanless switch for a desktop setup.
  • You need more than five network ports for your local devices.

Verdict: MokerLink 5-Port 10G Smart Managed Switch brings extensive L2 network configuration options to setups mixing Fast Ethernet devices with multi-gigabit connections. Its high switching capacity and multi-rate RJ45 ports give you substantial control over network traffic.

Best desktop

D-Link 16-Port Fast Ethernet Switch

Best for: quiet multi-device desktop and rack setups

Port Speed
Fast Ethernet (what this guide is about)
Port Count
16
Management Type
Unmanaged
Mounting Type
Desktop, Rackmount
Number of Ports
16 Ports
Dimensions
11 × 4.96 × 1.73 inches

View on Amazon: D-Link 16-Port Fast Ethernet Switch

This D-Link 16-Port Fast Ethernet Switch provides sixteen 10/100 Mbps ports in a durable metal chassis designed for desktop or rackmount use. Its fanless design ensures silent operation, while plug-and-play unmanaged functionality means you do not need to configure settings. It supports full-duplex speeds up to 200 Mbps with IEEE 802.3x flow control and includes IEEE 802.3az energy efficiency, making it suitable if you need quiet, expanded local wired connectivity.

Pros

  • 16 Fast Ethernet ports (10/100 Mbps)
  • Fanless metal chassis for silent operation
  • Desktop and rack-mountable installation options
  • IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet support

Cons

  • Maximum port speeds limited to 100 Mbps rather than Gigabit
  • No Power over Ethernet support for powering connected devices
  • Unmanaged design lacks VLAN or traffic management configuration

Good fit if

  • You need sixteen wired ports for standard 10/100 Mbps network gear.
  • You want silent, fanless operation on a desk or inside an equipment rack.
  • You prefer plug-and-play hardware without software configuration.

Skip if

  • You require Gigabit or multi-gigabit speeds for heavy data transfers.
  • You need to power devices directly over Ethernet cabling.

Verdict: D-Link 16-Port Fast Ethernet Switch delivers sixteen silent, plug-and-play connections inside a solid metal enclosure for desktop or rack setups. It is an effective option when your setup prioritizes port count and basic 10/100 Mbps connectivity over Gigabit speeds.

Also great

Ztyuav 26-Port 400W Fast Ethernet PoE Switch

Best for: high-density surveillance systems needing heavy PoE power

Port Speed
Gigabit, Fast Ethernet (what this guide is about)
Port Count
26
Management Type
Unmanaged
PoE Support
PoE+
PoE Power Budget
400W
Uplink Ports
2 Gigabit UpLink Ports

View on Amazon: Ztyuav 26-Port 400W Fast Ethernet PoE Switch

This Ztyuav network switch gives you 24 Fast Ethernet PoE+ ports alongside two Gigabit uplink ports for high-capacity setups. It provides an overall 400W power budget and supports IEEE 802.3af, at, and bt standards. You can activate an Extend mode to reach powered devices up to 250 meters away at 10Mbps. Built-in fans cool the metal housing. It suits you if you need to run dozens of low-bandwidth IP cameras or VoIP gear.

Pros

  • 24 Fast Ethernet PoE+ ports with a 400W total power budget
  • Two dedicated Gigabit uplink ports prevent core bandwidth bottlenecks
  • Extend mode supports cable runs up to 250 meters at 10Mbps
  • AI Watchdog detects frozen equipment and automatically reboots ports
  • Durable metal casing supports rack, wall, or desktop mounting

Cons

  • Downstream PoE ports are limited to 10/100Mbps speeds
  • Unmanaged design provides no remote web management interface
  • Internal cooling fan operates continuously

Good fit if

  • You need to power up to 24 separate PoE surveillance cameras or phones.
  • You require a high 400W total power budget across your connected hardware.
  • You want Gigabit uplinks to carry aggregated traffic to your core router.

Skip if

  • You require Gigabit or multi-gigabit throughput on every local port.
  • You need managed switch features such as custom VLAN tagging and QoS setup.
  • You need a fanless switch for completely silent desktop use.

Verdict: Ztyuav 26-Port 400W Fast Ethernet PoE Switch delivers massive power and high port density for large camera or phone networks. It balances 10/100Mbps downstream connections with dual Gigabit uplinks to keep core traffic moving efficiently.

Best ip cameras

Hohtouying 19-Port PoE Fast Ethernet Switch

Best for: multi-camera IP surveillance setups

Port Speed
Gigabit, Fast Ethernet (what this guide is about)
Port Count
19
Management Type
Unmanaged
PoE Support
802.3af/at
PoE Power Budget
320W
Uplink Ports
2 x Gigabit, 1 x SFP

View on Amazon: Hohtouying 19-Port PoE Fast Ethernet Switch

This unmanaged switch gives you 16 Fast Ethernet PoE+ ports alongside two Gigabit RJ45 uplinks and one SFP slot. A built-in 320W power supply delivers up to 30W per port for 48V devices. It features a fanless design for silent operation and a CCTV mode that extends transmission up to 820 feet. It suits you if you deploy multiple IP surveillance cameras.

Pros

  • 320W internal power budget supporting up to 30W per PoE+ port
  • Two dedicated Gigabit RJ45 uplink ports plus one SFP slot
  • Fanless design ensures silent operation
  • CCTV mode supports port isolation and extension up to 820 feet

Cons

  • Downlink camera ports are limited to 100Mbps Fast Ethernet speeds
  • Unmanaged architecture provides no software management interface
  • Does not power 24V passive PoE hardware directly

Good fit if

  • You run up to 16 standard 48V IP cameras or access points.
  • You need Gigabit RJ45 or fiber SFP uplinks to your router or NVR.
  • You require long-distance cable runs up to 820 feet in CCTV mode.

Skip if

  • You need Gigabit throughput on all downstream access ports.
  • You deploy 24V passive PoE hardware without separate splitters.
  • You require managed switch capabilities like software-based VLAN controls.

Verdict: Hohtouying 19-Port PoE Fast Ethernet Switch delivers high-capacity power and physical isolation modes for multi-camera surveillance deployments.

Specifications side by side

Spec TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet Switch Tenda 24-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch Tenda 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet PoE Switch Real HD 16-Port Fast Ethernet PoE+ Switch YuanLey 10-Port Fast Ethernet PoE+ Switch MokerLink 8-Port 2.5G Switch with 10G SFP+ SICSOLINK 10-Port Fast Ethernet PoE+ Switch VIMIN 10-Port Gigabit PoE Switch YuanLey 8-Port 10G Ethernet Switch NICGIGA 10-Port PoE+ Switch with 2 Gigabit Uplinks MokerLink 5-Port 10G Smart Managed Switch D-Link 16-Port Fast Ethernet Switch Ztyuav 26-Port 400W Fast Ethernet PoE Switch Hohtouying 19-Port PoE Fast Ethernet Switch
Port Count 5 24 5 5 16 10 8 10 10 8 10 5 16 26 19
Port Speed 10/100 Mbps 10/100/1000Mbps 10/100/1000Mbps 10/100 Mbps 10/100 Mbps 10/100 Mbps 2.5 Gbps not specified 10/100/1000 Mbps 10G/5G/2.5G/1G/100Mbps 100 Mbps 10 Gbps 10/100 Mbps 10/100Mbps 100 Mbps
Management Type Unmanaged Unmanaged not specified not specified Unmanaged Unmanaged Unmanaged Unmanaged Unmanaged Unmanaged Unmanaged Web Managed Unmanaged Unmanaged Unmanaged
PoE Support not specified not specified not specified PoE+ (802.3at/af) PoE+ (802.3af/at) PoE+ (802.3af/at) not specified PoE+ (802.3af/at) PoE+ (IEEE 802.3af/at) not specified PoE+ (802.3af/at) not specified not specified PoE+ 802.3af/at
PoE Power Budget not specified not specified not specified 67W 300W 120W not specified 120 W 120W not specified 120 W not specified not specified 400W 320W
Uplink Ports not specified not specified not specified not specified 2 Gigabit Uplink Ethernet Ports 2 x Gigabit 1 x 10G SFP+ 2 x FE Uplink 2 x Gigabit 2 x 10G SFP+ not specified not specified not specified 2 Gigabit UpLink Ports 2 x Gigabit, 1 x SFP
Switching Capacity not specified not specified not specified not specified not specified not specified 60 Gbps not specified not specified 160Gbps not specified 100Gbps not specified not specified not specified
Mounting Type Desktop Desktop, Rack Mount not specified Desktop, Wall-Mount Rack Mount, desktop or a wall not specified Desktop, Wall-Mount not specified Desktop, Wall-Mount 19-inch rackmount, desktop Desktop, Rackmount not specified Desktop, Rackmount Desktop, Wall-Mount, Rackmount not specified
Number of Ports 5 Ports 24 Ports 5 Ports 5 Ports 16 Ports 10 Ports 8 Ports 10 Ports 10 Ports 8 Ports 10 Ports 5 Ports 16 Ports not specified not specified
Uplink Port Type not specified not specified not specified not specified Gigabit Uplink Gigabit Uplink SFP not specified not specified SFP Gigabit Uplink not specified not specified Gigabit Uplink SFP, Gigabit Uplink
Recommended Use not specified not specified not specified not specified not specified not specified not specified not specified not specified not specified not specified not specified not specified not specified IP Cameras
Dimensions 4.07 × 2.74 × 0.87 inches 11.6 × 7.01 × 1.73 inches 3.66 × 2.6 × 0.91 inches 3.93 × 3.86 × 0.98 inches not specified 7.9 × 4.7 × 1.7 inches not specified 3.54 × 6.69 × 1.57 inches not specified not specified not specified not specified 11 × 4.96 × 1.73 inches 10.6 × 7.13 × 1.73 inches 12.2 × 8.1 × 1.77 inches
Weight 3.53 ounces 1.98 pounds 3.53 ounces 8.47 ounces 4.3 pounds 2.12 pounds not specified 9.28 ounces not specified 4.23 pounds not specified not specified 1.96 pounds 3.53 pounds not specified
Size 5 Port 24-Port 5 port 1G 5 Port w/ 4-Port PoE+ not specified 10 Port | 8*PoE+ (120w) not specified Standard 10 Port Gigabit PoE Switch not specified not specified not specified not specified A-24 PoE(100Mbps) 400W+2x1G Uplink not specified
Color 5 Blue Carbon 5-Port Black Blue not specified Black Black Black Black Black Black Black black
Model TL-SF1005D TEG1024D SG105 TL-SF1005P 16 port poe switch 10 Port | 8*PoE+ (120w) 8x2.5G + 1x10G SFP+ Unmanaged 10 Port (8 PoE + 2 FE Uplink) 120 W [NEW]10 Port | 8xPoE+120W | 2xUPLink 8 Port | 6x10G +2x10G SFP+ 10 Port | 8x PoE+ 120W + 2x UPLink 5*10G Managed DES-1016D 26 Ports|24 PoE+Gigabit Uplink 400W 19 Ports|320W 16xPoE+

Choosing the Right Fast Ethernet Switch

  1. Match Port Count to Devices

    Count your current wired devices and include at least two spare ports for future equipment. Basic setups for a printer and a computer only require a compact 5-port unit. Larger installations with numerous network appliances, office computers, or surveillance hardware require 16-port or 24-port options. Choosing a model like the Tenda 24-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch ensures you have sufficient RJ45 connections ready without daisy-chaining multiple hardware boxes together, which reduces cable clutter and simplifies network layout.

  2. Calculate PoE Power Budgets

    Check the combined wattage required by all connected access points, VoIP phones, and IP cameras before selecting a switch. Each PoE device draws dedicated wattage, and running multiple units can quickly exceed compact supplies. Switches provide different total capacities, ranging from modest 67W supplies up to heavy-duty allocations. The Ztyuav 26-Port 400W Fast Ethernet PoE Switch delivers up to 400W across its ports, preventing power cutoffs when you attach power-hungry outdoor security cameras that operate day and night.

  3. Select Switch Management Type

    Determine if you need granular control over your network traffic or pure plug-and-play simplicity. Most Fast Ethernet devices are unmanaged, requiring zero configuration, software menus, or setup time. However, if your installation requires Layer 2 management features, traffic prioritization, or network segmentation, look for smart managed models. The MokerLink 5-Port 10G Smart Managed Switch provides dedicated management tools alongside multi-rate speeds, giving advanced administrators the ability to control data flows directly rather than relying on automatic traffic routing.

  4. Evaluate Mounting and Enclosure

    Review the physical space where you plan to install your switch. Compact 5-port units measure only a few inches wide and weigh a few ounces, making them well suited for sitting behind a desk or television. Larger switches intended for commercial wiring closets or server cabinets need specific dimensions and rack-mount support. The D-Link 16-Port Fast Ethernet Switch supports both desktop placement and rack mounting within standard hardware brackets, ensuring secure installation whether placed flat on a shelf or screwed into an equipment rack.

  5. Verify Mixed Network Speeds

    Connecting older 10/100 Mbps hardware to modern networks requires a switch that auto-negotiates multiple connection rates. While Fast Ethernet handles standard cameras and basic smart devices, linking back to high-capacity storage or modern routers demands wider bandwidth. Models featuring multi-gigabit RJ45 ports and SFP+ slots bridge legacy and high-speed equipment without bottlenecks. The YuanLey 8-Port 10G Ethernet Switch supports connections from 100Mbps up to 10Gbps, allowing you to run low-bandwidth devices alongside ultra-fast multi-gigabit clients on the exact same physical switch.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet?

Fast Ethernet transfers data up to 100 Mbps, while Gigabit Ethernet reaches up to 1000 Mbps. Fast Ethernet easily handles low-bandwidth tasks like IP surveillance cameras, smart home hubs, and older network printers. Models like the Tenda SG105 and Tenda TEG1024D support both Gigabit and Fast Ethernet speeds, letting you mix faster devices with standard 100 Mbps equipment on your local network.

Can you plug a Gigabit device into a Fast Ethernet switch port?

Yes, network ports automatically negotiate link speeds across backwards-compatible standards. When you plug a Gigabit device into a Fast Ethernet port, such as on the TP-Link TL-SF1005D or D-Link DES-1016D, the link negotiates down to 100 Mbps. Your connection functions normally, but your local transfer rates will cap at Fast Ethernet limits.

What does an unmanaged Fast Ethernet switch do?

An unmanaged switch forwards wired network traffic automatically without requiring software installation or administrative settings. Units like the Tenda TEG1024D and SICSOLINK 10-Port switch work immediately once you plug in power and cables. In contrast, smart managed models like the MokerLink 5-Port 10G switch provide Layer 2 configuration options for users who need fine-grained control over network traffic.

Why do some Fast Ethernet switches include SFP uplink ports?

SFP uplink ports allow switches to connect to high-bandwidth fiber modules or core network infrastructure. Hardware like the MokerLink 8-Port switch and Hohtouying 19-Port switch feature SFP or 10G SFP+ slots. These uplinks prevent data bottlenecks by carrying all aggregated data from your connected 10/100 Mbps Fast Ethernet devices back to your primary router or storage server.

Can a Fast Ethernet switch power IP cameras directly?

Yes, provided the switch includes built-in Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities. Models like the TP-Link TL-SF1005P deliver up to 67W across four ports, while the Real HD 16-Port model supplies a 300W power budget. These units send electric power and data over one Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for nearby electrical outlets at each camera installation spot.

How do you mount a larger Fast Ethernet switch?

Mounting options depend on the physical chassis size and included mounting brackets. The D-Link DES-1016D supports desktop and rackmount installations, and the Real HD 16-Port switch features a rackmount design. In contrast, compact units like the TP-Link TL-SF1005D measure 4.07 inches long and weigh 0.22 pounds, making them ideal for standard desktop placement.

Do Fast Ethernet switches require internal cooling fans?

No, many Fast Ethernet switches utilize fanless cooling architectures for completely silent operation. Hardware such as the Tenda TEG1024D 24-port switch and SICSOLINK 10-port switch use fanless metal enclosures that dissipate heat passively. This silent operation prevents background motor noise, making these units practical for quiet living spaces, bedrooms, or small desktop setups.

See also