What is a network switch? I found it by talking to a NetGear expert

If you’re serious Optimize your internet connectionThen, using a network switch, you can take it to the next level. “If the internet at home works properly without a network switch, do you really need it?” I spoke to a NetGear expert and discovered the benefits of using one. Spoiler: You can improve your connection.

A network switch is the device you connect to you router. It opens more Ethernet Allows ports and routers to connect to multiple devices. If your household is frequently dependent on broadband connections in your home stream or gamethese activities can embrace many people Bandwidth. It helps to provide a network switch to speed up your connections. Sometimes, Advanced Network Switches can also prioritize traffic for specific devices. Smart TV or Game Console Reduce network congestion. Why is this important? Well, if your network is suffering from a lot of congestion, you will probably see a slower and inconsistent speed. This allows you to play the game or you can really put the damper on Stream your favorite shows.

There are multiple types of network switches, which cover a bit. Each serves its own purpose. However, choosing the best network switch for your needs depends on a few things.

Before considering investing in network switches, “users need to consider their own level of high-tech savinity, their desire for customization and control, and what the network needs.”

Anyway, how do the network switch?

It’s easy to confuse routers and network switches. Because they provide similar functionality, but have different purposes. According to Spiceworks, A router forwards information from one computer network to another via data packets. It also allows traffic to be directed between these computer networks and routed to the final destination, which is the designated Internet protocol address. Alias ​​an IP address. A network switch, on the other hand, is a device that connects a router to multiple devices. Works at Layer 2 of the Interconnection Model of Open Systems. The network switch sends data over packets using the appropriate Ethernet port that leads to the intended device. One of the main benefits of using a network switch is that it You can connect your router to multiple devices Like computerwireless access points, printers, and other servers.

Knowing the different types of switches available can help you better understand how network switches work. The names of these switches may vary based on industry, but overall, switches are categorized into the minor category and are fully managed.

Network Switch Types and Prices

NetGear classifies the switches into the following buckets:

• Unmanaged switch It is the simplest type that includes plug and play devices that require little setup or configuration. These are most useful for basic switching and connecting for the average household. Most unmanaged switches are cheap options, priced under $100.
• Smart managed switch Provides more complex features and advanced controls. It provides customized controls to prioritize certain types of traffic, such as video calls and streaming. Like fully managed switches, smart management devices range from $100 to $2,000 or more.
• Fully managed switch It is considered a top-class enterprise-grade device. They usually have professional audio, video and other complex networking features. Plus, they provide the most secure and accurate network control and management. These switches benefit businesses that need connections to larger networks. The only downside is that it will probably be the most expensive option. Most fully managed switches range from $120 to $7,000 or more.

So, which type of network switch is the best?

For the average household, you may only use unmanaged or smart managed switches. “Most households will benefit most from simple, inexpensive and unmanaged switches,” Henkel said.

“You don’t need the customization and management options that come with an enterprise-grade managed switch.”

Faster speeds, greater security, and better controls

Now that we’ve covered the different types of switches available, how do network switches actually help you with your home internet connection? Network switches are ideal as they help speed up your home internet connection. Most households use devices such as televisions, printers, and computers, which consume a lot of bandwidth. According to OpenFults The latest report for the first quarter of 2025 showed that downstream usage increased 12.1% compared to last year, while upstream usage increased 13.7%. Various online activities rely on both Downstream (download) and upstream (upload) usage.

The same report highlighted that in 2024, more than 115 million US households owned smart TVs, spending an average of more than 21 hours of streaming per week. Needless to say, investment in network switches is worth it as more and more households are consuming more and more bandwidth.

According to Akamai, Some of the common benefits of using a network switch are:

Increased bandwidth

Network switches help speed up connected devices. If you notice you Actual speeds differ from those advertised by Internet service providers. This can be from a number of factors. Router layoutyour home layout, Large walls and obstacles Wi-Fi signal or even interference Throttle speed from ISP. However, if you’ve tried out different ways to optimize your connection at home and are experiencing internet troubles, it may be time to invest in a network switch.

Improved security

The switch creates virtual LANs or VLANs, isolates network traffic, isolates susceptibility data, and restricts access to authorized devices only. This is especially useful Protect your network From fraudulent devices and hackers.

Increased network control

Control and manage your network. Adding a network switch can increase the number of connected devices.

Ethernet power supply over wi-fi

Many network switches typically use Ethernet technology to connect to other devices. Ethernet cables can be more energy efficient as these devices do not require a separate power source. In addition, Ethernet connections may provide faster speeds than Wi-Fi.

Network switches are great if they can pass a steep price tag

As we cover, having a network switch has many benefits. The biggest drawback, however, is that switches usually have a steep price tag. Overall, the price depends on the brand and the type of network switch you purchased. Most often, the average network switch Ranges ranging from $120 to $30,000. Keep in mind that a fully managed switch is likely to be on the more expensive end of its range. However, there are some online unmanaged switches with more basic features at prices under $100.

So is a network switch worth it?

“You don’t need the best switches, but we recommend researching and investing in high-quality products,” Henkel said.

He also recommended that high-quality network switches are likely to require a larger upfront investment, which means they can get better results for the money as they will be more durable for the next few years.

Network switches can be a game changer for optimizing your home internet connection. It offers many advantages that are ideal for the average household, including increased speed, security, and network control. An unmanaged network switch with basic controls can be sufficient for the average household. However, if you want more personalized controls, including prioritizing traffic for a particular device, you can expect to pay more upfront payments.

Network Switch FAQ