Cisco CBS110-8T-D 8-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch: features and specs

The Cisco CBS110-8T-D is a small desktop network switch with eight Gigabit Ethernet ports. It takes one connection from a router and shares it among wired devices such as computers, printers, access points and network storage. It belongs to Cisco's Business 110 series of unmanaged switches, which are aimed at small offices, retail counters and classrooms that want more ports without any configuration.

What an unmanaged switch does

A switch passes traffic between the devices plugged into it. An unmanaged model has no menus, logins or settings to maintain: you plug in the cables and it starts working. Cisco describes the 110 series as plug-and-play, needing no IT know-how or support. The trade-off is that unmanaged switches typically can't create separate virtual networks (VLANs), monitor traffic in detail or be controlled remotely. Those jobs belong to managed switches.

Eight ports at 10/100/1000

Each of the eight ports negotiates speeds of 10, 100 or 1000 Mbps (Gigabit) automatically, so older and newer devices can share the switch. Gigabit wiring typically needs Cat5e or better cable. The "-D" in the model name and the "Ext PS" in the listing refer to an external power supply, meaning a separate power adapter plugs into the switch. The model is for desktop placement; it measures about 6.3 x 4.1 x 1.3 inches (16 x 10.4 x 3.3 cm).

Cisco notes that the wider series spans 5 to 24 ports, with and without Power over Ethernet (PoE) options. This particular model is the 8-port version listed without PoE, so devices such as IP cameras or phones will need their own power sources.

Traffic prioritization with QoS

Cisco says the switch has integrated quality-of-service (QoS) intelligence. In general, QoS lets a switch treat time-sensitive traffic, such as voice calls or video meetings, ahead of bulk transfers like large downloads. The aim is to keep delay-sensitive services smooth when a network is busy. With an unmanaged switch this happens automatically, rather than through rules you write yourself.

Fanless and energy-efficient

The listing says all models in the series are fanless, so there is no fan noise. That suits open-plan offices, classrooms and reception areas where the switch sits within earshot. It also complies with IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet, a standard that lets ports drop into a low-power state when there is no traffic. Cisco says this optimizes power usage.

Where it fits

Cisco describes the design as compact and suited to installation outside a wiring closet, such as in retail stores, open-plan offices and classrooms. It would also suit a home office that has outgrown the ports on its router, a workshop with a few wired machines, or a living-room media setup with a console, television and streaming box.

Warranty and support

Cisco states the switch carries limited lifetime protection, with return-to-factory replacement and one year of technical support. The exact terms matter, so read the warranty document for what is and isn't covered.

What to check before you buy

• Port count: count your wired devices now and add a few spare ports for growth.
• PoE needs: this model is listed without PoE, so confirm that no device needs power through its network cable.
• Speed of your uplink: a Gigabit switch can't exceed the speed of the router connection feeding it, or of your internet plan.
• Cabling: check that your cables are suitable for Gigabit speeds.
• Management needs: if you need VLANs, monitoring or remote control, an unmanaged switch won't provide them.
• Placement: you'll need a nearby power outlet for the external adapter and a flat surface or a mounting solution of your own.

The short version

• Cisco CBS110-8T-D-NA: an 8-port 10/100/1000 unmanaged desktop switch.
• Plug-and-play, with no configuration needed.
• Integrated QoS and IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet.
• Fanless and compact, about 6.3 x 4.1 x 1.3 inches.
• Limited lifetime protection with one year of technical support, as Cisco describes it.

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