Cisco CBS350-16P-2G Managed PoE Switch: features, specs and who it suits

The Cisco Business CBS350-16P-2G (model CBS350-16P-2G-NA) is a fully managed network switch for small business networks. It offers 16 Gigabit Ethernet ports that can also supply power to connected devices, plus two SFP ports for fibre or extra uplinks. It suits offices, shops and classrooms that need to connect and power phones, access points and cameras from one box.

What the ports give you

The switch has sixteen 10/100/1000 ports and two 1G SFP slots. The copper ports connect computers, printers, access points and other wired devices at up to Gigabit speed. SFP slots take small pluggable modules, which typically let you run a fibre link to another switch or building, or add another copper uplink, depending on the module you choose.

Power over Ethernet and the 120W allowance

All 16 copper ports support PoE and PoE+, which means the switch can send power along the Ethernet cable to devices such as IP phones, wireless access points and security cameras. That removes the need for a separate power adapter and nearby outlet at each device.

The important number is the total PoE power, which Cisco lists as 120W. Standard PoE ports typically deliver up to about 15W each and PoE+ up to about 30W, but the total is shared. Sixteen devices drawing the maximum would exceed 120W, though most phones and access points draw much less. Add up the needs of what you plan to connect.

Managed features and security

"Managed" means you can configure the switch: set up VLANs to separate traffic, monitor ports and control access. Cisco describes full Layer 2/3 capabilities, which typically means the switch can also route traffic between VLANs. You can manage it through an on-box interface or through the Cisco Business Dashboard, which the brand says simplifies operations and lifecycle management.

On security, Cisco lists IP-MAC port binding, which it says detects and blocks deliberate network attacks, and IPv6 First Hop Security against address spoofing and man-in-the-middle attacks on IPv6 networks.

Design and installation

Cisco describes the design as compact and suited to places outside a wiring closet, such as retail stores, open-plan offices and classrooms. It measures 10.6 x 11.7 x 1.7 inches (about 27 x 30 x 4.3 cm) and weighs 8.8 lb (about 4 kg). Cisco says it is fanless in most models, which typically means silent running; check the specification for this exact model, because PoE switches often need active cooling.

It is compliant with IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet, which reduces power use on links during idle periods.

Warranty and support

Cisco lists a limited lifetime warranty with next-business-day advance replacement where available, and one year of technical support.

Who it suits

It fits a small business or school that wants managed features and PoE in a single unit, with room to grow through the SFP uplinks. A home network with a few devices usually doesn't need this level of control.

What to check before you buy

• PoE needs: total up the wattage of your phones, access points and cameras against the 120W total.
• Port count: 16 copper ports plus two SFP; confirm that's enough for current and future devices.
• SFP modules: these are usually bought separately and must match your fibre or cable type.
• Management: decide whether you'll use the on-box interface or the dashboard, and who will configure VLANs.
• Placement: check ventilation and mounting in the manual, and the regional model (this one is -NA).
• Cabling: use suitable Ethernet cable for PoE runs, and follow the manual and local electrical codes.

The short version

• A managed Layer 2/3 switch with 16 Gigabit ports and two 1G SFP slots.
• PoE and PoE+ on all 16 ports with a 120W total power limit.
• IP-MAC port binding and IPv6 First Hop Security.
• Compact, fanless in most models, with IEEE 802.3az support.
• Limited lifetime warranty with advance replacement where available.

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