D-Link DGS-1210-08P Web Smart PoE Switch: features, specs and who it suits

The D-Link DGS-1210-08P is a managed network switch with eight Gigabit Ethernet ports that can supply Power over Ethernet, plus two SFP ports for fibre or other module-based links. D-Link places it in its Web Smart range, which sits between a plug-in unmanaged switch and a full enterprise-managed one. It is aimed at small offices and home networks that run powered devices such as access points or IP cameras.

What the port layout means

D-Link describes the switch as an 8-port Gigabit PoE smart switch with 2 SFP ports. The eight copper ports run at 10/100/1000 Mbps and sense the speed of whatever is plugged in. In general, Gigabit speed is enough for most office computers, printers, cameras and wireless access points.

The two SFP ports take small pluggable modules. They are typically used for fibre-optic links over longer distances than copper cable allows, such as a connection to another building or a distant cabinet. The listing doesn't say which modules are supported, so confirm that with D-Link before buying any.

Power over Ethernet in brief

PoE delivers electricity and data over one network cable, so a camera, VoIP phone or wireless access point can be placed where there is no nearby power socket. The listing states that all eight copper ports are PoE ports. It doesn't give the total power limit in the text, so check the full specification sheet to see how much power the switch can supply across all ports at once, and how much each of your devices needs.

What Web Smart management offers

A Web Smart switch is configured through a web browser rather than a command line. In general, switches in this class let you set up features such as VLANs, which divide a network into separate groups, and traffic prioritisation for voice and video. The listing doesn't detail the feature set, so check D-Link's documentation for the exact options on this model.

Fanless design

The listing notes that the switch is fanless. Without a fan it makes no fan noise, which suits an office, a classroom or a home where it sits in the same room as people. It also avoids a fan as a part that can wear out. Fanless switches rely on airflow around the case, so leave space around it.

Size

The switch measures about 11.0 x 5.0 x 1.7 inches (28 x 12.7 x 4.3 cm) and weighs about 2.7 lb (1.2 kg). It is a compact unit that can sit on a shelf or be mounted if suitable hardware is available. Check the packaging for what is included.

Who it suits

It suits a small network that needs to power several devices from one place and wants some control over the network without a complicated setup. People adding cameras or access points to a building often use switches like this.

What to check before you buy

• PoE power: compare the switch's total power limit with the combined needs of your devices.
• Standards: confirm your devices use a PoE standard the switch supports.
• SFP modules: if you plan to use the SFP ports, check which modules are compatible.
• Features: confirm the Web Smart features you need are present on this model.
• Placement: allow ventilation space and follow the manual and local electrical codes.
• Cabling: use suitable Ethernet cable for the distance and speed.

The short version

• A D-Link Web Smart managed switch with eight Gigabit PoE ports.
• Two SFP ports for module-based links.
• Configured through a web interface.
• Fanless, so there is no fan noise.
• About 11.0 x 5.0 x 1.7 inches and 2.7 lb.

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