NETGEAR GS108 8-Port Gigabit Switch: features, specs and who it suits

The NETGEAR GS108 is an eight-port Gigabit Ethernet switch for a desk or shelf. It takes a single wired connection from a router and shares it among up to seven more devices, so computers, consoles, streaming boxes, printers and network storage can all be cabled in. NETGEAR describes it as a way to build a powerful, high-speed network on a small scale.

What 10/100/1000 means

Each port supports 10, 100 or 1,000 Mbps connections. A port adapts to the device plugged into it, so a gigabit-capable laptop can run at full speed while an older device on the next port stays at 100 Mbps. NETGEAR says every connection gets a full, dedicated rate, which is how a switch differs from a hub, where devices share one pool of bandwidth.

For large files, such as video archives or backups moving between a PC and a NAS, gigabit speeds are typically much faster than Wi-Fi in a busy home.

The 16 Gbit/s figure

The listing gives 16Gbit/sec. That is a switching capacity: the total amount of traffic the internal fabric can handle across all ports at once. Eight ports at 1 Gbps each, in both directions, add up to 16 Gbps, so the switch is built to keep every port running at full speed simultaneously without a bottleneck inside the unit.

Standards supported

The listing names IEEE 802.3ab (gigabit over twisted-pair copper), 802.3i (10 Mbps Ethernet) and 802.3u (100 Mbps Fast Ethernet). In plain terms, these are the standards that let ordinary Ethernet cables and older network gear work with the switch. Cat 5e or better cable is usually recommended for gigabit.

Plug and play

The GS108 is an unmanaged switch with a plug-and-play design. There is no software, web page or configuration step; you connect power, connect the cables and it works. That makes it suitable for homes, small offices and workshops. It does not offer managed features such as VLANs, so networks that need to be segmented or monitored by port call for a managed model.

Size and warranty

The listed dimensions are 4.0 x 9.3 x 1.1 inches (about 10 x 24 x 3 cm), with a weight of 1.7 lb (roughly 0.8 kg). It is a slim desktop unit that can sit on a shelf or behind a monitor.

NETGEAR says the switch is backed by ProSAFE Lifetime Protection and a lifetime manufacturer's warranty. Read the terms for what is covered and how to claim, since lifetime warranties generally follow the manufacturer's definitions.

What to check before you buy

• Port count. Count your wired devices and leave room for the link back to the router plus spare ports.
• Router connection. The switch needs one cable running to your router or modem-router; it does not create an internet connection itself.
• Power and placement. Make sure there is an outlet nearby and a spot with some airflow.
• Cables. Have enough Ethernet cables of the right length and quality.
• Features. If you need managed features, power over Ethernet or faster-than-gigabit ports, confirm the model supports them; the listing does not mention them.

The short version

• An eight-port, 10/100/1000 desktop Ethernet switch from NETGEAR.
• Rated at 16 Gbit/s total switching capacity.
• Plug and play, with no setup.
• Lists IEEE 802.3ab, 802.3i and 802.3u support.
• Backed by a lifetime manufacturer's warranty, according to NETGEAR.

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