NETGEAR GS108MX 8-Port Multi-Gig Switch: features, specs and who it suits

The NETGEAR GS108MX is an unmanaged Ethernet switch with eight gigabit ports and one faster multi-gigabit uplink port. A switch lets you connect many wired devices, such as computers, printers, cameras and access points, to the same network. This model is aimed at small networks where the connection back to the router or a server needs more than standard gigabit speed.

Eight 1G ports and one 10G/Multi-gig uplink

Eight of the ports run at 1 gigabit per second. The ninth is a 10G/Multi-gig RJ-45 port that NETGEAR describes as an uplink. Multi-gig ports can typically negotiate several speeds, such as 1G, 2.5G, 5G and 10G, depending on the device and cable at the other end. Using a faster link to a router, server or network storage device means the eight gigabit devices aren't squeezed through a single gigabit connection at the same time.

NETGEAR describes the uplink as non-blocking. The speed you get depends on the equipment at the other end and on the cabling, so check that both the connected device and the cable support the speed you want.

Unmanaged and plug and play

An unmanaged switch has no settings to configure. NETGEAR says there is no software to install and no configuration needed: connect the cables and it works. The trade-off is that unmanaged switches don't offer features such as VLANs or detailed traffic control, which managed switches do. For many homes and small offices, that simplicity is a benefit.

Fanless metal case and quiet operation

The ports sit in a fanless metal case, and NETGEAR lists quiet operation. With no fan, there's no fan noise, which suits a desk, a living room or a shared office. A fanless switch still needs some airflow around it, so follow the manual on ventilation.

Energy efficiency

The switch is designed to comply with IEEE 802.3az, also known as Energy-Efficient Ethernet. In general, this lets a port drop into a low-power state when no data is passing and wake up when it's needed, which cuts power use at quiet times.

Desktop or wall mounting

You can put the switch on a desk or mount it on a wall. The listing gives the dimensions as 11.8 x 7.7 x 3.1 inches. Check the manual for mounting hardware and orientation if you plan to fix it to a wall.

Support

NETGEAR lists a limited lifetime hardware warranty, next business day replacement and 24/7 chat with a NETGEAR expert. Read the terms for what is covered and the conditions that apply.

Who it suits

It suits small offices and home networks that want more wired ports and a fast link to a router, server or storage. For example, a 10G or multi-gig uplink can connect the switch to a NAS or to a router with a matching port. If you need VLANs, port monitoring or remote management, an unmanaged switch won't offer them.

What to check before you buy

• Uplink partner: confirm that your router, server or NAS has a matching multi-gig port.
• Cabling: use cable suited to the speed you want. Check NETGEAR's guidance.
• Features: unmanaged means no VLANs or detailed controls.
• Power: check the power supply and whether it provides power over Ethernet (the listing doesn't mention PoE).
• Placement: leave airflow around the case and check the mounting arrangements.
• Port count: make sure eight client ports is enough for now and later.

The short version

• An unmanaged switch with eight 1G ports and one 10G/Multi-gig RJ-45 uplink.
• Plug and play; no software or configuration.
• Fanless metal case, quiet operation and IEEE 802.3az energy efficiency.
• Desktop or wall mounting.
• Limited lifetime hardware warranty with next business day replacement, per NETGEAR.

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