NETGEAR GS116LP 16-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch: features, specs and who it suits

The NETGEAR GS116LP is an unmanaged network switch with 16 Gigabit Ethernet ports, all of them Power over Ethernet Plus (PoE+). It gives a home or small office plenty of wired connections and can power devices such as IP cameras and wireless access points over the same cable. Here is what the specs mean and what to plan for.

What an unmanaged switch is

A switch connects wired devices on a local network. An unmanaged one needs no configuration: NETGEAR describes setup as plug and play, with no software to install. You connect it to your router and plug in your devices. If you need VLANs, traffic rules or remote monitoring, you'd look at a managed switch instead.

16 Gigabit ports

Each port supports up to 1,000 Mbps. Sixteen ports are enough for a busy desk, a few cameras, a network storage device, access points and more, with room to grow. Gigabit ports also accept slower devices, so older equipment is no problem.

PoE+ and the total power limit

Power over Ethernet sends power and data through one network cable, so a compatible device doesn't need a separate adapter or outlet. PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at) is the version that typically allows up to 30W at the port, for devices that draw more than basic PoE can provide.

All 16 ports are PoE+, but the total power available is 76W, shared among all ports. If you connect devices that each draw about 5 to 10W, such as many cameras, that goes a long way. Powering several devices that each want a large share will use it quickly. Add up the wattage of the devices you plan to connect and compare it with the total.

FlexPoE: expanding to 183W

According to the listing, the power limit can be expanded to 183W with a separately purchased power supply module. NETGEAR calls this FlexPoE. It is useful if you start small and add more power-hungry devices later. Check NETGEAR's documentation for the compatible module.

Mounting options

The switch supports desktop, wall or rackmount placement, and the listing says all the necessary mounting hardware is in the box. The dimensions are given as 4.0 x 1.1 x 11.3 inches, and the weight is 1.9 lb (about 0.9 kg). NETGEAR describes the operation as silent, which suits offices and homes, and lists IEEE 802.3az compliance, the Energy-Efficient Ethernet standard that lets ports reduce power use when idle.

Support and region

NETGEAR lists a limited lifetime hardware warranty, next-business-day replacement and 24/7 chat with a NETGEAR expert. The listing states that it is made for use in the U.S. and Canada only.

Who it suits

It suits a small business, studio or larger home that needs many wired ports and a few powered devices, such as IP cameras, access points or VoIP phones. It is meant for simple networks without management needs.

What to check before you buy

• Total wattage: compare your devices' combined draw with 76W, or 183W with the module.
• PoE standard: make sure your devices support PoE+ (802.3at) or standard PoE.
• Cable length: Ethernet runs are typically limited to about 100 metres.
• Where it goes: decide between desk, wall or rack, and check the space and cable routing.
• Management needs: an unmanaged switch has no VLANs or monitoring.
• Region: the listing says it is for use in the U.S. and Canada.

The short version

• 16 Gigabit Ethernet ports, all PoE+.
• 76W total PoE power, expandable to 183W with a separately purchased power module.
• Unmanaged and plug and play; desktop, wall or rackmount, with hardware included.
• Silent operation and IEEE 802.3az energy-efficient design.
• Limited lifetime hardware warranty; for use in the U.S. and Canada.

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