NETGEAR GS116PP 16-Port PoE+ Switch: features, specs and who it suits

The NETGEAR GS116PP is an unmanaged network switch with 16 Gigabit Ethernet ports, all of which can supply Power over Ethernet (PoE+). It lets you connect wired devices and power compatible ones, such as IP cameras, wireless access points and VoIP phones, through the same cable. That means fewer power adapters and fewer outlets to find near each device.

What Power over Ethernet does

PoE sends electrical power along the same twisted-pair cable that carries data. A device that supports it, such as a ceiling access point or a security camera, needs only one cable run back to the switch. PoE+ refers to the IEEE 802.3at standard, which typically allows up to about 30W per port at the switch, enough for most cameras, phones and access points.

Devices that don't use PoE can still be plugged into the same ports. Switches of this type typically detect whether a connected device asks for power and only supply it when it does.

Understanding the 183W power limit

NETGEAR lists a total PoE power allowance of 183W across the 16 ports. That is a shared limit, not a per-port figure. If you connect devices that together ask for more than 183W, the switch can't power all of them.

For planning, add up the maximum power each powered device is rated for, and compare the total with 183W. A group of cameras that each draw around 8 to 12W fits comfortably. A handful of high-power devices that each want close to 30W would use up the allowance quickly.

Gigabit speed and unmanaged setup

Each of the 16 ports runs at Gigabit speed (1,000 Mbps), which suits most office, home-lab and camera networks. NETGEAR describes setup as plug and play, with no software to install and nothing to configure. "Unmanaged" means there is no web interface for VLANs, port rules or traffic shaping. The switch simply passes traffic between connected devices.

That simplicity is the point for small installations. If you need to separate networks, prioritise traffic or monitor individual ports, a managed switch is the usual choice instead.

Desktop, wall or rack mounting

The GS116PP can sit on a desk, mount on a wall or fit a rack, and NETGEAR says the mounting hardware is included in the box. Listed dimensions are about 11.3 in wide by 4.0 in deep by 1.1 in high, and it weighs 1.9 lb, so it is a light, slim unit.

NETGEAR also describes the design as silent and compliant with IEEE 802.3az, the energy-efficient Ethernet standard that lowers power use on idle links. Listings for fanless switches typically note that heat is shed through the case, so leave some space around it.

Warranty and region

NETGEAR lists a limited lifetime hardware warranty, next-business-day replacement and 24/7 chat support. The listing also states the unit is made for use in the U.S. and Canada only, so check that it matches your electrical supply.

Who it suits

It suits a small business, a home office or a home lab that needs to connect and power several PoE devices without managing the network. It is also a sensible fit for a camera system, where one cable per camera keeps wiring tidy.

What to check before you buy

• Power needs: add up the rated draw of every PoE device and compare it with the 183W total.
• Standards: confirm your devices use standard PoE or PoE+ rather than a proprietary scheme.
• Port count: 16 ports go quickly once cameras, access points and computers are all connected. Plan for spare ports.
• Cable runs: Ethernet runs are typically limited to about 100 metres (328 ft).
• Features: if you want VLANs or remote management, an unmanaged switch won't offer them.
• Placement: decide whether it will sit on a desk, wall or rack, and where the nearest outlet is.

The short version

• Unmanaged switch with 16 Gigabit ports, all PoE+.
• 183W total PoE power shared across the ports.
• No software or configuration; desktop, wall or rack mounting with hardware included.
• Energy-efficient (IEEE 802.3az) design, described by NETGEAR as silent.
• Limited lifetime hardware warranty; made for use in the U.S. and Canada.

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