NETGEAR GS305P 5-Port Gigabit PoE Switch: features and who it suits

The NETGEAR GS305P is a five-port Gigabit Ethernet switch where four of the ports supply Power over Ethernet (PoE). That lets a single network cable carry both data and power to devices such as IP cameras, wireless access points and VoIP phones, so they don't need their own power adapters.

What Power over Ethernet does

PoE sends electrical power through the same cable as the network signal. The benefit is installation flexibility: a camera on a ceiling or an access point in a hallway needs only one cable, with no nearby outlet. The switch must supply enough power for each device, and the device must support PoE.

NETGEAR describes the GS305P as having four PoE ports. The product title mentions PoE+ at 63 W, while the feature list states a 55W total power allowance, so check NETGEAR's datasheet for the figure that applies to your model and region. The allowance is shared between the ports, so the combined draw of your devices matters more than any single port's limit.

Unmanaged, plug-and-play

"Unmanaged" means there is nothing to configure. NETGEAR says setup is simple, with no software to install: connect the power adapter, plug in devices and the switch works. That suits home and small-office users who want more ports without learning network settings. The trade-off is that unmanaged switches generally don't offer features such as VLANs or traffic rules.

Five Gigabit ports

All five ports run at Gigabit speed, up to 1,000 megabits per second per port. In a typical setup, one port is the uplink to your router and the other four connect devices.

Fanless and metal housing

The switch has a fanless design in a sturdy metal housing. NETGEAR says this means zero added noise, which makes it suitable for noise-sensitive places such as bedrooms or studios. With no fan there are no moving parts, though the unit still needs some airflow around it, so follow the guidance in the manual.

Mounting and size

It measures about 4.0 x 6.2 x 1.1 inches and weighs 0.9 lb. NETGEAR says it can sit on a desk or be wall mounted, and lists a wall-mount kit with the switch.

Energy efficiency and support

The brand says the design is intended to optimise power use and that most models comply with IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet. A three-year limited hardware warranty is listed.

What's in the box

NETGEAR lists the switch, a 48V DC 1.25A power adapter with a plug localised to the country of sale, a wall-mount kit and a quick installation guide.

Who it suits

It suits someone who wants to power a few small PoE devices, such as cameras or an access point, from one quiet switch without configuring anything.

What to check before you buy

• Device power needs: add up the wattage of your PoE devices and compare it to the switch's total allowance.
• PoE standard: confirm your devices use a compatible PoE standard.
• Port count: the listing gives four PoE ports out of five.
• Cabling: use suitable Ethernet cable for both data and power.
• Features: it is unmanaged, so check you don't need VLANs or monitoring.
• Placement: pick a spot with airflow and an outlet.

The short version

• Five Gigabit ports, four of them with Power over Ethernet.
• 55W total PoE allowance per the features list; check the datasheet for your region.
• Unmanaged, plug-and-play, with no software.
• Fanless metal housing, desktop or wall mount.
• Three-year limited hardware warranty, per NETGEAR.

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