NETGEAR GS308EPP 8-Port PoE+ Gigabit Switch: features and who it suits

The NETGEAR GS308EPP is a compact eight-port Gigabit Ethernet switch in which all eight ports can supply Power over Ethernet (PoE+). That lets one cable carry both data and power to devices such as IP cameras, VoIP phones and wireless access points. Here is what the specs mean and what to plan for.

What PoE+ does

Power over Ethernet sends electrical power along the same twisted-pair cable that carries network data, so a device needs no nearby power outlet. PoE+ is the IEEE 802.3at standard, which typically allows up to 30W per port at the switch. A camera mounted under a roof edge or an access point on a ceiling then needs only one cable run.

The total power limit

The important number is the total PoE power, not just the port count. NETGEAR lists 8 PoE+ ports sharing 123W (the description rounds this to 124W). That is the combined power the switch can deliver across all ports at once. If every device draws only a few watts, 123W goes a long way. If you connect several devices that each need close to 30W, you will reach the limit before all eight ports are in use. Add up the rated draw of each device and compare it with the 123W total.

Gigabit speeds and Smart Managed Plus

All eight ports are Gigabit Ethernet, so each link runs at up to 1 Gbps, enough for HD camera streams, VoIP calls and general office traffic. NETGEAR calls the software "Plus" and describes an easy-to-use interface with basic managed capabilities to configure, secure and monitor your network. Switches in this class typically offer features such as VLANs, port monitoring and PoE settings through a browser-based tool, without the depth of a fully managed enterprise switch. The specific feature list isn't given here, so check NETGEAR's documentation.

Placement and efficiency

The switch can sit on a desk or be wall mounted, and it measures about 10.5 x 6.5 x 3.3 inches as listed. It complies with IEEE 802.3az (Energy Efficient Ethernet), which lets links reduce power use when idle. NETGEAR lists a three-year limited hardware warranty. This model is for use in North America (US and Canada) only.

Typical uses

NETGEAR names VoIP phones, surveillance IP cameras and wireless access points. A small office, a home network with a few cameras, or a workshop with an access point in a far corner would all be typical fits.

What to check before you buy

• Total PoE draw: add up the wattage of every device and keep it under the 123W total.
• Device standard: confirm your devices use standard PoE or PoE+ (802.3af/at).
• Uplink: one port connects to your router, leaving seven for devices, so count them.
• Cable quality: use proper Ethernet cabling, and keep runs within the standard limit of 100 metres (328 ft).
• Region: this model is made for North America.
• Management needs: if you need advanced routing or large-scale management, check that the Plus feature set covers you.

The short version

• Eight Gigabit Ethernet ports, all PoE+, sharing 123W of PoE power.
• Smart Managed Plus software for basic configuration, security and monitoring.
• Desktop or wall mounting; IEEE 802.3az energy-efficient design.
• Three-year limited hardware warranty; for North America only.

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