NETGEAR GS516UP 16-Port PoE++ Switch: features, specs and who it suits

The NETGEAR GS516UP is an unmanaged 16-port Gigabit Ethernet switch that can also power the devices plugged into it. Eight of its ports supply PoE+ and eight supply Ultra60 PoE++, with a total PoE power of 380W. It's aimed at setups with several powered devices, such as wireless access points and IP cameras, where running a separate power cable to each one is a nuisance.

What PoE, PoE+ and PoE++ mean

Power over Ethernet sends electrical power and data over the same network cable. A device such as a camera or access point can then be installed wherever you can run a cable, without a nearby outlet. In general, PoE+ (802.3at) provides up to 30W per port, while higher-power PoE++ standards go further. NETGEAR says each Ultra60 PoE++ port on the GS516UP can provide up to 60 watts, which suits more demanding devices such as PTZ IP cameras, along with wireless access points, LED lights and IoT devices.

The 380W total

The total matters as much as the per-port maximum. It is the total the switch can hand out across all ports at once. Sixteen ports at full output would far exceed 380W, so in practice you add up the draw of the devices you plan to connect and check the total stays under it. Most devices draw less than their port maximum.

Unmanaged means plug and play

NETGEAR describes setup as plug and play, with no software to install and nothing to configure. An unmanaged switch doesn't offer VLANs, traffic rules or a web interface; it just passes traffic between ports. That keeps it simple, but if you need to separate networks or prioritize traffic, you would want a managed model.

Gigabit ports and energy use

All 16 ports are Gigabit Ethernet, meaning up to 1Gbps per port. The switch follows IEEE 802.3az (Energy Efficient Ethernet), which typically lowers power use when links are idle. NETGEAR also lists quiet operation.

Desktop or rack placement

The switch measures about 8.0 x 13.0 x 2.0 inches (20 x 33 x 5 cm) and weighs around 5.7 lb (2.6 kg). It can sit on a desk or shelf, or be mounted in a rack, and NETGEAR says all the mounting hardware is in the box.

Support and regional note

The listing mentions a lifetime limited hardware warranty, next business day replacement and 24/7 chat support with a NETGEAR expert. It also says the product is made for use in the U.S. and Canada only.

Who it suits

It suits homes and small offices with several PoE devices, such as a camera system with an access point or two, where managed features aren't needed. It also suits anyone who wants a single device to supply both data and power.

What to check before you buy

• Power needs: add up the wattage of every PoE device and compare it with the 380W total.
• Port standard: confirm which of your devices need PoE+ and which need the higher PoE++ output.
• Managed features: decide whether you need VLANs or monitoring, which this unmanaged model doesn't provide.
• Cabling: use suitable Ethernet cable for the run lengths and power levels, as the manufacturer advises.
• Space and airflow: leave room around the switch, and check whether you'll use a desk, shelf or rack.
• Region: the listing says it is made for use in the U.S. and Canada.

The short version

• A 16-port unmanaged Gigabit switch with 8 PoE+ and 8 Ultra60 PoE++ ports.
• NETGEAR rates the total PoE power at 380W, with up to 60W per PoE++ port.
• No software or configuration needed.
• Desktop or rack placement, with mounting hardware included.
• Energy Efficient Ethernet (IEEE 802.3az) and quiet operation.

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