NETGEAR GS524PP 24-Port PoE+ Gigabit Switch: specs, 300W PoE power and fit

The NETGEAR GS524PP is a 24-port Gigabit Ethernet switch where every port can also supply power to connected devices. It is an unmanaged model, so there is nothing to configure: you plug it in, connect cables and it works. NETGEAR positions it for powering and connecting VoIP phones, wireless access points, IP cameras and other IoT devices.

What PoE+ does

Power over Ethernet (PoE) sends electrical power along the same network cable that carries data. That means a ceiling access point or a camera needs only one cable, with no nearby power outlet or separate adapter. PoE+ is the IEEE 802.3at standard, which lets each port supply up to 30W, more than the earlier 15.4W PoE standard. Many cameras and access points work on standard PoE, while some higher-power devices need PoE+.

The 300W power limit

The key number is the total PoE power, which NETGEAR lists as 300W across the 24 PoE+ ports. That limit is shared. If you divide 300W by 24 ports, each gets an average of 12.5W, so you could not run 24 devices that each draw the full 30W. Most phones and many cameras use well under that, so a full set of lower-power devices fits comfortably. Add up the power draw of the devices you plan to connect and compare the total with 300W.

Gigabit ports and unmanaged setup

Each of the 24 ports runs at Gigabit Ethernet speed (1000 Mbps), a typical speed for office and home networks. NETGEAR describes setup as plug-and-play, with no software to install. An unmanaged switch lacks features such as VLANs and traffic prioritisation, which you would find on managed switches. For a simple network, that is often an advantage, because there is less to set up.

Desktop or rackmount

The switch can sit on a desk or be installed in a standard rack, and NETGEAR says the mounting hardware is included. It measures 15.4 inches wide and 1.7 inches tall (the listing doesn't give a depth) and weighs 6.4 lb (about 2.9 kg). A 1.7-inch height corresponds to one rack unit. NETGEAR describes the switch as quiet, but check the manual about fan noise if it will sit in a quiet room.

Energy use and support

The design is compliant with IEEE 802.3az, which reduces power use on links that are idle. NETGEAR offers a limited lifetime hardware warranty, next business day replacement and 24/7 chat with a NETGEAR expert. Read the warranty terms on the maker's site for exact conditions.

Who it suits

It suits small offices, shops, workshops and home setups with many PoE devices, such as a set of IP cameras, several access points or a phone system. If you want to manage VLANs or monitor traffic, look at managed models.

What to check before you buy

• Power: total your devices' wattage against the 300W limit, and check that each device needs no more than PoE+.
• Standards: confirm your devices support 802.3af or 802.3at PoE.
• Cabling: use suitable Ethernet cable, and check maximum cable length for your devices.
• Placement: decide on desk or rack, and leave room for ventilation.
• Region: the listing says it is made for use in the US and Canada only.
• Uplink: check how it will connect to your router or other switches.

The short version

• A 24-port Gigabit unmanaged switch.
• All 24 ports are PoE+ with 300W of total PoE power.
• Plug-and-play, with desktop or rackmount use and hardware included.
• IEEE 802.3az energy-efficient design.
• Limited lifetime hardware warranty; made for use in the US and Canada.

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