NETGEAR GS724TP 24-Port PoE+ Smart Managed Switch: specs and who it suits

The NETGEAR GS724TP is a 24-port Gigabit Ethernet switch that can power connected devices through the network cable. It is a "smart managed" model, so it has a software interface for setting up and monitoring the network. It suits small offices, shops and homes that run many wired devices, such as access points and cameras.

What the ports do

The switch has 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports, each running at up to 1 Gbps, and two additional 1G SFP ports. SFP slots take small plug-in modules, usually for fibre or for a longer cable run between switches. The listing does not state which modules are supported, so check NETGEAR's documentation.

Power over Ethernet (PoE+)

All 24 copper ports support PoE+, which sends power and data over one cable. PoE+ typically supplies up to 30W per port, enough for items like wireless access points, IP cameras and VoIP phones.

The important figure is the total: NETGEAR gives 190W across the switch. That is less than 24 ports at full PoE+ power, so the switch shares that power among devices. Most such devices use well under their maximum, but add up your devices' power needs and compare them against 190W.

Smart managed software

"Smart managed" sits between a basic unmanaged switch and a fully managed one. NETGEAR says the software interface gives controlled setup, secure access and SNMP management (it names NMS 300). Features of this class typically include VLANs, which split one switch into separate networks, plus port settings, monitoring and quality-of-service controls. Check the product documentation for the exact list.

NETGEAR Insight is optional cloud management for monitoring and configuring the switch remotely. Check what the Insight service requires for your setup.

Desktop or rack

The switch can sit on a desk or fit a standard rack, and NETGEAR says all the mounting hardware is in the box. It measures about 21.0 x 13.6 x 4.0 inches (53 x 35 x 10 cm). The listing shows a weight of 0.9 lb, which looks like a placeholder for a 24-port unit; check the real weight before planning a mount.

Quiet and efficient

NETGEAR describes the operation as quiet and says the design complies with IEEE 802.3az, the Energy-Efficient Ethernet standard, which lowers power use on idle links. Fan noise on PoE switches varies, so consider the room if the switch will sit near people.

Support and region

The listing mentions a lifetime limited hardware warranty, next-business-day replacement and 24/7 chat with NETGEAR. The switch is made for use in the U.S. and Canada only, and the warranty terms are the brand's own, so read them for details.

Who it suits

It suits a business or home network with a lot of PoE devices, such as several access points and cameras on one cabinet, where the owner wants VLANs and remote management.

What to check before you buy

• PoE power: total the watts your devices draw against 190W.
• Port count: confirm that 24 ports plus 2 SFP is enough, with room to grow.
• Speed: the copper ports are Gigabit; check that this matches your needs and your cabling.
• SFP modules: confirm any module you plan to use is supported.
• Placement: choose a rack or well-ventilated shelf, and check the power inlet and cable run.
• Management: decide whether you need Insight, SNMP or VLANs, and check how setup works.
• Region: it is made for the U.S. and Canada, so check this suits where you live.

The short version

• 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports plus 2 x 1G SFP, in a smart managed switch.
• All 24 ports are PoE+, sharing 190W of total PoE power.
• Optional NETGEAR Insight cloud management and SNMP support.
• Desktop or rackmount, with mounting hardware included.
• IEEE 802.3az energy-efficient design and a lifetime limited hardware warranty, as NETGEAR states.

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