NETGEAR JFS524 24-Port Fast Ethernet Switch: features, specs and fit

The NETGEAR JFS524 is an unmanaged switch with 24 Fast Ethernet ports. It adds wired connections for printers, phones, cameras, older computers and other devices that do not need gigabit speed. It can sit on a desk or mount in a rack, and it needs no software or configuration.

Fast Ethernet explained

Fast Ethernet means the ports work at 10 or 100 Mbps. That is about a tenth of gigabit, which is the speed of most current computers and routers. For many everyday devices, 100 Mbps is plenty: VoIP phones, point-of-sale terminals, IP cameras at modest resolutions, printers and building controls typically use a small fraction of that. It is a poorer fit for fast transfers of large files between computers, or for a network that moves a lot of video, where gigabit is the norm.

Each port detects the speed of the connected device. Devices on a 100 Mbps link can't go faster, even if the rest of your network does.

Plug and play

The switch is unmanaged, so there is nothing to install or configure. You connect the power and the cables, and it begins passing traffic. That keeps setup simple, but it also means no VLANs, no port monitoring and no remote settings. If you need those, look for a managed switch.

Desktop or rackmount

NETGEAR says the JFS524 supports desktop or rackmount placement, and that all the necessary mounting hardware is in the box. The listing gives the size as about 13.5 x 7.1 x 4.3 inches and the weight as 3.6 lb (about 1.6 kg). A standard 19-inch rack is the usual choice for the rackmount option, so check the manual for the exact fit and the placement of the brackets.

Fanless and quiet

The fanless design adds no fan noise, which NETGEAR highlights for noise-sensitive places such as offices, classrooms, studios and bedrooms. With no fan, the unit relies on passive cooling, so leave space around it and avoid stacking items on top.

Energy use and durability

NETGEAR says the switch is designed to optimize power usage, and that most models comply with IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet. That standard lets ports go into a low-power state when there is no traffic. The brand also says every NETGEAR switch is tested for reliability, quality and performance, and the product carries ProSAFE Limited Lifetime Protection. Check NETGEAR's terms for what that covers and where.

Who it suits

It suits small offices, shops, classrooms and workshops with many low-bandwidth devices, and anyone who needs to add ports to an older network. It is a sensible fit where noise matters and gigabit is not needed. If you work with large file transfers, a NAS or video editing, gigabit ports will serve you better.

What to check before you buy

• Speed needs: confirm the devices you connect work well at 100 Mbps or less.
• Uplink: the link back to your router also runs at 100 Mbps, which can be a bottleneck for many busy devices.
• No PoE: the switch does not supply power over Ethernet, so cameras and access points need their own power.
• Placement: decide whether you will use it on a desk or in a rack, and leave room for airflow.
• Port count: 24 ports is a lot, so check your real device count.
• Management: if you need VLANs or monitoring, choose a managed model.

The short version

• Unmanaged switch with 24 Fast Ethernet 10/100 Mbps ports.
• Plug and play, with no software or configuration.
• Works on a desk or in a rack, with mounting hardware included.
• Fanless and silent; supports Energy Efficient Ethernet on most models, as NETGEAR states.
• Covered by ProSAFE Limited Lifetime Protection.

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