NETGEAR MS305 5-Port 2.5G Switch: features, specs and who it suits

The NETGEAR MS305 is a five-port unmanaged Ethernet switch whose ports run at up to 2.5 Gbps. It suits anyone whose internet connection, network storage or computers have outgrown ordinary Gigabit Ethernet, but who doesn't want to set up a complex managed switch.

What 2.5G ports change

Standard Gigabit Ethernet tops out at 1 Gbps. Multi-Gigabit ports add the in-between 2.5 Gbps speed, which is roughly two and a half times faster. Each port on the MS305 is 1G/2.5G and negotiates automatically with whatever is plugged in, so older Gigabit devices still work. The 2.5G speed typically runs over the same Cat5e cabling many homes and offices already have, which is much of its appeal compared with 10G.

A link only runs at 2.5G when both ends support it. A device with a Gigabit port will connect at 1G. The switch also can't make your internet service faster than the plan you have.

Plug-and-play setup

The MS305 is unmanaged. NETGEAR says there is no software to install and nothing to configure. You connect the power and your devices, and the switch handles the rest. This keeps setup simple, but it also means you don't get features such as VLANs or detailed port controls. For those you would look at a managed switch.

Features for busier networks

NETGEAR lists 802.1p traffic prioritisation and jumbo frame support, so the switch can sit in a network with more sophisticated equipment. LEDs show port activity and speed, which makes it easy to see at a glance which link is running at 2.5G. The switch complies with IEEE 802.3az, the Energy-Efficient Ethernet standard, which reduces power draw when links are idle.

Build and mounting

The switch comes in a metal case and is fanless, so it makes no fan noise. It can sit on a desk or be mounted on a wall. The listing gives its dimensions as about 4.0 x 9.0 x 9.0 in and its weight as 1.8 lb (about 0.8 kg). NETGEAR provides a three-year limited hardware warranty and 24/7 chat support with a NETGEAR expert.

Who it suits

It suits small offices, home offices and home labs adding a few Multi-Gigabit devices, such as a network storage box, a 2.5G router port or a recent desktop or access point. Five ports is enough for a small cluster of such devices. Larger setups may need more ports or a managed model.

What to check before you buy

• Device support: confirm that your router, computers or storage have 2.5G ports, otherwise those links will run at 1G.
• Cabling: use Cat5e or better, and check cable runs are in good condition.
• Ports needed: count your wired devices and leave room to grow.
• Management features: decide whether you need VLANs or monitoring, which an unmanaged switch doesn't offer.
• Region: the listing says it is made for use in the U.S. and Canada only.
• Placement: pick a spot with air around the case and follow the manual for wall mounting.

The short version

• Five-port unmanaged switch, model MS305, with 1G/2.5G Multi-Gigabit ports.
• Plug-and-play: no software and no configuration.
• Fanless metal case for desktop or wall mounting, with port activity and speed LEDs.
• 802.1p prioritisation, jumbo frame support and IEEE 802.3az energy-efficient design.
• Three-year limited hardware warranty; made for use in the U.S. and Canada.

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