Netgear ProSAFE GS116 16-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch: features and use

The Netgear ProSAFE GS116 is an unmanaged Gigabit Ethernet switch, a box that lets you connect many wired devices to one network. You plug computers, printers, network storage and other equipment into it, and it passes traffic between them and your router. It is part of Netgear's ProSAFE series, which the brand describes as built for businesses.

What an unmanaged switch does

A switch learns which device sits on each port and forwards data only where it needs to go. "Unmanaged" means there is no settings screen or software to configure: you plug it in and it works. That keeps setup simple. The trade-off is that you don't get options such as VLANs, port monitoring or detailed controls that managed switches offer. Netgear describes the ProSAFE unmanaged series as a way for businesses to expand networks to Gigabit speeds and higher port counts.

Speed: 10/100/1000Mbps

The ports are listed at 10/100/1000Mbps. That means each port negotiates automatically with whatever it is connected to, from older 10 or 100Mbps equipment up to Gigabit. The model number suggests 16 ports, in line with the "GS116" name, but the listing text itself doesn't state the port count, so confirm it with Netgear. The speed you actually see depends on the cables, the devices and the connection to your router.

Traffic prioritization and jumbo frames

Two features are listed for working with more sophisticated networks:

• 802.1p traffic prioritization: a standard that tags traffic by priority, so time-sensitive data such as voice calls can be handled ahead of bulk transfers, if the other equipment supports it.
• Jumbo frame support: larger-than-standard Ethernet packets, which can reduce overhead for large file transfers, typically between storage devices or servers. Every device along the path needs to support them.

Build and efficiency

Netgear says the switches are energy efficient, built to last and rigorously tested for the reliability businesses need. The listing gives the dimensions as 11.2 x 4.1 x 1.1 inches and the weight as 2.0 lb. That is a slim desktop form factor, which can sit on a shelf or desk. The series also includes rackmount models, so check which version you are getting.

Who it suits

It suits small offices, home offices and workshops with a mix of wired equipment: desktop computers, printers, network storage, IP cameras, or a home lab. It is also a simple way to turn one router port into many. Anyone who needs VLANs, remote management or powering devices over Ethernet would need to look at managed or Power over Ethernet switches, which the listing doesn't describe for this model.

What to check before you buy

• Port count: confirm the number of ports with Netgear, and plan for growth.
• Power: check the power adapter that comes with it and where the nearest outlet is.
• Placement: keep it ventilated, and follow the manual on mounting.
• Cables: use Cat5e or better cabling to get Gigabit speeds.
• Needs: this model is unmanaged, with no power over Ethernet listed.
• Uplink: connect it to the router with a single cable to avoid loops.

The short version

• An unmanaged Gigabit Ethernet switch from the Netgear ProSAFE series.
• 10/100/1000Mbps ports that negotiate speed automatically.
• 802.1p traffic prioritization and jumbo frame support.
• Slim desktop design of 11.2 x 4.1 x 1.1 inches and 2.0 lb.
• Plug-and-play, with no configuration needed.

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