TP-Link LS105G 5-port Gigabit Ethernet switch: features, specs and uses

The TP-Link LS105G is a small five-port Gigabit Ethernet switch. It plugs into one network port, usually on a router, and turns it into five, so that more wired devices such as computers, consoles, TVs and network storage can share the connection. It is an unmanaged switch, which means there is nothing to configure.

What a switch does

A router typically has only a handful of Ethernet ports. A switch extends them. It learns which device sits on which port and sends data only where it is needed, instead of repeating everything to every port as an older hub did. Wired connections are generally more stable and lower in latency than Wi-Fi, which is why people use a switch for desktops, consoles, streaming boxes and media servers.

Gigabit speed and auto-negotiation

Each of the five RJ45 ports supports 10, 100 and 1000Mbps and chooses the right speed automatically. Gigabit is 1000Mbps, enough for most home and small office internet connections. The speed between two devices on the switch can reach gigabit as well, which helps for moving large files to a network drive. Cables matter: Cat5e or better is typically needed for full gigabit speeds.

TP-Link also lists Auto MDI/MDIX, which means the ports adapt to the cable type, so you do not need to think about straight or crossover cables.

Plug and play

The switch needs no setup. TP-Link says you connect it and it works. Connect one port to your router or another switch, plug your devices into the others and power it up.

Metal case and no fan

The case is metal, which TP-Link says gives it a longer life, and it can sit on a desk or be mounted on a wall. There is no fan, so it makes no noise and suits desks, shelves and quiet rooms. It measures about 3.9 x 3.9 x 1.0 inches (10 x 10 x 2.5 cm) and weighs 0.4 lb (about 180 g).

Energy-saving and QoS

TP-Link describes the LS105G as using its Green Technology, which reduces power use, for instance when a port is not connected. The listing also mentions QoS (quality of service) support via 802.1p and DSCP, which lets administrators mark certain traffic as higher priority. This only helps if the other devices on the network use those markings, so most home users will not notice it.

Warranty

TP-Link lists a lifetime warranty for the switch; check the terms for your region.

Who it suits

It suits a home office, a living room with several wired devices, or a workgroup that needs a few extra ports. It is unmanaged, so it is not meant for networks that need VLANs or monitoring. Those require a managed switch.

What to check before you buy

• Number of ports: count your wired devices, including the uplink to the router, and consider spare ports.
• Cables: use Cat5e or better for gigabit.
• Internet speed: a gigabit switch does not make the internet connection itself faster.
• Power: it needs an outlet nearby; check what comes in the box.
• Mounting: if you plan to use it on a wall, check the manual.

The short version

• A five-port unmanaged Gigabit Ethernet switch, model LS105G, from TP-Link.
• 10/100/1000Mbps ports with auto-negotiation and Auto MDI/MDIX.
• Plug and play, with a metal case and no fan.
• QoS (802.1p and DSCP) and energy-saving technology.
• Lifetime warranty as listed.

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