TP-Link TL-SG116 16-Port Gigabit Switch: features, specs and uses

The TP-Link TL-SG116 is an unmanaged 16-port Gigabit Ethernet switch. It turns one network connection into sixteen, so computers, consoles, TVs, printers and servers can all sit on the same wired network. It needs no software and no configuration.

What a 16-port Gigabit switch does

A switch passes data between the devices plugged into it. Each of the 16 RJ45 ports on the TL-SG116 supports 10/100/1000 Mbps and negotiates its speed automatically, so older and newer devices can share it. Auto MDI/MDIX means you don't have to worry about which kind of cable you have, because the ports adjust themselves. Typically, one port connects to your router and the rest connect to devices.

Plug and play

TP-Link describes setup as plug and play: connect the power, link the ports, and it works with Windows, Mac, Linux and other systems. Because the switch is unmanaged, there is no web page or login, and nothing to maintain.

Traffic features

Even without a management screen, TP-Link lists several traffic features:

• Port-based 802.1p/DSCP QoS, which can prioritise voice or video traffic over other data.
• IGMP snooping, which helps manage multicast traffic such as some streaming and IPTV so it doesn't flood every port.
• IEEE 802.3x flow control, which TP-Link says supports reliable data transfer.

Energy efficiency

TP-Link says the switch uses energy-efficient technology to lower power consumption. In practice, features like this typically reduce power on ports that aren't in use or are connected with short cables.

Metal case, fanless, mountable

The case is metal with shielded ports, and there is no fan, so it runs quietly. It can sit on a desk or be mounted on a wall. The listed size is about 11.3 x 4.4 x 1.0 inches (29 x 11 x 2.5 cm) and it weighs about 2.1 lb (roughly 1 kg). The operating temperature range is 0 to 40°C (32 to 104°F). Because there's no fan, leave room around the case for air to move.

Warranty and support

TP-Link lists a three-year warranty and free technical support during weekday hours, 6am to 6pm Pacific time.

Who it suits

It suits a home office, a shared workspace, or a living room where several wired devices need a connection. It also suits anyone who has run out of ports on their router and wants wired links for a PC, console, TV or network storage drive.

What to check before you buy

• Port count: count the wired devices you have now and add a few for later.
• Speed: a Gigabit switch tops out at 1,000 Mbps per port; check that this matches your needs and your router.
• Power over Ethernet: the listing doesn't mention PoE, so don't count on it powering cameras or access points through the cable.
• Cabling: use Cat5e or better cables for Gigabit speeds.
• Placement: decide whether you want a desk or a wall position, and check that the power cable can reach.

The short version

• Unmanaged 16-port 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet switch, model TL-SG116.
• Fanless metal case with shielded ports, for a desk or a wall.
• QoS, IGMP snooping and flow control included.
• No setup or software needed.
• Three-year warranty, as TP-Link lists it.

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