TP-Link TL-SG3428X-M2 24-Port 2.5G Managed Switch: features and specs

The TP-Link TL-SG3428X-M2 is a managed network switch for connecting many wired devices at multi-gigabit speeds. It has 24 ports running at up to 2.5 Gbps and four 10 Gbps SFP+ slots, in a standard rack-width case. It is aimed at offices, studios and larger homes upgrading beyond ordinary gigabit. Here is what its specs mean.

24 ports at 2.5 Gbps

Each of the 24 RJ45 ports supports 2.5GBASE-T. That's 2.5 times the speed of ordinary gigabit Ethernet, and typically it runs over existing Cat5e cabling, which is why 2.5G is a popular upgrade step. Many newer Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7 access points, mini PCs and NAS units have 2.5G ports, and a port like this lets them run faster than 1 Gbps. Ports are generally backwards compatible with 1 Gbps and slower devices.

10G SFP+ uplinks

Four SFP+ slots carry 10 Gbps. They accept modules or direct-attach cables, so you can link to another switch, a server or a NAS over fibre or copper. TP-Link says they give a "10G lightning-fast uplink" and non-blocking switching capacity. In general, non-blocking means the switch fabric can handle all ports at full speed at once. The SFP+ modules and cables are chosen separately, so check what you need.

Managed, L2+ and VLANs

A managed switch lets you configure how traffic moves, unlike an unmanaged switch that simply forwards it. The "L2+" label means that in addition to Layer 2 switching, it supports static routing, which TP-Link says helps route internal traffic more efficiently between networks.

The listed security features include 802.1Q VLANs (splitting a network into separate virtual segments), IP-MAC-Port binding, ACLs, port security, DoS defence, storm control, DHCP snooping and 802.1X RADIUS authentication. These matter most in offices or homes where you want to separate guests, cameras and work devices.

Omada SDN and cloud management

The switch works with TP-Link's Omada software-defined networking platform, which brings switches, access points and gateways into one interface. The listing mentions an Omada hardware controller, a software controller or a cloud-based controller; contact TP-Link for cloud plan details. Standalone mode also works, so you can use the switch without any controller. The Omada app offers remote management from a single interface.

Warranty and size

The listing states a five-year manufacturer warranty, and TP-Link mentions free 24/7 technical support. The switch measures 17.3 x 7.1 x 1.7 inches and weighs 5.0 lb (about 2.3 kg), which is a standard 19-inch, 1U rack width. Rack ears are typically included, but check the box contents.

Who it suits

It suits small offices, creative studios, home labs and larger homes with 2.5G access points, NAS units or workstations. If most of your devices are gigabit, a switch like this gives headroom rather than an immediate speed gain.

What to check before you buy

• Device ports: count how many of your devices actually have 2.5G ports.
• Cabling: Cat5e or better is generally used for 2.5G, but check cable quality and run length.
• SFP+ modules: decide what you will plug into the four uplinks and buy the right modules or cables.
• Management: check whether you will use Omada, and whether you need a controller.
• Noise and cooling: managed switches usually have fans; check the manual for the noise level and placement.
• Rack or shelf: confirm you have a rack or a shelf with proper ventilation.

The short version

• TP-Link TL-SG3428X-M2: a 24-port 2.5G L2+ managed switch.
• Four 10G SFP+ slots and non-blocking switching.
• VLANs, ACLs, 802.1X and other security features.
• Omada SDN support, with standalone mode as well.
• Five-year manufacturer warranty, as listed.

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