TP-Link TL-SG3452P 48-Port Gigabit PoE+ Managed Switch: specs explained

The TP-Link JetStream TL-SG3452P is a rack-sized managed switch for larger networks. It offers 48 gigabit ports that can power devices over the cable, plus four SFP slots for fibre or other high-speed uplinks. It is designed for offices, schools, shops and sites with many cameras, phones or wireless access points.

Ports and PoE power

The switch has 48 PoE+ (802.3at/af) 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ45 ports, each providing up to 30W, and four gigabit SFP slots. TP-Link gives a total PoE power of 384W. Powering all 48 ports at 30W would need 1,440W, so the 384W total is shared. Most cameras, phones and access points use far less than 30W, so the total typically covers a large number of them, but it is worth adding up your real devices.

SFP slots take small plug-in modules, usually for fibre links to other switches or buildings over longer distances than copper allows.

What L2+ managed means

A managed switch lets you configure how traffic flows. "L2+" means a layer 2 switch with some layer 3 features, here static routing, which routes internal traffic between networks for more efficient use of resources. TP-Link lists these management methods: web interface, command line (console port, Telnet, SSH), SNMP and RMON, plus dual firmware images.

Security features

TP-Link lists 802.1Q VLAN, IP-MAC-port binding, ACL, port security, DoS defence, storm control, DHCP snooping and 802.1X RADIUS authentication. In general, these help separate groups of devices, limit who can connect and keep faulty or unwanted traffic from affecting the rest of the network.

Omada SDN and cloud access

The switch works with TP-Link's Omada Software Defined Networking platform, which brings switches, access points and gateways under one interface, using a hardware or software controller. The brand also describes cloud access and the Omada app for managing sites remotely. Standalone mode works without a controller.

TP-Link notes that SDN controllers work only with SDN access points, switches and gateways, so check your other devices' firmware and details on the TP-Link website.

PoE auto recovery and warranty

PoE auto recovery detects an unresponsive powered device and restarts it. The switch also supports IPv6. TP-Link provides a five-year warranty and free technical support from 6am to 6pm PST, Monday to Friday.

Size and installation

The listing gives 17.3 x 13.0 x 1.7 inches (about 44 x 33 x 4.3 cm) and 12.7 lb (about 5.8 kg). The 17.3-inch width matches a standard 19-inch rack format, so it is typically installed in a rack or cabinet. Check the manual for mounting hardware.

Who it suits

It suits network administrators and small organisations that need many powered ports with VLANs and central management, such as for a camera system or a floor of access points and phones.

What to check before you buy

• PoE total: add up your devices' power draw against the 384W total and the 30W per-port limit.
• Controller compatibility: if you plan to use Omada, check your other equipment.
• Rack space and cooling: confirm the rack, ventilation and the switch's noise level suit the room.
• Uplinks: decide whether you will use the SFP slots and which modules you need.
• Skills: a managed switch needs configuration, so check you are comfortable with the setup.
• Cabling: use suitable Ethernet cable lengths for PoE.

The short version

• A 48-port gigabit L2+ managed PoE+ switch from TP-Link, model TL-SG3452P.
• 48 PoE+ ports (30W each, 384W total) and four SFP slots.
• Static routing, VLANs, ACL, 802.1X, SNMP, SSH and more.
• Omada SDN and cloud management; standalone mode also available.
• Five-year warranty.

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