TRENDnet TEG-S16DG 16-Port Gigabit Switch: fanless metal desktop switch

The TRENDnet TEG-S16DG is an unmanaged Ethernet switch with 16 Gigabit ports. It turns a single network connection into many, so computers, printers, network storage and other wired devices can share a network. It sits on a desk or shelf, needs no software and makes no fan noise.

What an unmanaged switch does

A switch connects wired devices on the same network and passes data only to the port it is meant for. "Unmanaged" means there is nothing to configure: no web page, no VLANs, no login. TRENDnet describes setup as plug and play. You power it up and plug devices in.

Managed switches add features such as traffic prioritisation and network segmentation. If you don't need those, an unmanaged switch is simpler.

Ports and capacity

All 16 ports are Gigabit RJ-45. TRENDnet lists a 32 Gbps switching capacity. That figure is 16 ports x 1 Gbps in each direction, which is the amount needed for every port to run at full speed in both directions at once. TRENDnet says this reduces traffic bottlenecks inside the switch.

A switch can't make your internet connection faster. It connects devices to each other and to a router, and the router link is still the limit for internet traffic.

Fanless metal design

The housing is metal, and TRENDnet says the fanless design eliminates operating noise, which suits bedrooms, studios and offices. Listed dimensions are about 7.0 x 11.0 x 1.7 inches and the weight is about 3.3 lb. An optional rack-mount kit (the ETH 11MK brackets, sold separately) lets it fit a standard equipment rack.

GREENnet power saving

The embedded GREENnet technology lowers port power consumption when there's little traffic on a link. TRENDnet says it reduces power use by up to 70%. That is the brand's figure and depends on how many ports are in use and how busy they are.

Support and compliance

TRENDnet lists lifetime manufacturer protection and English-language support during business hours, for the U.S. and Canada. The listing also states the switch is NDAA and TAA compliant, which matters to buyers supplying government customers. The box contains the switch, a quick installation guide and a 1.8 m (6 ft) power cord.

Who it suits

It suits home offices, small businesses and home labs that need more wired ports than their router offers. It's also useful near a TV or workstation where many cables meet. People who need configuration control, PoE power for cameras or access points, or faster-than-Gigabit ports will typically look at a different type of switch.

What to check before you buy

• Port count: make sure 16 is enough, and leave room for one port as the uplink to your router.
• Speed: all ports are Gigabit; there are no multi-gig or SFP ports listed.
• Power over Ethernet: this listing does not mention PoE, so devices needing PoE will need a separate injector.
• Placement: check there is space for the 7 x 11 inch footprint, or whether you want the rack kit.
• Cabling: Cat5e or better cable is typically used for Gigabit.
• Warranty region: the lifetime terms are stated for the U.S. and Canada.

The short version

• Unmanaged 16-port Gigabit switch, model TEG-S16DG, with 32 Gbps switching capacity.
• Fanless metal housing for silent operation.
• GREENnet reduces power use on idle ports, up to 70% by TRENDnet's figure.
• Plug and play; optional rack-mount brackets sold separately.
• NDAA and TAA compliant; lifetime protection in the U.S. and Canada.

Bloiq is reader-supported. Some links may earn us a commission; it never affects what we write. How we make money.