TRENDnet TEG-S380 8-Port Unmanaged 2.5G Switch: features, specs and uses

The TRENDnet TEG-S380 is an eight-port unmanaged network switch whose ports all run at up to 2.5 gigabits per second. It lets you connect computers, access points, storage and other wired devices at a speed above standard Gigabit Ethernet, without replacing the cabling you already have.

What 2.5G ports mean

Each of the eight ports is a 2.5GBASE-T RJ-45 port that supports 100Mbps, 1Gbps and 2.5Gbps. TRENDnet says the ports reach 2.5Gbps over existing Cat5e or better cabling, which is the point of the 2.5G standard (IEEE 802.3bz, which the switch is listed as complying with). Faster speeds over older cable avoid the cost of re-cabling a building, though cable quality and length still affect results.

The switch is also backward compatible with 1000Mbps devices. A device negotiates the best speed both ends support, so you can mix older gigabit devices with 2.5G ones. Only connections where both ends support 2.5G run at that speed.

Switching capacity

TRENDnet lists a 40Gbps switching capacity. With eight ports at 2.5Gbps in each direction, the total possible traffic is 40Gbps (8 x 2.5 x 2), so this figure suggests the switch can handle all ports at full speed at once without a bottleneck in the switch itself.

Unmanaged: plug and play

An unmanaged switch has no settings to configure. You plug devices in and it forwards traffic, with LED indicators showing activity. That is simple, but it has no VLANs, port monitoring or traffic prioritisation. If you need those, look for a managed switch.

Fanless and metal housing

TRENDnet says the fanless design lowers energy use and removes operating noise, which is useful in a living space, home office or studio. The switch has a durable metal housing and is wall-mountable, with a size of about 9.4 x 4.0 x 1.0 inches (24 x 10 x 2.5 cm). Leave some space around it for ventilation, as the manual describes.

Support and compliance

TRENDnet lists Lifetime Manufacturer Protection, available in the U.S. and Canada only, and English-speaking technical support during normal business hours. The switch is described as NDAA and TAA compliant, also for the U.S. and Canada, which matters mainly to government customers.

Who it suits

It suits homes and small offices with 2.5G-capable computers, network storage, Wi-Fi access points or a faster internet connection who want an upgrade from Gigabit. It also works as an extra port expander.

What to check before you buy

• Device speeds: only devices with 2.5G ports benefit. Many older machines have gigabit ports.
• Cabling: use Cat5e or better, and check the length of your runs.
• Uplink: your router needs a 2.5G port for the full speed to reach the internet side.
• Features: an unmanaged switch has no VLANs or other configuration.
• Power and placement: check the power adapter and where to mount or place it.
• Regional terms: the protection and compliance details apply to the U.S. and Canada.

The short version

• An 8-port unmanaged switch, model TEG-S380, with 2.5GBASE-T ports (100Mbps, 1Gbps and 2.5Gbps).
• 40Gbps switching capacity and IEEE 802.3bz compliance.
• Fanless metal housing that can be wall-mounted.
• Plug and play, with no management features.

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