Ubiquiti EdgeSwitch 5XP ES-5XP 5-Port PoE Switch: specs and who it suits

The Ubiquiti EdgeSwitch 5XP (model ES-5XP) is a five-port Gigabit managed switch that can also supply passive PoE to connected devices. It is a small unit for networks that need more control than a basic unmanaged switch offers. Here is what the listing says and what that means.

A managed switch in a small case

A managed switch lets you configure how traffic moves through it, rather than simply passing it along. Ubiquiti lists a graphical interface that it describes as designed for efficient setup and control, covering advanced Layer 2 features. The features it names are:

• Port monitoring
• System connection and management services
• Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN) configuration
• Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) and Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP)
• Jumbo frame support
• Ping Watchdog
• Configurable alerts

In general, VLANs split one physical network into separate logical ones, for example to keep cameras away from office computers. Spanning tree prevents loops when switches are connected in a ring. Jumbo frames let devices send larger packets, which can help certain storage or backup traffic. Ping Watchdog typically checks that a device is responding and can restart its power if it is not.

Passive PoE at 24V

The specifications list five ports with 24V passive PoE. Passive PoE differs from the IEEE 802.3af/at standard. It supplies a fixed voltage without negotiating with the device first, so it should only be connected to equipment designed for that voltage. The description also notes that the larger 8XP and 16XP models in the series can power 24V or 48V devices through software-selectable output control, which is not described for the 5XP. Check the Ubiquiti documentation for exactly what the ES-5XP supports.

Build and design

Ubiquiti describes the EdgeSwitch XP series as purpose-built with robust mechanicals for industrial use and a clean industrial design. It also claims carrier-class reliability. The listing gives the item size as about 2.0 x 4.0 x 8.0 inches and a weight of roughly 1.5 to 1.6 lb. The country of origin is China.

Who it suits

The ES-5XP fits small, managed setups such as a compact wiring point powering a few compatible wireless or camera devices, where VLANs and monitoring matter more than port count. It is less suited to anyone who just wants plug-and-play with standard PoE.

What to check before you buy

• PoE type: confirm your devices accept 24V passive PoE and not standard 802.3af/at.
• Wrong voltage: connecting a device that expects a different voltage can damage it. Follow the manual and local electrical codes.
• Power supply: check how the switch is powered and what comes in the box.
• Management skills: a managed switch needs some networking knowledge to set up.
• Port count: five ports fill quickly, so plan for expansion.
• Firmware: check Ubiquiti's current software notes for the model.

The short version

• A five-port Gigabit managed switch from Ubiquiti, model ES-5XP.
• Supplies 24V passive PoE, not standard 802.3af/at.
• Layer 2 features include VLANs, STP/RSTP, jumbo frames, Ping Watchdog and alerts.
• Graphical web interface for management.
• Compact, with robust construction according to Ubiquiti.

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