Ubiquiti USW-Lite-8-PoE Network Switch: what it is and who it suits

The Ubiquiti USW-Lite-8-PoE is a compact network switch from Ubiquiti Networks. The model name points to eight ports and Power over Ethernet, which means it can link wired devices together and supply power to some of them through the same cable. It is a small piece of networking hardware for a home office, a small business or a shelf in a wiring cupboard.

The listing gives very little detail beyond the model name, so this page explains what the name signals and what to confirm in Ubiquiti's own datasheet.

What a network switch does

A switch connects wired devices on the same local network: computers, printers, network storage, access points and cameras. It passes traffic only to the port where the destination device sits, instead of broadcasting everything everywhere, so a busy network stays orderly. A switch typically connects back to a router, which handles the connection to the internet.

What Power over Ethernet adds

Power over Ethernet, or PoE, sends electrical power along the same network cable that carries the data. A device that supports it, such as a wireless access point, an IP camera or a VoIP phone, needs just one cable to the switch, with no power adapter and no nearby outlet. That makes it easier to put a device on a ceiling or an outside wall.

PoE comes in several standards, usually written 802.3af, 802.3at (PoE+) and 802.3bt, which allow progressively more power per port. A switch also has a total power allowance shared across all its PoE ports. Both numbers matter: the device you connect must be compatible with the standard, and the combined draw of everything plugged in must stay within that allowance. Check these two details in the datasheet before you plan a setup.

The "Lite 8" in the name

Ubiquiti's naming suggests a lighter, smaller model in its UniFi switch range, with eight ports in total. In many switches of this kind, only some ports supply PoE while the rest are ordinary data ports. The listing does not say how many ports are PoE, so confirm that against the specifications.

The listed size is about 6.5 x 3.9 x 1.3 inches (16.5 x 9.9 x 3.3 cm), and the weight is 1.6 lb (about 0.7 kg). That is small enough to sit on a desk or mount in a tidy spot.

Managing the switch

Ubiquiti's UniFi products are generally managed through the company's own controller software, which shows devices, ports and settings in one place. If you already run UniFi equipment, a switch from the same family typically slots into that view. If you do not, check how the switch is set up and managed, and what software or account it needs, in the manufacturer's documentation.

Who it suits

It suits a small network that needs a few wired connections and one or two PoE devices, such as an access point or camera, and anyone building around other UniFi equipment. A larger site with many PoE devices may need more ports or a bigger power allowance.

What to check before you buy

• PoE ports and power: confirm how many ports provide power and the total wattage available.
• PoE standard: make sure your access points or cameras use a standard the switch supplies.
• Port speed: check the speed of each port against your devices and your router.
• Power source: check how the switch itself is powered and what cable or adapter is in the box.
• Management: check what software it needs, and whether it fits your existing network gear.
• Mounting: check whether it sits on a desk, wall or rack, and what brackets are included.

The short version

• A compact Ubiquiti switch whose model name indicates eight ports and PoE.
• PoE carries power and data on one cable to devices such as access points and cameras.
• Total PoE power and the number of PoE ports are the key figures to confirm.
• About 6.5 x 3.9 x 1.3 inches and 1.6 lb.
• Best matched to a small network, especially one built on UniFi gear.

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