While regular switches can be made PoE ready, as noted above, there are some distinct advantages to using a PoE switch. Here are a few:

• Flexible: PDs that PoE powers can be located almost anywhere—even in hard-to-reach areas that are not close to an electrical outlet.
• Sound Performance: PoE switches have state-of-the-art features such as high-performance hardware and software, auto-sensing to determine if a PD is PoE-enable or not, and network security.
• Cost-Effective: With a PoE switch, there is no need to purchase extra electrical wiring or install additional outlets. Ethernet cables cost less and can be installed without the need for an expensive electrician.
• Power Conservation: A PoE switch can determine the power supply needs of a PD and delivers only the amount required, eliminating power waste and saving money.
• Future Proof: New PoE devices flood the market daily. The integration of PoE switches into your network infrastructure enables cutting-edge devices and will ultimately enhance your business posture.

There are three basic types of PoE switches: the unmanaged PoE switch, the smart (or hybrid) PoE switch, and the managed PoE switch. Deciding which of these is best suited for your specific needs and budget can feel overwhelming. Our goal is to simplify this process as much as possible by cutting through some of the complexity. Let’s begin.
The Unmanaged PoE Switch
Unmanaged PoE switches are basic, plug-and-play devices with no remote configuration, management, or monitoring options. These switches are recommended for home or small networks or can add temporary groups of systems to an extensive network. These switches have a built-in Quality of Service (QoS) service to ensure they work well. Unmanaged switches have basic security measures, such as a lockable port cover to ensure the device is not tampered with. However, an unmanaged PoE switch is never recommended for networks that handle sensitive information. As this is a basic, no-frills device, it is also the least expensive.
The Smart (Hybrid) PoE Switch
Smart PoE switches offer a “lite” version of network management, QoS, and security functions. Security levels include 502.1x endpoint authentication and, in some cases, a limited number of access control lists (ACLs). However, these switches cannot monitor or troubleshoot and cannot be accessed remotely. Smart switches are best suited for simple networks or at the edge of a large network where managed switches are the core infrastructure.
The Managed PoE Switch
A managed PoE switch provides the most comprehensive levels of management, configuration, and security available. These devices have features such as user traffic prioritization, network partitioning, the ability to connect to different types of networks, and traffic monitoring. Managed PoE switches provide QoS that is far beyond any offered by an unmanaged or smart PoE switch.

Security measures include:

• Private virtual local area networks (VLANS)
• Secure management (through SCP, Web-based Authentication, Radius/TACAS AAA, etc.)
• Control Plane Policing (CoPP)
• Rich support for 802.1x

The managed PoE switch is best used for business networks and data centers. We strongly recommend the purchase of a managed PoE switch whenever your budget allows.

All PoE switches do not work with all PDs. You must ensure that you purchase a switch that will work with your devices. Here’s what to look for:

• Be sure the PoE switch supports the same PoE standard required by your PDs. For example, if your PDs use the PoE+ standard, then your PoE switch must be PoE+, too.
• Confirm that the power supply modes of the switch and the PD are the same. If a PD is designed for PoE mode A, but the PoE switch you are looking at is designed for mode B, they will not work together.
• Make sure your PDs are not locked into working only with PSEs produced by a specific manufacturer.