Managed Switch Vs Unmanaged Switch -Which one is best network switch? VERSITRON INC
What is Managed Switch? A managed network switch is a device that allows Ethernet devices to communicate and interact with one another within the same network. Managed switches provide the tools necessary for configuring and monitoring traffic on a Local Area Network (LAN).They also allow for seamless communication between Ethernet and Fiber Optic devices no matter where the equipment is located.
What is Unmanaged Switch? Unmanaged switches are basic “plug-and-play” style devices that allow a user to connect multiple Ethernet and Fiber Optic devices with ease. With an unmanaged switch, setup time is greatly reduced due to the simplistic nature of the devices. The fixed configuration provided by these switches is great for smaller networks. It provides you cost-effective solution with fiber and ethernet devices communication configuration.
Key Differences Between Managed vs Unmanaged Switches The key differences between a managed and unmanaged switch lies in its approach. A managed network switch provides flexibility to the network administrator to control, manage, and prioritize the LAN traffic. However, an unmanaged switch works like a plug and play switch which allows devices on the LAN to communicate with each other, without user intervention. The following points will help you to understand the key differences
Managed switches allow users to manage, configure and monitor the LAN. Unmanaged switches are easy to use but comes with fixed configuration Freedom of Configuration: Unmanaged network switches are plug and play type switches. They have easy setup and utility. Managed network switches allow you to manage the performance by prioritizing the channels. Performance Management: Unmanaged switches have basic security features such as lockable port cover that ensures basic security. Managed Switches have advanced security features that help identify active threats. Security Features: The unmanaged network switches are available in affordable price ranges The managed switches are available in higher price ranges owing to their advanced features. Costs:
1 Scalability Is the business and the network expected to grow in the future? If yes, perhaps, you may need a couple of managed network switches that are manually configurable and allow scalability. 2 3 Performance If you are a startup business, and wish to minimize the upfront investments, then the unmanaged switch is a better option. However, if you have to transfer a large amount of data on a regular basis then managed switches can do justice. Security Although limited data is being transferred across the network, the information may be sensitive, and you do not want it to be tampered. In this case, managed switches are the best option. How to Choose Between the Managed and Unmanaged Network Switch