Affordable yet powerful network switch options are available.
Affordable yet powerful network switch options are available.
I’m searching for a suitable network switch that fits your setup. With just one cable run and a Cat 5E connection, you’ll need something that supports both managed and unmanaged modes. Your current setup uses a 1Gb fiber to the house and an Ethernet cable to the room, which is fine for basic needs but may limit future upgrades. Since your gaming PC won’t be heavily taxed, you can afford a slightly less powerful option. The Apple Airport is functional but not ideal for high-speed demands—consider upgrading to a faster switch if possible. You’re connecting a phone, two Xboxes, a 3D printer (using a Raspberry Pi), and possibly another Pi for future tasks like NAS or VPN. A managed switch would simplify device management and improve security, while an unmanaged one gives more control but requires more setup. If you’re unsure about networking, the guide you linked offers clear steps to help you decide.
A switch is a switch is a switch. There isn’t really a bad vs good switch. You don’t want a managed switch unless you know why you need one (vlans, special routing policy’s, etc), so get unmanaged. Tplink gigabit switches are perfect, and affordable. I have some that have been running for over a decade at this point.
They're pretty basic gadgets. No need for fancy management or POE setups—just a basic price under $20 is enough. You'll get at least gigabit speed. TP-link works well, D-link looks better but still functions. Steer clear of off-brand stuff from Amazon and avoid Best Buy entirely; they tend to charge too much.
As others noted, the unmanaged version has served me well over time. The Cat 5e works at the required speed without needing a new cable.
I've used many off-brand products before, and honestly, they're just like branded ones—switching doesn't change much. There are only a few suppliers I think truly offer switch silicon, so functionally it should be similar. The main concern with off-brand items is if they use faulty capacitors (and maybe the power supplies aren't up to safety standards). Even ServeTheHome suggests checking Aliexpress for off-brand options, especially if you need speeds above 2.5Gbit instead of just Gigabit. I began using trusted brands only when I started managing switches, since dealing with IP introduces a small risk of malware from unknown Chinese manufacturers.