Another comparable 2.5GbE switch is available.
Another comparable 2.5GbE switch is available.
My older TP-Link SG1008D is nearing its end of life. It occasionally couldn't reach full 1GbE even without a 100 Mb/s device. Finding a true 2.5GbE option is tough—ethernet ports are at the back while activity indicators sit front. The nearest match is the DLink DMS-106XT, but it's out of stock or very expensive. I prefer a model with eight ports, which matches my setup (supports 8, with 1+7), and it can handle three devices: two PCs and one Deco X20. I’m aware the main bottleneck is still the router (gigabit) and my ISP plan (600 Mb/s). For internal transfers, speeds can hit 120-125 MB/s if both PCs are using SSDs. The router will be upgraded later to a BE550 Pro to support 10GbE WAN and 2.5GbE LANs. Should I also consider upgrading my ISP plan to accommodate higher speeds?
Check Amazon for "10 port 2.5Gbe switch" and you'll find options like an 8x 2.5Gbe plus 2x 10G SFP ports, usually around £60. I own one that performs well without any fan noise. This setup is handy because you can add more ports later using a budget 10G SFP cable instead of relying on a 2.5Gbe port. If your router supports SFP, linking it too is straightforward. I got mine for about £45 during a sale, and I didn’t let brand names deter me. Focus on reviews that cover long-term use rather than just the label. If you prefer higher-end brands, go for it—just be aware of the price difference. I went with my switch mainly because it offered more ports than some branded models at roughly half the cost.
The focus isn't mainly on the branding but rather on the rear ports and front indicators found in consumer switches.
Trendnet TEG-S380 appears suitable at around $100. The concept of a quicker WAN supporting many slower clients is no longer relevant in residential settings. You're more likely to get 10gbps from local sources for the web and rarely see four devices simultaneously using 2.5Gbps to overload a 10Gb connection. These 10Gbps ports are typically used between rooms—modem and a switch with dual 10Gbps ports, then additional switches feeding 2.5Gbps devices for seamless communication. Many modern routers mark their slowest port as WAN.
Sure, I understand. The branding often comes up when discussing these devices. All the 2.5Gbe switches I own have ports on the same side as the power, and the indicators are only visible on the ports themselves. Since I don’t focus much on those details, not seeing the indicators doesn’t affect my setup.
That's an ancient design I've only ever seen on a few spare switches at the office. Is this really a deal breaker? I'd always trust a run of iperf (or just a big file transfer) over the status lights.
It could serve as a useful addition in a personal space like a bookshelf or desk. At least trendnet strikes a balance between something you'd keep at home and something you'd place behind the TV; it features 8 2.5Gb ports housed in the standard black enclosures we're familiar with, with front lights visible.
The current arrangement has all the Ethernet cables positioned at the rear, which means straight cables are used. I prefer avoiding mixing cables. According to what I understand, front indicators aren't necessary if ports are placed at the back. A Ubiquiti switch satisfies the physical requirements, like US-8-60W, though it supports 1 Gbe.