You would need a switch to control the circuit or device.
You would need a switch to control the circuit or device.
I wouldn't rely on networking gear from an unfamiliar brand, like TP-Link, D-Link, Netgear, Linksys, or Cisco. Remember, if a device is produced in a factory with changes meant to spread malware, you might not catch it until it's too late.
Thanks to everyone for your guidance, I decided to go with the 20 euro TP link. In my mind, it was a smart choice because I could invest 208 euros in something I might not use or fully utilize for another year or two. The 20 euro option is 100% of the way there, and if I ever need the full 208, it won’t be an issue. Appreciate all the help! The model that might interest you is the TL-SG108S.
I see Link Aggregation as limiting the ability to share a single TCP/UDP connection across several links or ports. If the requirement is about delivering around 2 gigabits per second for isolated tasks such as backups, I wouldn't anticipate it falling below 1 gigabit for those individual sessions. However, if the focus shifts to handling multiple sessions, LA could provide a practical solution in the meantime rather than immediately upgrading to 2.5 gigabits per second. A smart managed switch with eight ports might cost between $20 and $30, which is roughly five times less than a dedicated 8-port switch offering 2.5 gigabits per second—though this could vary depending on location and availability.