Cisco Industrial Switch – Selecting the Right Network Equipment

 

Knowing the different kinds of network switches will make it easier for you to pick the right product that suits your business requirements. When it comes to options, you might want to explore the Cisco industrial switch selection. This guide will help you make an informed choice for your network:

 

Modular and fixed configuration switches

 

As you do your homework, you are likely to come across fixed-configuration and modular switches. The latter makes it easier to add expansion modules as required, and that makes it ideal for accommodating changing network requirements down the line. Expansion modules are specific to certain applications and include those for network analysis, wireless connectivity, and firewalls, as well as additional interfaces like cooling fans and power supplies.

 

On the other hand, a fixed configuration switch has only a set number of ports and it is usually not expandable. It includes smart, unmanaged, and managed switches.

 

• Smart switches – If you go for this Cisco industrial switch, you can get some segmentation and management, security capabilities, and quality performance. These features make them cost-effective alternatives to modular switches, but keep in mind that they may not be as scalable as managed switches. So, they may be suitable at the edge of a bigger network, with managed switches at the core, low complexity networks, or for smaller networks.
  
  
• Managed switches – These provide full set of features for optimum application experience, precise network management and control, greater scalability, and top-notch security.
  
  
• Unmanaged switches – Plug-and-play, and best for basic connectivity. That said, they are most practical only when you need basic connectivity and switching, making them more appropriate for home networks, conference rooms, labs, or an individual desk.

 

Consider the features

 

Most models of the Cisco industrial switch are scalable, but you still need to look into your current network requirements when designing your network, while making sure that your equipment can accommodate network growth, especially in an enterprise.

 

You need to know the switch options on the Cisco industrial switch, particularly the number of ports, network switch speeds, stacking capabilities, and power-over-Ethernet features. Network administrators should also consider the switch form factor in relation to the features.