- Gigabyte Network & Wireless Cards Drivers
- Gigabyte Wireless Lan Card Driver 802.11 B G
- Gigabyte Network & Wireless Cards Drivers
- Gigabyte Wireless Lan Card Driver Windows 7
Finalviews.com receive some form of compensation from the links on this page, at no extra charge to you. Learn more.
A gigabit switch is an inexpensive and solid investment that you can make for protecting your home network. It assists in directing the connection to a variety of home network wired devices, including computers, printers, etc. However, the talk of the town is “which one is best Gigabit switch for home network.” Worry not, this query will be addressed in this post along with providing tons of useful information.
A Gigabit Ethernet switch is a brilliant option for boost the wired home connection even to the 1,000 Mbps data rate in a theatrical way. Let’s stick with us until the end so that you will end up gaining tons of information.
A Gigabit Ethernet switch is an essential device that you can add in your home network for directing the network’s bandwidth. It can adequately support 10, 100, and 1,000 Mbps data rate that brings stability and reliability in a network. It is 1,000 mega bits, not 1,000 megabytes. There are eight bits in a single byte, so let’s do the math: 1,000,000,000 bits divided by 8 bits = 125,000,000 bytes. There are about a million bytes in. Today's networks are faster than ever before, greatly expanding our connectivity potential. To make sure you're up to speed, you'll need to make sure your hardware and software are up to standard. Gigabit Ethernet refers to the new standard of wired networking technology. It's much faster than its predecessor, FastEthernet. GIGABYTE LAN Optimizer is designed to allow the user to manage different types of network traffic so that data streams such as HD media, web browsing or online gaming can be prioritized, taking precedence over large data downloads that tend to strangle overall network bandwidth. TP-Link 10/100/1000Mbps Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express Network Card (TG-3468), PCIE Network Adapter, Network Card, Ethernet Card for PC, Win10 supported 4.6 out of 5 stars 6,127 $14.99 $ 14. 99 $19.99 $19.99.
What is Gigabit Ethernet switch and why do you need it?
A Gigabit Ethernet switch is an essential device that you can add in your home network for directing the network’s bandwidth. It can adequately support 10, 100, and 1,000 Mbps data rate that brings stability and reliability in a network. They can be used for connecting a variety of devices that include game systems, computers, and servers to LAN. That’s not all; it boosts devices such as DVRs and HDTVs for connecting to the internet without any need to worry about the internet connection. It has a solid ability to boost the speed of data transfer that causes quicker response and a good frame rate. In simple words, the Gigabit Ethernet switches are made for expanding the capacity of the network through additional ports.
Another common query that we received from readers is why we should buy a gigabit switch. Is it beneficial to invest in this device? The majority of routers come with an Ethernet switch, but there are many cases when connection ports aren’t enough for the needs of people’s needs. On top of that, one has to connect devices located away from the router.
Gigabyte Network & Wireless Cards Drivers
In that case, you have to buy a Gigabit Ethernet switch that comes with ports ranging from five ports and go up to 24 ports. Having a gigabit switch will let you connect devices to a network where connection usually made to the Wi-Fi. Furthermore, they are more reliable and quicker when compared with the traditional wireless connection.
What are the different types of Ethernet switches available in the market?
The switches are available in a great variety of variants in the market. The relevant switch is used according to the number of devices types of networks. The most convincing and affordable choice for expanding the network is using the basic fiber optic Gigabit switch. It is the most incredible choice to make for small and medium environments to boost network efficiency. When it comes to home use, an 8-port Gigabit switch is perfect to choose from. Let’s check out, the major types of Ethernet Switches available in the market.
Unmanaged Switch
It is the most common type of switches used by the homeowners and small business organizations. The Unmanaged model is a basic switch that doesn’t demand any user configuration and can be set up quite easily. The people who only look to add some additional Ethernet ports should think about buying these types of switches.
The main purpose of users behind installing this unit is to make a connection of devices with each other. It can be connecting a computer with a laptop or even a printer. Furthermore, they don’t demand too much maintenance, and that’s why known as unmanaged switches.
Managed Switches
There are many instances where the users have to customize the switch to boost the functionality in a network. For such conditions, the managed switches are highly recommended by our team. They not boost the functionality, but also assist in monitoring and adjusting certain aspects like speed.
Additionally, this type of switch monitors traffic and help in reporting any network activity. It is costlier than unmanaged switches but provides much-better flexibility to the system. They are further divided into two types, i.e., smart switches and enterprise switches. The smart switches come with a limited set of features and give liberty to do customizations for basic settings. On the other hand, the enterprise switches equipped with a solid variety of management features. Additionally, they also can fix, copy, and transform the network configurations.
Stackable Switch
It can be defined as a network switch that can work alone without any dependence on the other. However, this type of switches can also work in a partnership with other network switches.
The stack of the switch gets reroute automatically if a port or cable failure takes place.
PoE Switch
This one is another form of network switch that uses Power over Ethernet technology where multiple network devices can be connected. The PoE Switch is capable of supporting power and data transmission over a single network cable at a time.
The cabling process gets simplified with the presence of this switch. It is also one of the most common types of switches available in the market.
Managed vs. Unmanaged Switch: Which one should choose?
We have tried to give you information about both types of switches in the above section. However, the majority of people often gets confused and end up making the wrong choice. Managed Switch vs. Unmanaged switches has become a solid debate among the technical community. We often received requests from readers to solve this puzzle so that they can easily make the right choice. Let have a look at the key differences between both of these types in the table mentioned below:
Gigabyte Wireless Lan Card Driver 802.11 B G
Managed Switches | Unmanaged Switches |
There is brilliant security offered using managed switches to management, control, and data plane. | They offer very average security using accessories like the lockable port cover. |
These switches are very costly to buy. | Available at a very affordable price. |
Capable of working perfectly in larger networks. | Ideal for installing in small business networks and homes |
These types of switches can be configured perfectly with Access Control and LAN traffic | This one has a plug and play working system with pretty limited configuration |
It is equipped with a solid set of features like IP routing, redundancy, CLI, etc. | It has fixed-configuration and lacks any configuration interface |
Now, choosing one out of them strongly depend on the requirements of your business. Let’s first talk about the use of these switches in the business sector. An unmanaged switch will be the ideal option to choose for small-sized businesses as they only need basic functions. On the other hand, unmanaged switches will be the ideal option for data centers and businesses with complex centers.
When it comes to homes, the majority of people will suggest going for an unmanaged switch. But it isn’t that easier in reality. You should go for a plug and play an unmanaged switch if you don’t need any complications and want your home network to work normally. On the other hand, the managed switches are the best pick to make if you want more privacy and security.
We have gone through both types in a detailed way, so you know how to choose the right one. Go for the managed switches if you can manage a LAN and know the configuring process. Choose an unmanaged switch if you prefer keeping things simple.
What are the top 5 best gigabit switches for the home network in 2020?
Now, we have reached to the real business, i.e., which one is the best gigabit switch for home network. It is a very tricky question considering the abundance of options available in the market. However, we are here to help the readers, and that’s why our team researched and tested nearly 20 units to create the list of top 5 best gigabit switches for the home network in 2020. Have a look at each one and choose the one that suits your needs perfectly.
1. NETGEAR GS308 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (Editor choice)
Gigabyte Network & Wireless Cards Drivers
This product is manufactured by a mature brand like Netgear who has a respectful name in the SMB networking world. It is an 8-port unit that considered as a leader in the unmanaged switch segment. The GS308 model is an incredible option to choose for a home or small office. The most interesting thing about this unit is it’s the only model manufactured by Netgear brand in a metal chassis.
On top of that, the installation process is quite easier, even if you have a tighter space in your house. There are four sticky rubber feet added by the manufactured that let the users attach the unit anywhere.
Construction
It is crafted in a sturdy metal chassis that is adequately rugged for both homes as well as office uses. As we all know, there are eight ports in this switch along with status indicators added on the RJ-45 ports. It is an unmanaged switch so relatively simple to use even for a complete beginner.
Noise-free operations
Another considerable feature in this unit is its fanless design that means no noise will create irrespective of the place you install it. The thing that we want to say is it’s an ideal option for noise-sensitive areas.
Performance
In the testing phase, this switch performs well than the majority of other options with a considerable margin. The company advertises 16GBPS switching, and they mean it for sure. You won’t any issues related to lag or disturbance in the signal.
Pros
- Equipped with LEDs that give status about the link, activity, and speed to the users.
- Capable of giving adequate support to the jumbo frames in the network
- Extremely simple and reliable product to use
- Backed by a lifetime limited hardware warranty
Cons
- Doesn’t come with any of the advanced features
- The minor community of people unsatisfied with warranty policy
2. TP-Link 5 Port Gigabit PoE Switch (Best for improved connection speed)
If your main motive behind buying a gigabit switch is to boost the speed, then don’t look anywhere further than this model from TP-Link. It comes with 5 ports designed for boosting the speed and quality of connection. The main motive of the company behind manufacturing this unit is to make sure data get transferred at a better speed.
There are five different ports in this switch along with a non-blocking construction so that the network response time gets improved. On the other hand, there are non-blocking switches that let the device filter data packets quickly, even if the traffic times are high.
Power Over Ethernet (PoE)
Four RJ-45 ports in this switch support the PoE function. It can be pretty handy features that want a device that can detect and supply power to PDs adequately.
Port Priority Feature
For those who don’t know about Port Priority, it means the port 4 won’t get power when the total consumption of PoE power passes 56W. It may not be a useful function for homeowners, but it can be a blessing for people with an office in their home. Additionally, it works fine in the small office arrangements.
Simple Setup Process
Not even a single homeowner prefers having a switch that involves tons of complications for setting up. This unit has a plug and plays design that allows even a novice to set it quite easily without any need for software or configuration.
Pros
- Crafted in desktop-friendly mountable construction for buyer’s convenience
- Equip with the self-cooling operation for a fully quiet operation
- Sold by the company at a very affordable pricing
- Give full support to 9K jumbo frames for incredible performance
Cons
- Hooking up this product is a little bit difficult
- Certain conditions in the lifetime warranty process
3. TP-Link Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch (Best budget-friendly pick)
Many of our readers might be the one with a limited budget as they don’t want to overspend on a switch. For those people, our team has added this model from TP-Link that available in both 5-port and 8-port variants. The company’s main motive behind crafting this unit provides the lowest priced gigabit Ethernet switch to the buyers, and they have succeeded to a great extent. You may find more models at a price lower than this one, but they lack in quality and build.
With a plug and play and easy setup process, you can start using this unit without configuration that can give a great sign of relief to many buyers. On top of that, the company offers 24X7 technical support and a two-year warranty on this unit. It is a complete package that can be yours by paying a pretty decent amount of money.
Sleek Appearance
It is a lightweight unit that made using high-quality plastic for the convenience of the buyers. The sturdy and slim look of this gigabit switch can add style to your home. Additionally, there are basic LEDs on the front side that enough considering its price.
Two-year warranty
Despite being a very affordable unit, the company sells it with a two-year warranty along with 24X7 technical support. You can find this kind of benefit in a gigabit switch, especially at this price.
Auto-negotiation
Through auto-negotiation, we want to mean support offered by this switch to the Auto-MDI/MDIX that eliminates the requirement for any crossover cables. It can turn out to be very handy for people who hate wires.
Pros
- Available to buy at a very affordable price
- Assists in maximizing speeds consistently
- Doesn’t create any noise during operation
Cons
- Reliability registered by a minor number of buyers
- Long waiting on customer service
4. NETGEAR GS308-100 PAS (Best under $30)
The product that accommodates the fourth position in the list is GS308-100 PAS that equipped with versatile mounting options. It has a plug and play that ensure you can start using this switch without any configuration. The biggest thing that we want to talk about this product is extremely small and silent desktop form factor thanks to its rugged metal construction. The installation process for setting this switch is quite simple, and anyone can set it within seconds. There is an LED added on the unit for indicating activity on all the ports.
The company has employed non-blocking switching architecture that results in maximizing the speed. Additionally, the presence of auto-MDI/MDIX assists in removing problems caused by crossover cables. That’s not all; the company has tested this unit for reliability and crafted in a way that the unit lasts longer.
Plug and Play Connectivity
The most wonderful thing to talk about this unit is its plug and play connectivity that lets anyone install it to a variety of ports. Many users don’t have any technical knowledge, so this unit can be an ideal option to choose for.
Maximum Wire Speed
What is your main reason behind buying a gigabit switch? It is obvious that you want to boost the speed of your network. This job is performed by this unit wonderfully without causing any lag on the system even if you play heavy games.
Mounting Options
The manufacturer has tried to make things convenient for the buyers. They have provided dual mounting options for the users that include both desktop and wall mounting feature. You are allowed to choose any between them as per the convenience.
Pros
- This unit uses a minimal amount of power for boosting the network
- Crafted in a brilliant construction for a rugged feel
- Can be sold at a reasonable price
- Extremely simple to setup
Cons
- Come only with a two-year warranty
- Causes little bit power spikes sometimes
5. TP-Link Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch (Best power saving gigabit switch)
This one is the best gigabit switch for the home network if you are looking to save power and want it to be minimal. It is a smart switch that can be connected to a great variety of devices in the present wired network. There are eight ports added in this unmanaged switch having compatibility with lots of network standards. The presence of 802.1 p assists in prioritizing the latency-sensitive traffic that includes gaming, video, voice, etc.
On top of that, there is an IGMP snooping feature that can assists successfully in optimizing multicast traffic in many different ways. However, the most convincing unit to talk about here is a huge range of power-savings options that can cut the energy consumption to the minimum. The transition to gigabit Ethernet switch will become very easier by installing this switch.
Traffic Optimization Ability
This unit is full of useful features like DSCP QoS and 802.1P that can make the flow of latency-sensitive traffic smoother and better. It includes things like voice, video, and files among others. Also, the multicast data stream gets optimized due to this.
The array of power-saving features
The designing process of this switch is performed incredibly as it can conserve the power by identifying the link status of all the ports automatically. It directly results in minimizing the power consumption of ports that saves up to 82% power.
Durable Metal Construction
Another convincing thing that you need to acknowledge about this unit is its sturdy metal case along with having a quieter operation. Also, there are dual mounting options in the form of desktop and wall-mounting.
Pros
- Simple setup process without any involvement of crossover cables
- Capable of getting adjusted for better compatibility and performance
- Save up to 80% power when compared with other devices
- Identify the link status of all the ports
Cons
- Not so good RMA experience
- Limited lifetime warranty
Gigabyte Wireless Lan Card Driver Windows 7
Factors need to consider while buying the best gigabit switch for home network
There are certain parameters that you have to check while shopping for the perfect switch. We have explained the major ones below in detail:
Features
Always invest money in the switch that comes with a desirable number of features you needed for the network. It differs from one user to another as some use it for the printers while other Wi-Fi networks to connect. So, please make sure that the gigabit switch you are shopping for should have an adequate number of features for satisfying your needs.
Number of Ports
One of the most important factors to consider while shopping the gigabit switch is the number of ports. They are available in anywhere ranging from four ports and go up to 48 ports. So, we suggest you choose the switch that matches your needs perfectly.
Speed
Speed is an essential aspect that needs to be checked correctly. If you ask us, then we will suggest you choosing the one with 1,100 Mbps as it is enough for the home network. Anything less than this may create issues in the connection.
Budget
No matter what you buy, the budget will be an important thing that needed to be considered properly. The same goes for this product as it is available in a variety of price ranges. Our team has tried to add both luxury and budget-friendly gigabit switches. You can find one easily according to the pocket.
Warranty policy
Please have a look at the warranty policy of the switch that you are going to shop. It should offer a 2-year warranty as anything less than this won’t do any favor. There are units added in this list that come even with a five year or even a lifetime warranty. So, the more it is, the better is it to choose.
Conclusion
According to the final arguments, our team wants to conclude that Netgear GS108 is the most suitable choice to make. You can choose the other options if this one doesn’t satisfy your needs perfectly. Each unit mentioned in this post is the best gigabit switch for home networks depending on one’s needs. So, make the right choice and add reliability to your network. Do you still have a query related to gigabit switches? If yes, then don’t wait and write it down in the comment section.
You may also check: