Dealing with poor internet? Network switch can fix it

Your domestic internet connection can work well without a network switch, so is it necessary to have? I was talking to an NetGear expert to figure out the benefits of using one. Spoiler: It can improve your relationship. If you are serious about Optimizing your internet -connectionUsing a network switch can take it to the next level. However, there are details to take into account before investing in a network switch.

Network switch is a device that connects to your router. Opens more Ethernet ports, allowing your router to connect to multiple devices. If your household often relies on your domestic broadband relationship with stream or a gameThese activities can play a lot Width of the range. Helps to have a network switch to speed up your connection. Sometimes an advanced network switch can also prioritize your traffic for specific devices, such as Smart TVs or Game consoles and reducing network congestion.

There is more than one type of network switch, which will cover a little. Everyone serves for their own purpose. However, choosing the best type of network switch for you will depend on a few things.

Henon Henkel, director of Netgear for SMB product marketing, tells CNET that “the user needs to take into account their own level of technological savage, their appetite for adjustment and control and what is needed on the network”, before considering investing in a network switch.

Whatever a network switch anyway?

It can be easy to confuse the router and the network switch because they offer similar features but have different goals. According to Spiceworks, The router transmits information through data packages from one computer network to another. It can also direct the traffic between these computer networks and direct it to their final destination, a certain address of the internet protocol. aka an IP address. On the other hand, a network switch is a device that connects your router to multiple devices. Works in layer 2 of the open system interconnection model. A network switch sends data via packages using the appropriate Ethernet gates leading to the planned device. One of the main advantages of using a network switch is what it is Allows you to connect your router to multiple devices as it is ComputersWireless access points, printers and other servers.

Knowing the different types of available switches can help you better understand how network switches work. The names of these switches may vary based on the industry, but in general, switches fall into the categories of unsolved to fully operated.

There are more than one type of network switch

Netgear categorizes switches in the following baskets:

• Irregular switches They are the simplest type, which includes a device for the accessory and game that requires very little setting or configuration. These can be most useful for basic switching and connection to the average household. Most unsolved switches are a cheaper option, with some prices under $ 100.
• Smart operated switches Offer more complex features and advanced controls. They provide customized controls to prioritize certain types of traffic, such as video calls or streaming. Similar to fully operated switches, Smart -operated devices can range from $ 100 to $ 2,000 or more.
• Completely operated switches They are considered top grade devices, enterprise. They usually have professional audio, video and other complicated network connectivity features. In addition, they offer the most security and precise network controls and management. These switches will benefit the business activities that require connection to a larger network. The only bad side is that they are likely to be the most expensive option. Most operated switches can range from $ 120 to $ 7,000 and more.

For the average household, you will probably only use a driven or smart switch. “Most households will benefit the most from a simple, inexpensive, unsolved switch,” Henkel said.

“They will not need adjustment and management options that come with a switch -operated switch.”

What are the benefits of using a network switch?

Now, when we covered the different types of switches available, how can the network switch help your home connection? The network switch can be ideal as it helps speed up domestic internet connection. Most households use devices such as TVs, printers, computers and much more, which consume a lot of range width. According to Open The latest report, in the first quarter of 2025, downstream use increased by 12.1% compared to last year, while downstream was 13.7%. Different activities on the Internet rely on both of your Use of downstream (download) and use upstream (sending).

The same report also noted that over 115 million US households owned a smart TV in 2024 and spent an average of 21-plus hours a week. Needless to say, more and more households spend a very broadband range, which would make investment in a network switch worth it.

According to Akamaai, Here are some of the usual benefits of using a network switch:

Increased range

A network switch can help produce faster speeds for connected devices. If you notice that your Real speeds differ from what your service provider advertised online, This can be of any of the numerous factors, such as Setting up the routerthe look of your home, Large wallsids and obstacles mixing in your Wi-Fi signal, or even Reinforced speeds from your ISP. However, if you have tried different ways to optimize your connection at home and still get into internet problems, then it may be time to invest in a network switch.

Increased security

Switches can create virtual LAN or VLAN, which isolate network traffic and separate sensitive data, limiting access to approved devices only.

Increased network controls

You control and manage your network. Adding a network switch can increase the number of devices connected to it.

Ethernet power over Wi-Fi

Many network switches usually use Ethernet technology to connect to other devices. The Ethernet cable can be more efficient, as these devices will not need a special power supply. Ethernet connection can also offer faster speeds than Wi-Fi.

Network switches are great if you can exceed the steep price

There are many advantages to have a network switch, as we have covered. However, the biggest disadvantage is that switches usually have a steep price. Overall, the price will depend on the brand and type of the network switch you buy. For the most part, the average network switch can move somewhere from 120 to even 30,000 USD. Keep in mind that fully operated switches are likely to fall to the more expensive end of that range. You can also find online that several unsolved switches with more basic features are at a price of under $ 100.

So, is the network switches worth it?

“Although you will not need a top switch, I still recommend researching and investing in a quality product,” Henkel said.

He also recommended that a higher quality network switch is likely to require more investment, although this means you will get better results for your money as it will be more durable for the coming years.

A network switch can be a gearbox to optimize the domestic internet connection. It offers many benefits ideal for average household, such as increased speed, security and network control. An irregular network switch with basic controls is likely to be sufficient for the average household. Although if you want more personalized controls, which include prioritizing traffic for specific devices, you can expect you to pay more in advance.

Frequently asked questions about the network switch