Install a high-performance IP CCTV camera system using a PoE switch to speed up the installation cost and save expenses. These devices can connect to every device used in the system, like cameras, NVR or DVR, IoT devices, display monitors, routers, and WAPs. A major reason for installing these switches is that they can transmit data and deliver power over a single Ethernet cable connection. They don’t require multiple cable installations, which saves a lot of installation cost. PoE switches can detect the power requirement and deliver the same level of stable power output. These switches are the best for energy efficiency within the CCTV systems, which allows for saving more energy. These devices can also integrate with other security and safety systems, as they have many extra channels. However, choosing the right PoE switch is essential for your IP CCTV systems. In this blog, we will reveal the best PoE switches you need for a high-performance CCTV setup.
What are PoE Switches?
PoE switches are the network switches that are connected to all the devices in an IP CCTV system and other security devices, like access control, and provide both data transmission and safe power flow using a single Ethernet cable connection. They eliminate the need for installing multiple cables for sending data and current flow, which reduces the need for establishing long cable connections around the property. With reduced cable clutter, identifying and troubleshooting faults becomes easy and time-saving for the electricians and repair professionals.
Types of PoE Switches
PoE (Type 1 / 802.3af): They offer power up to 15.4 W per port for devices in small-scale systems.
PoE+ (Type 2 / 802.3at): They offer up to 30W per port for high-power load needing devices like PTZ cameras and biometric readers.
PoE++ (Types 3 & 4 / 802.3bt): With up to 60W power delivery per port, these devices can provide a stable energy flow to high-performance systems. In case of type 4 systems, the power delivery can boost up to 90W.
How to Choose the Right PoE Switches for Security and Safety Systems?
Here are some of the major points to remember:
Power Capability
Choose the PoE switch based on total energy output per port. A switch cannot deliver more power than its built-in power supply is capable of. So find out the total power need of your connected devices in a system and make sure to source the switch that can deliver more than the required limit without electrical stress.
Por Count
Make sure you choose the PoE switch that has enough I/P ports and camera channels to connect with all the required devices in your CCTV systems. Commonly, these switches have 4, 8, 16, 32, and more ports to support different types of devices.
Managed vs Unmanaged
You will have to make a choice between managed and unmanaged PoE switches. The unmanaged device does not require a complex setup or installation. It is designed to be used as a plug and play switch. Where, the managed PoE switch offers a software interface to control every feature and adjust it for your CCTV system.
Top 10 Best PoE Switches for CCTV Network a
1. Hikvision DS-3E1526P-EI/M – 24-Port Gigabit Smart PoE Switch
Features:
- 24 Gigabit PoE ports
- Smart network management functions
- High PoE power budget
- Advanced security features
- Rack-mountable design
Benefits:
- Supports large CCTV installations
- Ensures stable power and data transmission
- Simplifies network monitoring and management
- Enhances surveillance network reliability
- Ideal for commercial and enterprise applications
2. CP Plus CP-ANW-HPU8H2-N12 – 8 Port PoE + 2 Uplink Switch with AI Watchdog
Features:
- 8 PoE ports with 2 uplink ports
- AI Watchdog technology
- Plug-and-play operation
- Compact design
- Reliable power distribution
Benefits:
- Automatically recovers disconnected cameras
- Reduces network downtime
- Easy to install and operate
- Suitable for small to medium CCTV systems
- Improves surveillance system uptime
3. TP-Link VIGI LS110P – 10-Port Desktop Switch with 8-Port PoE+, 96W Budget
Features:
- 8 PoE+ ports
- 10-port desktop switch
- 96W total PoE budget
- Fanless operation
- Plug-and-play setup
Benefits:
- Powers multiple IP cameras efficiently
- Operates quietly in indoor environments
- Simplifies CCTV deployment
- Provides reliable network performance
- Ideal for offices, shops, and small businesses
4. Netgear GS728TPP – 24-Port Gigabit PoE+ Managed Switch
Features:
- 24 Gigabit PoE+ ports
- Fully managed switch capabilities
- High PoE power budget
- VLAN and QoS support
- Rack-mount design
Benefits:
- Supports extensive CCTV networks
- Enables advanced traffic management
- Ensures smooth video transmission
- Enhances network security and control
- Suitable for enterprise surveillance projects
5. D-Link DES-1008P – 8-Port Fast Ethernet PoE Unmanaged Switch
Features:
- 8 Fast Ethernet ports
- PoE support for connected devices
- Unmanaged plug-and-play operation
- Compact desktop design
- Energy-efficient performance
Benefits:
- Easy installation without configuration
- Powers CCTV cameras through a single cable
- Reduces deployment costs
- Ideal for small surveillance systems
- Offers dependable network connectivity
6. Hikvision DS-3E1518P-EI/M – 16-Port Gigabit Smart PoE Switch
Features:
- 16 Gigabit PoE ports
- Smart management features
- High-speed data transmission
- Reliable PoE power delivery
- Durable metal housing
Benefits:
- Supports medium-sized CCTV installations
- Improves network efficiency
- Ensures uninterrupted camera operation
- Simplifies network management
- Delivers stable surveillance performance
7. Netgear GS308PP – 8-Port Gigabit PoE+ Smart Switch
Features:
- 8 Gigabit PoE+ ports
- Smart management capabilities
- Compact form factor
- High PoE power budget
- Energy-efficient operation
Benefits:
- Delivers fast network connectivity
- Powers multiple IP cameras reliably
- Easy to deploy in limited spaces
- Supports network optimization features
- Ideal for growing surveillance networks
8. CP Plus CP-DNW-GPU4G2-48 – 4 Port Gigabit PoE Switch
Features:
- 4 Gigabit PoE ports
- Additional uplink connectivity
- Compact design
- Plug-and-play functionality
- Stable power output
Benefits:
- Suitable for small CCTV setups
- Enables quick and easy installation
- Provides reliable camera connectivity
- Saves wiring and infrastructure costs
- Supports smooth video monitoring
9. TP-Link TL-SG1016PE – 16-Port Gigabit Easy Smart PoE+ Switch
Features:
- 16 Gigabit ports
- PoE+ support
- Easy Smart management interface
- VLAN and QoS functionality
- Durable metal enclosure
Benefits:
- Supports multiple surveillance devices
- Improves network performance and security
- Simplifies CCTV network management
- Delivers stable power and data transmission
- Ideal for medium-sized security installations
10. MikroTik CRS328-24P-4S+RM – 24-Port Gigabit PoE Switch with SFP+ Uplinks
Features:
- 24 Gigabit PoE ports
- 4 SFP+ high-speed uplink ports
- Advanced network management
- Rack-mountable design
- High PoE output capacity
Benefits:
- Ideal for large-scale CCTV deployments
- Supports high-bandwidth video surveillance networks
- Enables flexible fiber uplink connectivity
- Provides centralized network controls
