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Types of Network Switches

Switch Type	Best For	Key Benefit
Unmanaged Switches	Homes, small offices & basic networks	Plug-and-play; no configuration required
Smart Managed Switches	Business networks	Web-based management, VLANs and network controls
Managed Switches	Enterprise & advanced networks	VLANs, security, monitoring and detailed configuration
PoE Switches	CCTV, IP phones & access points	Transmits data and power through Ethernet
Gigabit Switches	High-speed LANs	Up to 1 Gbps Ethernet connectivity
10G / High-Speed Switches	Servers & demanding networks	Higher bandwidth for large data transfers

Managed vs Unmanaged Network Switches

Unmanaged switches are designed for simple plug-and-play networking. Connect your Ethernet cables and devices, and the switch automatically handles network traffic without requiring a web interface or configuration. Managed switches provide greater control through a management interface. Depending on the model, administrators can configure VLANs, access controls, traffic management, monitoring, QoS and other network features. For a basic office network, an unmanaged Gigabit switch may be sufficient. For larger business, CCTV, VoIP or enterprise installations, a managed or smart managed switch provides greater flexibility and control.

PoE Network Switches

Power over Ethernet (PoE) switches allow compatible devices to receive both network connectivity and electrical power through a single Ethernet cable. They are commonly used for:

• IP CCTV cameras
• Wireless access points
• VoIP phones
• Security systems
• IoT devices
• Network equipment

When choosing a PoE switch, check the PoE standard, number of PoE ports and total PoE power budget to ensure it can support your connected devices.

Popular Network Switch Brands in Kenya

Brand	Common Applications
TP-Link	Home, office, SMB and PoE networks
D-Link	Desktop, office and business networking
Cisco	Enterprise and professional networks
MikroTik	Advanced networking and infrastructure
Hikvision	CCTV and surveillance networks
Hioso	Networking and surveillance applications
Mercusys	Affordable home and small-office networks
Ruijie	Business and enterprise networking
Ubiquiti	Professional wireless and network infrastructure

How to Choose the Right Network Switch

Consider port count, network speed, PoE requirements and management features before purchasing. 5–8 ports: Suitable for homes, small offices and individual workstations. 16 ports: Ideal for growing offices and small network installations. 24–48 ports: Suitable for larger offices, server rooms, structured cabling and enterprise networks. Choose Gigabit Ethernet for modern networks, while managed and PoE models are recommended where you require VLAN configuration, network monitoring, CCTV, access points or other advanced infrastructure.

Buy Network Switches in Nairobi, Kenya

Fedi Office Supplies supplies network switches in Nairobi and across Kenya for IT installations, office networks, CCTV systems, schools, businesses, server rooms and enterprise infrastructure.

📍 Town House Building, Kaunda Street, 6th Floor, Room 606, Nairobi
📧 sales@fedi.co.ke
📞 +254 114 158 465
🚚 Same-Day Delivery Within Nairobi
📦 Nationwide Delivery Across Kenya

Need an 8-port, 16-port, 24-port, managed, Gigabit or PoE switch? Contact Fedi Office Supplies for current prices, stock availability and expert recommendations.