Enterprise switches are the type of network switches, which are deployed in large networks comprising many connections. These switches do not suggest typical types but only refer to the work environment and application. There are different types of enterprise switches based on the designs. This post analyzes these switches, their hierarchy, types, and applications in detail.

1. ENTERPRISE SWITCHES
AND THEIR SELECTION
GUIDE www.versitron.com

2. Enterprise switches are the type of network switches, which are deployed in
large networks comprising many connections. These switches do not suggest
typical types but only refer to the work environment and application. There are
different types of enterprise switches based on the designs.
Enterprise Switches support Layer 2 connection gateways. Some enterprise
switches have PoE function that helps in managing the energy consumption of
devices connected to switches.
WHAT ARE ENTERPRISE SWITCHES?

3. HIERARCHICAL DESIGN OF
ENTERPRISE SWITCHES
Distribution
Switches
Core Switches Access Switches
They serve as the bridge between
the core layer and access layer
switches. As the name suggests,
these switches ensure the data
packets are routed properly
within the network.
These switches are also known as
aggregation switches or work-
group layer switches.
These Switches form the
backbone of any network. They
serve as the gateway to the
Internet because they are
positioned to the center of the
network.
Thus, only fully managed switches
are used as core switches.
These switches help connect the
end node devices like the wired
devices or APs to the network.
They are the most important layer
switches.
Most switches that you see in a
network are access layer
switches.

4. TYPES OF ENTERPRISE SWITCHES
Nowadays, enterprises are implementing hybrid networks to leverage the benefits of copper and
fiber connections. As a result, you will see the increasing use of fiber optic network switches in
many enterprise networks.
Following types will be quite helpful if you are looking out for enterprise fiber optic network
switches for your organization -
Managed Switches
Unmanaged Switches
PoE Switches
Smart Switches

5. MANAGED SWITCHES
Managed Switches help in building highly secure
networks. These switches are considered best for
supporting Gigabit Ethernet.
These days, Managed Switches are used to build
VLANs, which allows to segment their network and
manage traffic effectively.
Managed Switches are equipped with STP that allows
administrators to perform their QoS duties easily.

6. UNMANAGED SWITCHES
Unmanaged switches are basic “plug-and-play” style
devices that allow a user to connect multiple Ethernet
and Fiber Optic devices with ease.
The auto-negotiation feature enables the switch to
identify the connection speed and duplex
configuration
These unmanaged switches are best suited for
smaller networks where traffic is not required to be
monitored or controlled.

7. POE SWITCHES
PoE switches are credited for introducing network
simplicity as they have reduced the need of wiring.
Any device on the PoE network can easily function
even if they are not near to the AC access points or
routers.
There are two types of PoE Switches
• Active PoE Switches
• Passive PoE Switches

8. This is a type of managed switch that comes with few
features for limited management options like duplex
modes or VLANs. These switches make a great option
if your network requires limited customization.
The devices are affordable due to their limited
customization options.
SMART SWITCHES

9. HOW TO CHOOSETHEBEST ENTERPRISE
SWITCH FORYOURAPPLICATION
Before selecting any Enterprise Switch for your application you need to keep several things
in mind. You need to be careful before any selection as these fiber optic network switches
differ in terms of design and applications. These points will help you make your selection
easier –
• Power
• Ports
• Stackability
• Speed
• Level of Customization

10. VERSITRON
The First and Trusted Source of Fiber Optic Technology
Contact Us
Reach out to us for any
inquiries or comments.
Phone Number
302-894-0699
Email Address
fiberlink@versitron.com
Website
www.versitron.com