11 Mar PoE Switches vs Non-PoE Switches – The Right Choice for Your Organization

In the previous article we explored PoE, what the differences are between PoE and non-PoE switches, and why adopting PoE may be the best choice for you. We will now help you to decide on which is best for your organization and how to make the upgrade to PoE switches should they be the right option for you.

When Would a Non-PoE Switch be the better option?

When would you use a non-PoE switch? The main reasons are because:

• It’s not worth changing over – There are occasions where it simply isn’t worth making the change, either financially or operationally. If you already have a non-PoE switch in place that works with data-only devices then there is no need for the upgrade.
• Budget – We would all like the best of the best in our organizations at all times, but, unfortunately, this isn’t always possible. If you have a tight budget and non-PoE switches are less expensive and more capable, why wouldn’t you choose them instead?
• Not the right time – Perhaps you are replacing an existing non-PoE switch already – that doesn’t mean that you have to upgrade your entire system. It is only beneficial to do if you know you can afford it, know that it will be beneficial, and lastly – and most importantly – know that you are ready.

Which Should I Choose?

It isn’t as black and white as making a choice between the two. Luckily, PoE and non-PoE devices can mix in the same network, but it is apparent that non-PoE devices simply aren’t the right choice for most.

Unless you have a requirement for a system that can support a lot of legacy devices, your network spans a huge distance, or you have devices that have power demands that are considerably high, a PoE switch is the choice for you. With IoT (the Internet of Things) expanding rapidly, it is forecast that new devices will all be PoE enabled.

If you prepare your network to support these devices then your organization will be in prime position to utilize new technology to its full potential.

How Can You Upgrade to PoE Switches?

It doesn’t have to be a long laborious process like talking to an IT professional can be. As we said previously, PoE switches automatically detect compatibility – you can just plug them in and let them enable power over Ethernet to devices that require electricity.

PoE switches are good for a wide range of needs, so definitely worth investigating. If this all seems a bit much to take onboard, please don’t hesitate to get in contact with our expert team and let us help you to determine what may be right for your business.

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