Best Ethernet Switches: Fast, Reliable, and Secure
This guide reviews various Ethernet switches for home networking, recommending specific models from Netgear and TP-Link. It explains the benefits of wired connections for improving Wi-Fi performance and managing smart home devices.
Why it matters
As home networks become more complex with IoT devices, reliable hardware is essential for maintaining connectivity and security.
Whether you want to set up a wired backhaul for better Wi-Fi performance, plug in your TV to banish buffering, or hook up a local, subscription-free security camera system using Power over Ethernet (PoE), Ethernet switches can help you do it. I’ve tested several, and these are the brands I recommend.
You may also want to dip into my other home networking guides, including What Is Ethernet, How to Run Ethernet Cables Around Your Home, How to Buy a Router, Best Wi-Fi Routers, and Best Mesh Systems.
I’ve used a few different Netgear switches over the years and found them to be very reliable and well made.
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