Speaking of today’s market of network switches, there are three main fiber switches having to be mentioned: unmanaged switch, managed switch and web smart switch. In the previous articles, we compared managed switch with unmanaged switch for home network. In this article, we will continue to make a contrast. So web smart switch vs managed switch, which one should you choose, the decision depends on the size of your network and how much control you need over that network.

What Is Web Smart Switch?

A web smart switch, also named smart switch or smart managed switch, is a popular option for mid-sized networks that require management. It provides features like QoS (Quality of Service), RSTP (Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol), SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol), CLI (Command Line Interface), LACP, VLANs, redundancy capability, and so on. Web smart switch is managed via a web browser that provides intuitive guidance for users to manage their networks. It has limited selection of advanced management, poorer scope of configuration flexibility and little to no security features.

What Is Managed Switch?

Similar to web smart switch, a managed switch can be configured and managed correctly to provide a more tailored experience for users. It not only offers tools and means to monitor the network but also gives the network administrator greater control over managing and prioritizing LAN (local area network) traffic. Managed switch allows users in charge of setting everything up, but users have to take all the responsibility for the operation.

Web Smart Switch vs Managed Switch: What’s the Difference?

The differences between web smart switch and managed switch have always been discussed. Here are some obvious differences between them.

Function

• It offers options like QoS, VLANs, and so on.
• It’s ideal for VoIP phones, small VLANs, and working groups for places like labs.
• It allows you to configure ports, basic settings and set up virtual networks.
• It allows you to assign higher priority to critical traffic.
• It can divide your network into multiple virtual networks for better traffic security and reliable connectivity.
• It helps to allocate network bandwidth the way you work.

• It provides high-levels of network security, control and management.
• It can limit access to specific devices, prioritize user traffic and partition a network.
• It can use layer 3 routing capability to link smaller networks into much larger business-wide networks.
• It can remotely monitor network performance, detect and repair network problems without having to physically check devices or requiring network services.
• It can optimize a network’s speed and resource utilization.

Application

A web smart switch is an entry-level managed switch. It’s especially suitable for a business network hosting less than 100 active users. If there is no advanced applications required, web smart switch is the best solution for simple applications such as small and midsize enterprise networks.
An managed switch is ideal for businesses that need to remotely and securely manage and troubleshoot their network. It enables network managers to monitor and control traffic to achieve optimal network performance and reliability. It allows the network to be expanded with flexibility.

Price

Considering the features and functions provided by web smart switch and managed switch, there is no doubt that managed switch is more expensive than web smart switch. Since managed switch allows the network to grow in the future, it worth the price over time.

Web Smart Switch vs Managed Switch: Which Is Best for You?

Web smart switch vs managed switch, the differences do exist. No matter which type to choose, you have to consider your demands first. If you have no limit of expenditure and want to have more control over the network, managed switch is the best choice. If you want to support one small company or colleague with a lower price, web smart switch is good enough. If you don’t know which one suits you best, FS.COM provides various switches to satisfy all your needs.

Related Articles:
Managed Gigabit Switch Buying Guide
Managed vs Unmanaged Switch: Which One Can Satisfy Your Real Need?
Managed or Unmanaged Switch for Home Network