System Integrator’s Guide to Networking Switches

For System Integrators (SIs), reliable and efficient networking infrastructure is key to delivering high-performance solutions for businesses of all sizes. Syrotech’s extensive range of networking switches is designed to cater to the needs of various applications, from simple deployments to complex enterprise networks. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of switches Syrotech offers, their ideal use cases, and how each product can support your projects.

Small Office, Retail, CCTV, and Smart Home Solutions

In many small-to-medium installations, there’s often a need for simple, cost-effective solutions that are easy to deploy and maintain. Unmanaged PoE switches are perfect for such scenarios as they provide both data and power over Ethernet, minimizing cable clutter and reducing installation time.

Use Cases:

• Small Offices & Retail Stores – Powering IP phones, security cameras, and Wi-Fi access points.
• CCTV Installations – Providing power and data connectivity to cameras and surveillance equipment without additional wiring.
• Smart Home Networks – Connecting smart devices and providing power to security systems, smart hubs, and home automation devices.

Recommended Product: SY-2400P-2T-2S-400W

The SY-2400P-2T-2S-400W offers 24 10/100/1000Base-T PoE ports, 2 Ethernet ports, and 2 SFP uplink ports. With a total PoE power of 320W, it supports IEEE802.3af/at standards and extends up to 250 meters. This makes it perfect for providing power to remote devices without the need for extra cabling.

Small and Medium-sized Businesses Needing Advanced Management and Power over Ethernet

As businesses grow, network demands increase, requiring more control over security, traffic management, and scalability. Layer 2 Managed PoE switches give small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) the ability to manage and monitor their networks easily while also providing PoE to connected devices.

Use Cases:

• SMBs – Managing VLANs, secure access, and efficient power delivery to devices like IP cameras, Wi-Fi access points, and VoIP phones.
• Network Segmentation – Ensuring different departments or groups within the organization have isolated and secure network access.
• Enhanced Security – Offering network security features like port-based authentication and QoS for critical applications.

Recommended Product: SY-8000P-2S-120W-L2

The SY-8000P-2S-120W-L2 features 8 PoE ports and 2 gigabit SFP ports. Supporting IEEE802.3af/at standards with 120W of PoE power, it provides high performance with built-in network management capabilities. It’s ideal for SMBs that need to monitor traffic, optimize performance, and ensure security while deploying PoE devices.

Enterprise Networks with Redundancy and Security Needs

For large enterprises with complex network infrastructures, the need for high uptime, redundancy, and robust security mechanisms is paramount. Layer 2 managed switches offer critical features such as link redundancy, multiple protocol support, and secure access, which are essential for enterprise-grade applications.

Use Cases:

• High-Availability Networks – Ensuring minimal downtime through redundancy protocols such as STP, RSTP, MSTP, and LACP.
• Security and Traffic Management – Controlling access, managing network traffic, and protecting sensitive data through ACLs and security filtering.
• Data-Intensive Applications – Supporting high-bandwidth and low-latency applications with QoS prioritization.

Recommended Product: SY-8000-4X-L2

The SY-8000-4X-L2 features 8 10/100/1000M Base-T ports and 4 SFP/10GE SFP+ ports, perfect for handling large enterprise networks. With advanced protocols for redundancy, including STP/RSTP/MSTP/ERPS/LACP, and robust security filtering (ACLs), it ensures a secure, high-performance network with minimal downtime.

Industrial, Factory, Outdoor, and Surveillance Deployments

Industrial networks often operate in harsh environments where devices are exposed to extreme conditions such as temperature fluctuations, moisture, dust, and vibration. Industrial PoE switches are designed to withstand these challenges while providing reliable power and data connectivity to mission-critical devices.

Use Cases:

• Manufacturing Facilities – Supporting production-line sensors, cameras, and IoT devices with PoE, even in dusty or wet environments.
• Outdoor Surveillance – Powering IP cameras, NVRs, and Wi-Fi hotspots in areas exposed to the elements.
• Remote Industrial Sites – Providing connectivity and power to remote devices that are difficult to access or maintain.

Recommended Product: SY-8000P-2S-IND

The SY-8000P-2S-IND is a rugged PoE switch designed for industrial environments. It supports IEEE802.3af/at PoE+ with 30W per port, two gigabit SFP port uplinks. Its advanced QoS and security features ensure reliable performance even in tough, industrial conditions.

Home Offices, Small Businesses, and Educational Environments

For small-scale installations such as home offices, small businesses, or educational environments, there’s a need for compact, cost-effective solutions that still provide reliable high-speed networking. Desktop switches are ideal for these smaller setups, offering plug-and-play solutions without the complexity.

Use Cases:

• Small Offices – Connecting computers, printers, and basic networking devices in a small office setup.
• Home Offices – Enabling high-speed connectivity for remote work, especially when using multiple devices like laptops, phones, and printers.
• Educational Environments – Connecting student computers, projectors, and other learning tools in classrooms or computer labs.

Recommended Product: SY-1008

The SY-1008 is a compact gigabit Ethernet switch with 8 auto-negotiation ports, perfect for small spaces. It offers high-speed performance and easy setup, ideal for small offices, home offices, and educational networks.

Extending Network Range with Fiber Connectivity

In situations where copper cabling isn't sufficient due to distance or bandwidth limitations, media converters allow secure bridging between fiber optic and copper networks. These devices provide a cost-effective way to extend the reach of a network, enabling connections over long distances with minimal signal degradation.

Use Cases:

• Long-Distance Connections – Extending networks across large campuses, between buildings, or over city-wide distances.
• Upgrading Infrastructure – Converting legacy copper infrastructure to fiber to meet modern bandwidth demands.
• Connecting Remote Locations – Enabling reliable network connections between distant or hard-to-reach sites.

Recommended Product: GOMC-1303-20

The GOMC-1303-20 media converter supports 10/100M Ethernet over SM Dual Fiber with a 1310nm wavelength. It provides a 20km transmission distance, making it ideal for extending network connections over long distances. The external AC220v power supply offers added convenience for use in various environments.

Conclusion

Syrotech’s range of networking switches offers tailored solutions for every application, from simple unmanaged PoE setups to complex, redundant enterprise networks. By selecting the right switch for each project, System Integrators can provide clients with reliable, secure, and high-performance networks. Whether it’s for small businesses, industrial environments, or enterprise-grade installations, Syrotech’s products deliver the quality and reliability SIs can depend on.

Contact us to find out more.