Netgear has launched ProSafe Plus Switch family, which allows users to monitor and configure their network, helping them build a low cost network that takes advantage of big business network features.
According to Netgear, the new family of switches includes two fast ethernet versions, the 16-port FS116E desktop switch and 24-port JFS524E rack-mounted switch, and one gigabit ethernet version, the 5-port GS105E desktop switch. The new offering delivers network monitoring, cable testing, traffic prioritisation and network segmentation for better troubleshooting, security and resource allocation. In addition, all of these switches utilise green ethernet features to reduce the power required to operate, saving money and the environment.
The company said that the graphically based software utility enables users to manage network traffic while Quality of Service (QoS) features enables to assign traffic priority based on physically connected ports or prioritise traffic by the types of data, such as streaming video and voice. It also offers cable testing capability for troubleshooting connectivity problems.
The new offering can be set up as plug-and-play switches, or be configured through a simple PC-based utility. The fan-less switches operate silently, making them ideal for placement in open work areas. The GS105E and FS116E are in compact, sturdy metal cases ideal for desktop placement, while the JFS524E can be mounted in a standard 19-inch rack, the company said.
The company claims that the ProSafe Plus Switches consume up to 70% less power than their unmanaged equivalents. These include auto power-down mode which reduces chip power in each ethernet port when the signal from the copper link is not present, thus saving power.
Maggie Wu, product line manager for SMB switching products at Netgear, said: The ProSafe Plus Switch, as an upgrade from the simple connectivity of an unmanaged switch, offers our customers essential network features such as enhanced security, troubleshooting, traffic prioritisation, segmentation and monitoring, all at an affordable price.
