Managed Switches: These are fully configurable switches that enable network administrators to monitor, configure, and prioritize traffic. They are best for advanced network setups, enterprises, and data centers.
Unmanaged Switches: They are plug-and-play switches with no configuration options. Ideal for home networks and small offices with basic connectivity requirements.
PoE Switches: They provide electrical power and network connection over a single Ethernet cable. Best for IP cameras, VoIP phones, and access points.
Smart/Hybrid Switches: They are a middle ground between unmanaged and fully managed network switches.
Layer 2 vs. Layer 3 Switches: Layer 2 switches operate at the data link layer and forward traffic based on MAC addresses. Layer 3 switches include routing capabilities (like a router) and operate on IP addresses. They work best for inter-VLAN routing and larger networks.
Modular vs. Fixed Configuration:
Modular switches come with a chassis and allow you to add or remove modules as needed, based on your network’s requirements. Best for core network layers that require flexibility and high availability.

Fixed configuration switches have a predefined number of ports and limited customization options.

Feature	Unmanaged	Smart	Managed
Configuration	None	Basic (VLAN, quality of service)	Full (VLAN, quality of service, CLI, SNMP, ACLs)
Management Access	None	Web Interface	CLI, Web, SNMP, SSH
Layer Support	Layer 2	Layer 2 (some L3)	Layer 2 & Layer 3
Use Case	Basic LAN	Small/Medium Office	Enterprise/Data Center
Cost	$	$$	$$$

Compatibility:

Primarily, the compatibility of a network switch involves physical layer, protocol, and management compatibility.

Port Compatibility:

Protocol Compatibility:

Management Compatibility:

Device Compatibility:

Cisco, Juniper, Arista, HPE Aruba, NETGEAR, and TP-Link

Cisco Catalyst 9105AXI-B Wireless Access Point with Wi-Fi 6 Technology

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