7 Ways to Configure Network Switches for Optimal Performance

Switches are essential “connecting elements” of a network. They help devices communicate with each other and allow for the smooth passage of information, making them a critical component of any data center. 

Switches are important because they:

• Enable network communication: Switches make sharing of files and resources easier and allow for the quick sharing of information within the network. 
• Manage network bandwidth: Switches monitor and manage data traffic in a network. They help prevent network overload and ensure enough optimum network bandwidth.
• Improve network security: Switches protect networks from unauthorized access and help secure devices from malicious attacks.

Let’s evaluate a few key considerations before buying a network switch:

1. Capacity: Switches differ vastly in the kind of expendability they can offer. Modular, more advanced switches can be easily configured to allow for better port configuration and are simpler to use. 
2. Speed: Choosing the right switch depending on the level of data passage in your network is imperative. You could opt for switches offering 10/100/1000 Gigabit ethernet or faster speeds for heavy-duty requirements.
3. Monitoring and management: Managed vs. unmanaged switches differ in how they help piece a network together uniquely. While managed switches offer features that can help you manage and monitor the network closely, unmanaged switches offer basic connectivity features and are mostly just “plug-and-play.” You may need a switch that can provide advanced features to support VLAN, QoS, and SNMP for larger, complex networks.
4. Features for Power over Ethernet (PoE): PoE switches can power devices such as VoIP phones, wireless access points, and IP cameras. If you have PoE-enabled devices on your network, consider a switch with PoE capabilities.
5. Pricing: Because there are so many different types of switches, their pricing largely depends on the kind of features they come with and how well they fit within a network. It is vital to choose a switch that meets both your performance and budget requirements in place.

Upgrading Network Posture with Highly-Configured Switches

Configuring a network switch is an important building block for ensuring a high-performance network. Poorly configured switches can result in slower network speeds, dropped packets, and many other functionality crashes. Let’s look at seven ways you can configure your network switches for optimal performance:

1. Inspecting your hardware: The first step towards adding your shiny new switch to the network is understanding its hardware and cabling requirements. This will help you check whether your switch matches your network topology and works correctly.
2. VLAN Configuration: Configuring your switches to support VLANs can help reduce data traffic and enhance network security. VLANs allow you to segment your network into different virtual LANs, which can also help reduce network congestion. 
3. QoS Configuration: Quality of Service (QoS) prioritizes certain types of traffic over others. This is particularly useful for time-sensitive applications like video conferencing or VoIP calls. By configuring QoS on your switch, you can ensure that these applications receive the necessary bandwidth to function correctly.
4. Link Aggregation: Link aggregation is a technique that allows you combine multiple physical connections into a single connection. This can help increase network bandwidth and improve network reliability.
5. Spanning Tree Protocol (STP): STP is a network protocol that prevents loops in the network by disabling redundant links. By configuring STP on your switch, you can ensure your network remains stable and avoid performance issues caused by network loops.
6. Port Security: Port security is a vital feature to safeguard your network from malicious attacks and restricts access to specific switch ports. While configuring your switch to enable port security, don’t forget to add settings like MAC address filtering and ranges for maximum allowed devices.
7. Trunk Configuration: Trunking allows you to carry multiple VLANs over a single physical connection. By configuring trunking on your switch, you can improve network performance by reducing the number of physical connections required to carry multiple VLANs.

Configuring a network switch for optimal performance requires careful inspection and adjustment of settings. Mapping these to your network requirements correctly can help ensure your network performs at its best over time. 

Revamp Network Performance with Top-Quality Refurbished Switches

If you are looking for reliable switches that can boost network performance at an affordable cost, CXtec can help you make an informed decision. With over 40 years of expertise in the refurbished hardware market in North America, CXtec offers high-quality, refurbished network switches from top brands like Cisco, Juniper, and HP with ready-to-ship inventory, helping you achieve a faster uptime. 

Our impeccable service quality makes us stand apart, keeping customers coming back for more and helping them scale their enterprise network needs smoothly. 

equal2new® – our certified, refurbished hardware brand has helped leading organizations:

• Save up to 90% off manufacturing prices on pre-owned switches and massively optimize IT hardware spending. 
• We also offer lifetime warranty on all products, which  means you can free up your time and achieve your IT goals smoothly.  
• With 99.51% out-of-box reliability, we are trusted by satisfied customers globally who have switched from OEM equipment to refurbished hardware. 
• And finally, we understand the value of having different options and offer you a variety of switches from top manufacturing brands with ready-to-ship inventory to help you get your network up and running quickly. 

Are you ready to supercharge your network performance with high-quality switches? Contact us to get started.