Best network switches for medium to large businesses

In our modern fast-paced digital landscape, the foundation of any successful medium to large business is a robust and efficient network infrastructure. As companies scale and data demands increase, the right network switch becomes crucial to ensure seamless connectivity, high-speed data transfer, and optimal network performance. Whether you are managing a complex data center or a thriving enterprise, selecting network switches is key to supporting your growing network needs.

Let's explore the top network switches available on the market, highlighting their features, benefits, and why they stand out as the best choices for medium to large businesses. From enhanced security features to unparalleled scalability, these network switches are designed to keep your business running smoothly and efficiently.

Factors to consider when choosing a network switch

When selecting a network switch for your business, several critical factors should guide your decision to ensure optimal performance and scalability. Factors to consider:

1. Port count
   The number of ports on a network switch determines how many devices can be connected. For medium to large businesses, it's essential to:
   • Assess current needs: Determine the number of devices (i.e., computers, printers, and servers) that will be connected.
   • Plan for future growth: Choose a switch with additional ports to accommodate business expansion and new device integration without needing frequent upgrades.
2. Power over Ethernet (PoE)/PoE+ support
   PoE and PoE+ provide both data connection and electrical power to devices, such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points through a single Ethernet cable.
   • PoE: Appropriate for devices with lower power requirements.
   • PoE+: Provides higher power output, essential for devices that demand more power.
   • Consider power needs: Determine the power requirements of connected devices to decide if PoE or PoE+ support is necessary.
3. Speed and performance
   The speed and overall performance of a network switch are crucial for maintaining efficient data flow and minimizing blockages.
   • Gigabit Ethernet: Ideal for most business applications, offering speeds up to 1 Gbps.
   • 10GB Ethernet: For data-intensive applications and high-performance needs, providing speeds up to 10 Gbps.
   • Determine switching capacity and throughput: Ensure switch can handle the maximum data load expected in your network.
4. Budget
   Balancing cost with features and performance is crucial for making an informed decision.
   • Initial cost: Consider the upfront price of the switch.
   • Total cost of ownership: Consider ongoing maintenance, potential expansion costs, and energy efficiency.
   • Return on investment (ROI): Evaluate how the switch's features and performance will contribute to business efficiency and growth, justifying the investment.

Best network switches that meet diverse business needs

Selecting the best network switches is crucial for medium to large businesses seeking robust, scalable, and secure network solutions. Cisco's Business 350, Catalyst 9200, Catalyst 3850, and Nexus 9000 offers advanced features and high performance to meet diverse business needs, ensuring efficient and reliable connectivity.

1. Cisco Business 350 Series Managed Switches
   Cisco’s Business 350 Series Managed Switches are an excellent choice for medium-sized businesses wanting to build a robust and secure network. These switches offer advanced features, such as Layer 3 static routing, IPv6 support, and comprehensive security protocols, to protect sensitive business data. PoE and PoE+ options allow the series to power devices, like IP phones and wireless access points, directly through the network cable, simplifying installation and reducing costs. The intuitive web-based management interface also makes it easy for network administrators to configure and monitor network performance, ensuring reliable connectivity and optimal network efficiency.
2. Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series Switches
   For businesses requiring more advanced capabilities and higher performance, the Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series Switches are an outstanding option. These switches deliver enterprise-class resilience, enhanced security features, and programmable flexibility to support evolving business needs. The series offers modular uplinks, PoE+ support, and stacking capabilities, making it ideal for growing organizations. With Cisco's Digital Network Architecture (DNA) Center integration, these switches provide centralized management, automation, and analytics, simplifying network operations and improving efficiency. The series is designed to handle the increasing demands of the modern digital workplace, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted connectivity.
3. Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series Switches
   Cisco’s Catalyst 3850 Series Switches are designed for larger enterprises requiring high performance, scalability, and robust security. These switches feature Cisco’s Unified Access Data Plane (UADP)and Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), enabling high-speed data processing and support for advanced networking functions, like flexible NetFlow and encrypted traffic analytics. The series supports both PoE and PoE+, making it versatile for powering a wide range of network devices. Advanced features, such as full IPv6 support, modular design for easy upgrades, and seamless integration with Cisco's mobility solutions, ensure a highly reliable and future-proof network infrastructure for demanding business environments.
4. Cisco Nexus 9000 Series Switches
   For large-scale enterprises and data centers, Cisco’s Nexus 9000 Series Switches offer unparalleled performance, scalability, and programmability. These switches are built to handle the most demanding network environments, providing high-density 10/25/40/50/100 GbE interfaces. The series supports Cisco’s Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI), allowing for a highly automated and policy-driven network architecture. This series is ideal for organizations that require a flexible and scalable data center network, supporting virtualization, cloud computing, and high-performance applications. With advanced telemetry and analytics, the series helps IT teams monitor and optimize network performance, ensuring maximum uptime and efficiency.

CXtec assistance: Finding the best refurbished switches

At CXtec, we not only offer expert assistance in helping you select the right switches tailored to your specific needs, but provide top-quality refurbished switches that undergo a comprehensive refurbishment process, including thorough testing and certification to ensure your business can achieve high performance and reliability at cost-effective prices. Our used Cisco network switches meet strict quality standards, providing dependable operation. Our experts offer valuable guidance on configuration and compatibility to optimize network performance while maximizing your budget efficiency.