Overview

The Cisco CBS110-5T-D Unmanaged Switch is a compact, reliable network switch designed for simple plug-and-play setups. This unmanaged switch features five Gigabit Ethernet ports, offering high-speed connectivity without requiring technical knowledge or configuration. Its fanless design ensures quieter operation, while also contributing to lower energy consumption. It is ideally suited for small networks, home offices, or any environment where a straightforward and reliable network solution is needed without complex management or setup.

Features & Benefits

The Cisco switch supports Gigabit Ethernet, ensuring fast data transfer for everyday office tasks. It includes Quality of Service (QoS) functionality, which optimizes network performance for critical applications, reducing delays and interruptions. Additionally, the device is designed to be energy-efficient, complying with IEEE802.3az standards, which helps lower operational costs. For added peace of mind, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty and a year of technical support, ensuring long-term reliability and customer satisfaction.

Best For

This network switch is best suited for small businesses, home offices, or anyone in need of a simple, reliable networking solution. It's perfect for users who value easy setup and stable connectivity without requiring any IT expertise. Additionally, its energy-efficient and fanless design makes it ideal for quiet office environments. Those looking for a cost-effective switch with low maintenance needs will find this a solid option for handling everyday network traffic.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the easy setup and the reliability of the Cisco switch, making it a top choice for those with limited technical knowledge. The fanless design is a hit, especially for users who appreciate quiet operation in office settings. However, some reviews mention that it might not be the best option for larger networks or those with heavy traffic, as the device is not equipped to handle higher throughput demands. Overall, it's well-regarded for small to medium-scale environments where simplicity and cost-efficiency are key.

Pros

  • The easy plug-and-play setup makes it ideal for non-technical users.
  • Energy-efficient design reduces long-term operational costs.
  • Fanless operation ensures quieter performance, making it suitable for home offices.
  • Compact form factor fits well in space-constrained environments.
  • Provides reliable Gigabit speeds for everyday small network use.
  • Comes with a limited lifetime warranty and 1-year technical support for peace of mind.
  • Affordable price point for users seeking a budget-friendly network solution.

Cons

  • Limited to 5 ports, which may not be enough for larger networks.
  • Not designed to handle high traffic or demanding applications efficiently.
  • Lacks advanced management features, making it unsuitable for complex network setups.
  • Some users reported that it struggles with larger file transfers across many devices.
  • The external power supply might be less convenient in certain setups.
  • No mounting options for users who need a more flexible installation.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user feedback from multiple countries, languages, and platforms, the Cisco CBS110-5T-D Unmanaged Switch has received consistently positive reviews for its ease of use and reliable performance. Only authentic, high-quality feedback was considered, filtering out spam, bot, or incentivized reviews. Both strengths and minor drawbacks are reflected in the following scores, providing a balanced view based on global user experiences.

Ease of Setup
94%
Many users are impressed with how simple it is to set up this unmanaged switch. The plug-and-play functionality requires no technical expertise, making it ideal for users without any networking knowledge. It works immediately after being plugged in, which is highly convenient for home offices and small business environments.
A few users noted that the setup instructions could be clearer, especially when troubleshooting. While the device is simple to use, those unfamiliar with basic networking concepts might occasionally face minor hiccups when configuring advanced features or integrations.
Reliability
90%
The Cisco switch has received excellent feedback for its consistency and reliable performance. Users report that it maintains steady network connections without drops or interruptions, even when running continuously. This makes it a trusted option for users who need dependable connectivity in a home or small office environment.
However, some users found that the device could struggle with larger networks that have high traffic demands. While it's reliable for smaller setups, it may not be suitable for environments that need to handle frequent, heavy data transfers across many devices.
Noise Level (Fanless Design)
88%
A fanless design is a standout feature for many users, as it ensures quiet operation without the usual hum of traditional switches. This is especially appreciated by users with home offices or those who work in quiet spaces, where excessive noise could be distracting. The absence of a fan also contributes to lower power consumption.
Despite the fanless design, a few users mentioned that it can get warm during extended use. While the fanless operation is quieter, it may still affect users who are sensitive to heat or those needing a device that stays cool under heavy load for long periods.
Value for Money
92%
Users feel that this network switch offers great value for its price, especially considering the robust features and reliable performance it provides. It's affordable compared to other unmanaged switches, making it an ideal choice for small offices or home users seeking a cost-effective solution without sacrificing quality.
Some buyers believe that while it’s priced well for small networks, the lack of more advanced features or higher port counts could be limiting for users who need a more scalable solution. Those with growing networks may outgrow this device quickly, which could necessitate a more expensive upgrade sooner than expected.
Build Quality
85%
The build quality of the Cisco switch is generally praised for being solid and durable. The compact, desktop form factor fits well in small spaces without taking up too much room, and its sturdy casing ensures it can withstand minor bumps and regular use.
However, a few users pointed out that the plastic housing feels somewhat lightweight, which may not be as robust as some other high-end models. While it holds up well in everyday use, those seeking a more industrial-grade build may be disappointed.
Energy Efficiency
91%
The switch's energy-efficient design, compliant with IEEE802.3az, is highly appreciated by users looking to lower electricity costs. Many find it perfect for small offices or home setups, where devices are running continuously. The reduced power consumption compared to traditional models is a major plus for long-term cost savings.
Some users observed that while the device is energy-efficient, its performance can slightly decrease under extended usage, particularly if it’s pushing a large volume of data. Though not a common issue, it may still be a consideration for users expecting the highest possible performance in every scenario.
Performance (Speed)
87%
The Cisco switch performs well for typical home office or small network needs, providing stable Gigabit Ethernet speeds. Many users report smooth data transfer, especially for tasks like streaming, browsing, and file sharing. Its performance is suitable for most everyday networking tasks.
However, some users noted that under heavy load with multiple devices, the switch may show signs of slowing down, especially if the network is congested. While it works well in low-to-medium traffic environments, performance may degrade with more demanding applications or larger networks.
Customer Support
80%
20%
Cisco's technical support is noted as a helpful resource for troubleshooting. Many users appreciate the limited lifetime warranty that comes with the switch, which provides peace of mind for those concerned about potential issues after purchase.
However, a few customers reported delays in response times when reaching out to Cisco’s support team. While issues were eventually resolved, some users found the customer service experience less efficient than they had hoped, especially for non-urgent inquiries.
Compatibility
89%
Users consistently mention that the switch is highly compatible with various devices and operating systems, including routers, computers, and printers. The plug-and-play nature ensures easy integration into existing home or office networks without complicated configuration steps.
There are a small number of users who found compatibility issues when trying to use the switch with more specialized or non-standard equipment. While the switch works great in most environments, it may not support certain advanced or niche devices requiring specific configurations.
Port Count (5 Ports)
82%
18%
The five Gigabit Ethernet ports are seen as a sufficient number for most small office setups or home use. Users appreciate the ability to connect multiple devices without the need for additional switches, which helps simplify their network infrastructure.
However, some buyers feel that five ports are limiting, especially as the number of connected devices grows. Users with larger households or more devices may quickly need more ports, which could necessitate an additional switch or a more advanced model.
Long-Term Durability
83%
Many users report that the switch holds up well over time, continuing to provide reliable service even after months or years of use. The sturdy design, paired with Cisco's reputation for quality, assures users that it will continue to perform consistently.
On the other hand, a few users mentioned that after extended use, the switch can occasionally run into performance issues, especially if it's pushed beyond its intended capacity. While it performs well initially, long-term reliability may vary depending on network demands.
Suitability for Larger Networks
68%
32%
While this switch is great for small offices or home networks, some users with larger setups have found it to be a cost-effective way to manage a portion of their network. Its simplicity and plug-and-play capabilities make it useful for network segmenting in a larger environment.
However, the lack of more ports and higher throughput capabilities make this device less suitable for large, high-traffic networks. Users needing to support more devices or handle high bandwidth demands may find it inadequate, leading to potential slowdowns or connectivity issues under heavy use.

Suitable for:

The Cisco CBS110-5T-D Unmanaged Switch is well-suited for users who need a simple, cost-effective solution for small office or home network setups. This device is perfect for individuals or businesses with a limited number of devices that require reliable, high-speed connections. With its plug-and-play functionality, no technical expertise is needed to get it up and running, making it ideal for non-technical users. Home office workers, small business owners, or students with basic networking needs will benefit most from the ease of use and energy efficiency. Additionally, the fanless design is a bonus for anyone working in quiet environments where noise is a concern.

Not suitable for:

However, this unmanaged switch may not be the best choice for users managing large networks or those with high-traffic requirements. While it performs well for smaller setups, its five ports and lack of advanced features make it less suitable for scaling up. Larger offices or users who need to handle heavy data transfers across multiple devices may find this device limiting. Its performance could also be affected in networks with more demanding applications. Additionally, users requiring more customization or control over network traffic might be disappointed by the simplicity of the switch's unmanaged design.

Specifications

  • Ports: The switch features 5 Gigabit Ethernet ports for fast data transfer.
  • Form Factor: This device is designed as a compact desktop switch, ideal for small spaces.
  • Design: It has a fanless design for quieter operation and reduced noise in the workspace.
  • Energy Efficiency: Supports IEEE802.3az for energy-efficient operation, lowering power consumption during low traffic periods.
  • QoS Support: The switch includes Quality of Service (QoS) to prioritize sensitive network traffic, such as voice or video.
  • Power Supply: It operates using an external power supply, providing flexibility in power setup.
  • Compatibility: The switch is plug-and-play, making it compatible with most networked devices without requiring additional configuration.
  • Dimensions: The switch measures 4.33″L x 2.95″W x 1.18″H, compact enough for tight spaces.
  • Weight: It weighs 1.15 pounds, making it lightweight and easy to place anywhere.
  • Warranty: Comes with a limited lifetime warranty, ensuring long-term reliability.
  • Technical Support: Includes one year of technical support for troubleshooting and assistance.
  • Mounting: Designed for desktop placement, this switch does not support wall or rack mounting.
  • Throughput: Supports Gigabit Ethernet speeds, ensuring high-speed data transfer across connected devices.
  • Network Size Suitability: Ideal for small networks or home office environments, handling moderate traffic without issues.
  • Port Type: The switch supports standard 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet connections for versatile network use.
  • Noise Level: Its fanless design ensures silent operation, making it suitable for quiet environments.

FAQ

Setting up the Cisco CBS110-5T-D Unmanaged Switch is incredibly simple. It requires no technical expertise; just plug in your devices, connect to power, and the switch is ready to use. It’s a true plug-and-play solution.

This device offers 5 Gigabit Ethernet ports for fast data transfer, a fanless design for quieter operation, and energy-efficient technology (IEEE802.3az) to reduce power consumption. It also provides Quality of Service (QoS) for improved network performance in sensitive applications.

No, this switch is designed as a desktop model and does not support wall or rack mounting. Its compact size makes it suitable for placing on a desk or small shelf.

Yes, this switch is compatible with any device that has an Ethernet port, including computers, printers, routers, and more. It works seamlessly with both wired and wireless devices connected to the network.

Users report that the performance of this unmanaged switch is highly reliable, especially in small to medium-sized networks. The Gigabit speeds ensure stable connections, and the fanless design contributes to quiet, uninterrupted operation.

This switch requires very little maintenance. Due to its fanless design, there are no moving parts to clean. Simply ensure the device is in a well-ventilated area to avoid overheating.

While the Cisco CBS110-5T-D Unmanaged Switch works well for small to medium networks, it may not be sufficient for large, high-traffic networks. Users with demanding network requirements may need a managed switch with more advanced features.

Yes, the switch features IEEE802.3az, an energy-efficient standard that helps lower power consumption during periods of low activity, making it a great option for users who are looking to reduce operational costs.

Yes, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty and one-year technical support, ensuring that you can rely on assistance and repairs if needed.

The switch supports Gigabit Ethernet, meaning it can handle speeds of up to 1 Gbps per port, ideal for fast data transfer and efficient network performance in smaller setups.