NETGEAR GS305E 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Managed Switch

NETGEAR GS305E 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Managed Switch — image 1
89%
91%
Setup & Installation
95%
Silent Operation
88%
Build Quality
92%
Energy Efficiency
89%
Network Performance
92%
Value for Money
85%
User-Friendliness of Management
90%
Warranty & Support
87%
Design & Portability
88%
Compatibility with Devices
75%
Advanced Features (VLAN, QoS)
93%
Customer Satisfaction
More

Overview

The NETGEAR GS305E 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Managed Switch is a compact and efficient networking solution designed for both home and office use. This managed Ethernet switch provides Gigabit speed for reliable and fast data transfer, making it ideal for setups requiring high-speed connectivity. It supports both desktop and wall-mount installations, offering flexibility in placement. The fanless design ensures silent operation, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments such as offices or home theaters. With five Ethernet ports, it is well-suited for expanding network capacity while maintaining a smooth and uninterrupted connection.

Features & Benefits

This managed Ethernet switch offers a range of practical features, including basic VLAN and QoS support for optimizing network performance. Its energy-efficient design complies with IEEE802.3az standards, reducing power consumption without sacrificing performance. The setup process is user-friendly, facilitated by a simple software interface, ensuring even novices can configure the switch with ease. Furthermore, the 3-year limited hardware warranty provides peace of mind, assuring buyers that any potential issues will be addressed with reliable support. These features combine to deliver an efficient and cost-effective solution for home or small office networks.

Best For

The GS305E switch is particularly well-suited for users who need a straightforward solution for their networking needs. It is ideal for home networks that require additional Ethernet ports, allowing seamless integration with various devices. Small offices will also find this switch beneficial due to its cost-effectiveness and ease of use. Additionally, the switch's silent operation makes it perfect for noise-sensitive spaces, such as offices, bedrooms, or libraries. It’s also a good choice for tech enthusiasts who are looking for basic network management without the complexity of more advanced options.

User Feedback

Users generally rate the GS305E switch highly, with an impressive 4.7-star rating from over 5,000 reviews. Many users appreciate the easy setup and the ability to quickly add more Ethernet ports without complicated configuration. The silent operation is another major highlight, especially for those in noise-sensitive environments. However, some reviewers note that the switch lacks more advanced management features, such as remote monitoring or additional VLAN options, which could be a drawback for more experienced users. Despite this, it remains a popular choice for users seeking a reliable and affordable managed switch.

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Pros

  • The fanless design ensures quiet operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments like home offices.
  • Setup is quick and easy, even for users without extensive technical expertise.
  • The switch supports both desktop and wall-mount installations, providing flexibility in different spaces.
  • With gigabit speeds, this device delivers fast and reliable data transfer for everyday networking needs.
  • Energy-efficient design, compliant with IEEE802.3az, helps reduce power consumption while maintaining performance.
  • Its simple VLAN and QoS features allow basic network management, making it suitable for small home or office setups.

Cons

  • Some users find the lack of advanced management options limiting for more complex networking setups.
  • This device might not provide enough customization for larger networks or professional IT environments.
  • While reliable for small-scale use, it may struggle with heavy traffic or more demanding applications.
  • The 3-year warranty is solid, but some users mentioned wishing for longer coverage for peace of mind.
  • A few users reported occasional connection drops under high usage, which could be an issue in certain scenarios.
  • Not suitable for those who need a fully feature-rich, enterprise-level switch with advanced monitoring capabilities.

Ratings

The ratings for the NETGEAR GS305E 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Managed Switch are based on verified user reviews gathered from multiple sources worldwide, including various languages and platforms. Spam, bot-generated, and incentivized reviews were filtered out to ensure only authentic, high-quality feedback informed the results. Both strengths and weaknesses are reflected in the ratings, with the majority of users praising its easy setup and silent operation, while a few point out the lack of advanced features for power users.

Setup & Installation
91%
Users consistently highlight how easy it is to set up this switch, with many mentioning the straightforward software interface. The plug-and-play setup allows users to get it working within minutes, making it a good choice for both home and office environments.
While most users found the setup simple, a few mentioned the initial configuration could be slightly tricky for those new to managed switches. Some felt that additional setup instructions or tips would have been helpful for beginners.
Silent Operation
95%
The fanless design of this device is widely appreciated by users, especially those with noise-sensitive setups like home offices. Many praise the silent operation, as it doesn’t produce distracting noise during use, allowing for an uninterrupted work environment.
A small group of users mentioned that while the device is generally silent, it can become slightly warm under load, which may concern those in extremely quiet or sensitive environments. However, this doesn’t appear to be a common issue.
Build Quality
88%
The build quality of the switch is generally well-regarded, with many users noting its sturdy construction and solid feel. The plastic casing is durable, and users appreciate the compact size, which allows it to blend well in any environment.
Some users pointed out that the switch’s plastic build feels slightly cheap compared to other higher-end models. While it’s functional, a few wished for a more premium feel, especially for the price.
Energy Efficiency
92%
The energy-efficient design is a major plus for many buyers, particularly those using the switch in an always-on environment. Users appreciate the switch’s low power consumption, which aligns with its IEEE802.3az compliance and helps reduce their energy bills.
While most users are satisfied with the energy efficiency, some have mentioned that its energy-saving features aren't as prominent compared to more advanced switches in the same category. This might be a consideration for users who prioritize maximum energy savings.
Network Performance
89%
This device performs reliably, offering stable and fast gigabit speeds for home and office networks. Many users mention that they experience little to no downtime, with smooth data transfers even during peak usage times.
Although network performance is generally solid, a few users noticed occasional lag when using multiple high-demand devices simultaneously. This seems to be more of a concern in larger setups with heavier traffic loads.
Value for Money
92%
Users consistently feel that this switch offers excellent value for its price, particularly given the solid performance and basic management features it provides. It’s often seen as a reliable and affordable choice for small home and office networks.
While it’s considered a good value overall, some users felt that it could offer more advanced management options at this price point. Those seeking more complex features might find this switch limiting in terms of its customization options.
User-Friendliness of Management
85%
Many users appreciate the simplicity of the management interface, which allows for easy network control without being overly complicated. The VLAN and QoS options are useful for basic network optimization, making it a great choice for entry-level management.
However, some users have mentioned that the management interface lacks depth, with certain features being too basic for more advanced networking needs. Power users who require extensive customization might find it limiting.
Warranty & Support
90%
The 3-year limited warranty gives users peace of mind, and many have reported positive experiences with NETGEAR’s customer support. Buyers appreciate the added reliability and feel confident that any potential issues will be resolved promptly.
While most users are happy with the warranty, a few have mentioned slow response times from support when dealing with more complex issues. This doesn’t seem to be widespread, but it’s something to consider for users who might need more immediate assistance.
Design & Portability
87%
The compact design makes it easy to place this switch in various environments, whether on a desktop or mounted on the wall. Users like how unobtrusive it is, blending seamlessly into both home and office setups.
A few users have expressed that while it’s compact, the plastic construction can feel a bit flimsy when mounting it on the wall. Some felt it might not hold up as well in more demanding or industrial environments.
Compatibility with Devices
88%
The device is highly compatible with a wide range of devices, including computers, printers, and other networked devices. Users have reported smooth operation with various connected equipment, making it an easy fit in most setups.
Some users noted occasional compatibility issues with certain brands of networked devices. While these issues were infrequent, it’s something to consider for those with more specialized or proprietary equipment in their networks.
Advanced Features (VLAN, QoS)
75%
25%
For users who need basic network management, the VLAN, QoS, and IGMP features are beneficial for optimizing network traffic. These features are enough for most small-to-medium network setups and are easy to configure.
A number of users mentioned that these features are too basic for those looking for more in-depth control. Advanced users or businesses with complex networking needs might find these features lacking in customization and flexibility.
Customer Satisfaction
93%
Overall, the vast majority of users are highly satisfied with the switch’s performance and ease of use. Its reliable connectivity and silent operation, combined with the reasonable price, make it a popular choice for home and small office networks.
A few users did express concerns about the lack of advanced features and the limited management capabilities for more sophisticated setups. However, these complaints are minimal compared to the overall positive sentiment.

Suitable for:

The NETGEAR GS305E 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Managed Switch is ideal for home and small office networks that require reliable, high-speed connections. Its easy setup and fanless design make it perfect for users who want a simple, quiet solution without extensive technical knowledge. Homeowners adding more Ethernet ports or small businesses seeking an affordable yet effective networking option will find this switch a valuable addition. It’s also great for tech enthusiasts who need basic network management features like VLAN, QoS, and IGMP, making it suitable for everyday usage and basic optimization tasks.

Not suitable for:

However, this managed Ethernet switch may not be the best choice for users with more complex networking needs. Its basic management features, such as VLAN and QoS, are not advanced enough for larger, more demanding setups or enterprise-level networks. Users looking for deeper customization and advanced monitoring may find it limiting. Additionally, while it’s silent in operation, some users have expressed concerns about its durability and performance under heavy traffic, which could be an issue for those with high-capacity or more specialized network demands.

Specifications

  • Ports: 5 Gigabit Ethernet ports for high-speed wired connections.
  • Management Type: Smart Managed, offering basic configuration and monitoring features.
  • Mounting Options: Supports both desktop and wall-mount installation for versatile placement.
  • Design: Fanless design ensures silent operation, ideal for noise-sensitive environments.
  • Energy Efficiency: Compliant with IEEE802.3az, reducing power consumption without compromising performance.
  • VLAN Support: Supports VLAN for network segmentation and improved traffic management.
  • QoS Support: Quality of Service (QoS) for prioritizing network traffic to optimize performance.
  • IGMP Snooping: IGMP support for efficient multicast traffic management and reduced network load.
  • Warranty: Comes with a 3-year limited hardware warranty for added reliability.
  • Dimensions: Measures 12.99 x 7.87 x 1.57 inches, compact for easy integration into small spaces.
  • Weight: Weighs 1.17 lbs, lightweight for easy handling and mounting.
  • Speed: Gigabit Ethernet speeds for fast data transfer and minimal latency.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with most home and office network devices, including routers and computers.
  • Operating Environment: Operates in temperatures between 0°C to 50°C (32°F to 122°F).
  • Power Supply: Powered by an external 12V DC adapter, ensuring stable and efficient operation.
  • LED Indicators: LED indicators for easy monitoring of port status and network activity.

FAQ

Setting up this device is simple. Plug it into a power source, connect your Ethernet cables to the ports, and follow the quick setup instructions through its easy-to-use software interface. It doesn’t require complex installation steps, making it perfect for both tech-savvy users and beginners.

Yes, the device supports both desktop and wall-mount installation. If you prefer a space-saving option, you can easily mount it on the wall using the included hardware for a clean and organized setup.

Yes, this device is designed to work with most home and office network equipment, including routers, modems, and computers. It supports Gigabit Ethernet speeds, ensuring high-speed data transfer with devices that support Gigabit connections.

You can manage VLANs and QoS (Quality of Service) through the switch’s intuitive web-based interface. These features allow you to prioritize traffic and segment your network, optimizing the performance of your connected devices.

Yes, the switch is energy-efficient and complies with IEEE802.3az, which helps reduce power consumption while maintaining optimal performance. This is a great feature for users looking to lower their energy costs.

The switch comes with a 3-year limited hardware warranty, offering peace of mind and support should you encounter any technical issues during its usage.

Yes, this switch is ideal for small to medium-sized home offices. It provides five Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing you to easily connect multiple devices like computers, printers, and network storage for fast and reliable data transfer.

While the NETGEAR GS305E works well for small to medium networks, it may not be suitable for large-scale, high-traffic environments that require advanced network management features. For such scenarios, a more feature-rich, enterprise-level switch may be needed.

The fanless design allows the switch to operate silently, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments like home offices or bedrooms. However, it’s important to ensure proper ventilation around the switch to maintain optimal performance, especially during extended use.

Yes, the NETGEAR GS305E is well-suited for basic network monitoring, offering essential management features like VLAN and QoS. However, if you require more advanced monitoring capabilities, you may want to consider a more sophisticated model.