Overview

The NICGIGA 16-Port PoE+ Switch 250W offers an efficient solution for powering and managing network devices. This unmanaged switch supports IEEE 802.3af/at PoE standards, providing up to 30W per port with a total power budget of 250W. It’s designed for small to medium-sized networks, delivering both power and data over Ethernet in a compact 19-inch rackmount form. Whether you’re setting up a surveillance system or connecting multiple devices, this switch ensures reliable performance with minimal setup required.

Features & Benefits

This PoE switch includes several features that enhance its functionality and ease of use. The AI Watchdog feature automatically recovers offline devices, reducing the need for manual troubleshooting. Additionally, the One-Key VLAN mode boosts network security by isolating ports. With 2 Gigabit uplink ports and 1 SFP port, the switch offers fast data transfer for various network configurations. It also comes with 4KV lightning protection, ensuring that connected equipment is safeguarded even in harsh environments.

Best For

The NICGIGA 16-Port PoE+ Switch 250W is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses and home offices. It’s perfect for users who need a simple, plug-and-play PoE solution for devices like IP cameras, wireless access points, or network phones. IT professionals will also appreciate its minimal maintenance requirements, offering reliable performance without the need for complex configurations. If you require a cost-effective PoE switch with secure and efficient power management, this switch is a solid choice.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the ease of installation and stable performance of this 16-port switch. The AI Watchdog feature has received particular attention for its ability to automatically restore offline devices, saving time on manual resets. However, some users report that the power output may not be sufficient for high-demand devices like large cameras or multiple access points. Despite this, the switch’s reliable uptime and cost-effectiveness make it a popular choice for most network setups.

Pros

  • This PoE switch is easy to install, making it ideal for small businesses or home offices with minimal technical expertise.
  • The AI Watchdog feature automatically recovers offline devices, reducing manual troubleshooting.
  • With 16 ports and a 250W power budget, this device is well-suited for powering and connecting multiple PoE devices like IP cameras.
  • The compact 19-inch rackmount design offers flexibility for both rackmount and desktop installations.
  • Users appreciate the inclusion of VLAN support for improved network security.
  • The 4KV lightning protection ensures reliable operation in environments prone to electrical surges.

Cons

  • The 250W power budget may not be sufficient for networks with several high-power PoE devices running simultaneously.
  • Some users report limited configuration options due to the unmanaged nature of the switch.
  • This PoE switch might not meet the needs of larger businesses requiring more advanced network management features.
  • While setup is straightforward, more experienced users may find the lack of advanced settings restrictive.
  • Certain users have mentioned concerns about power output when connecting multiple high-demand devices.
  • The switch may not be suitable for those needing detailed diagnostics or control over network traffic.

Ratings

The ratings for the NICGIGA 16-Port PoE+ Switch 250W were derived from verified user feedback across multiple countries, languages, and platforms. We filtered out low-quality reviews, including spam, incentivized content, and exaggerated claims, ensuring that only genuine, high-quality feedback informed the results. Both the strengths and limitations of this device have been reflected in the scores, providing a well-rounded view of its performance in real-world usage scenarios.

Performance & Reliability
88%
Many users are satisfied with the overall performance of this device. It delivers reliable connectivity, providing steady power and data transfer for a variety of devices. The robust power budget ensures smooth operation even during heavy usage, particularly in network setups for IP cameras and access points.
While most users are happy with its reliability, some have expressed concerns about occasional performance drops under high-demand scenarios. A few reviews mention that the device struggles to maintain stable power delivery when multiple high-power devices are connected simultaneously.
Ease of Setup
90%
Setup is a breeze with this PoE switch. Numerous users highlight how quick and easy the installation process is, particularly for businesses or home offices. The plug-and-play design means minimal configuration is required, making it ideal for users who want a hassle-free setup.
Some users mention that while the initial setup is simple, there may be a learning curve for users who want to configure advanced features like VLANs or manage network settings more deeply. However, these features are not the primary focus for most buyers.
Power Delivery & Efficiency
87%
The 250W power budget is a key selling point, allowing efficient power delivery to connected devices without compromising performance. Many buyers appreciate the smooth operation it offers, particularly for PoE devices like security cameras and wireless access points that rely on both power and data over Ethernet.
Some users, however, report that the power delivery might not be sufficient for high-demand devices or setups with numerous power-hungry devices. For these users, the power output may occasionally fall short, especially in larger-scale network setups.
Network Stability
85%
The switch is generally praised for its solid network stability, maintaining reliable connections across multiple devices. Many users find that the switch handles traffic well in small to medium-sized business setups without significant interruptions or lag.
However, a few users have reported occasional network drops or interference when using the switch in larger or more complex setups. These instances are rare, but they do raise concerns for buyers looking for a completely seamless experience in high-traffic environments.
Security Features (VLAN & Watchdog)
92%
The AI Watchdog and One-Key VLAN mode are standout features, greatly enhancing the security and reliability of the switch. Users highlight the automatic recovery function as a major advantage, reducing the need for manual troubleshooting and providing peace of mind in case of network disruptions.
Some users feel that these security features are underutilized in simpler setups and could be more beneficial in larger, more complex network environments. There is also a slight learning curve for configuring VLANs, which may not be immediately intuitive for all users.
Build Quality & Durability
84%
Users generally appreciate the solid build quality of this device, noting that it feels sturdy and well-constructed. The 19-inch rackmount design ensures it fits neatly into most server racks, offering durability for both desktop and rackmount installations.
A few users mentioned that the device feels slightly lightweight compared to other switches in its class. While it holds up well under normal conditions, some have expressed concerns about its long-term durability under heavy usage in high-stress environments.
Port Selection & Speed
90%
The port selection is highly appreciated, with 16 PoE+ ports and additional Gigabit uplink ports offering versatility for various networking needs. Many users find the fast data transfer capabilities useful for their business, especially with the addition of the SFP port for fiber connectivity.
Despite the solid port selection, a few users feel that the number of uplink ports could be increased for larger network setups. Additionally, while the ports are fast, some report that more advanced configurations would be required to fully maximize the speed in high-demand scenarios.
Customer Support & Warranty
80%
20%
Users generally appreciate the limited lifetime warranty, which offers a good level of reassurance for long-term use. Several customers report that when issues arise, the support team is helpful in providing troubleshooting assistance or warranty claims.
Some customers, however, have mentioned slower response times from customer support, especially during peak periods. There are occasional complaints about delays in receiving replacement units or assistance with complex issues, which has led to frustration for some buyers.
Size & Installation Flexibility
91%
The compact design of the switch allows for versatile installation options, whether mounted in a rack or used on a desktop. This flexibility is ideal for users who need a space-efficient solution that can adapt to different office environments or network setups.
A few users noted that while the design is compact, it may be slightly less accommodating for very tight or high-density installations. In certain cases, the unit's size might be a factor when attempting to place it in particularly cramped server rooms or offices.
Value for Money
92%
Users agree that this PoE switch provides excellent value for its price, especially considering the number of ports, power budget, and advanced features. Many buyers feel it offers a great balance between affordability and performance, making it an excellent choice for small to medium-sized businesses.
A few buyers feel that the price might be slightly higher than some other similar models on the market, especially if they do not need all the advanced features like AI Watchdog or VLAN support. However, most users agree that the overall value justifies the cost.
Power Output for High-Demand Devices
74%
26%
The 250W power output is generally sufficient for most devices in a typical business or home office setup. Many users are satisfied with how the switch powers multiple PoE+ devices without issues, including access points and security cameras.
Some users, particularly those with higher-demand equipment, report that the power output falls short when handling multiple power-hungry devices simultaneously. This has led to occasional issues where devices do not receive enough power to operate efficiently.
Long-Term Reliability
85%
Several users have shared positive experiences with the switch’s long-term performance, noting that it continues to work well even after extended use. The automatic recovery and power management features help ensure that it maintains reliable service over time.
On the flip side, a few buyers have mentioned concerns about the device’s longevity, especially under continuous, heavy-duty operation. While these concerns are not widespread, some users question whether it will perform as well in more demanding environments over the long term.

Suitable for:

The NICGIGA 16-Port PoE+ Switch 250W is an excellent choice for small to medium-sized businesses or home offices that need an efficient, plug-and-play networking solution. Its simple setup and compact design make it ideal for users with limited technical expertise or those seeking a straightforward, reliable solution for powering devices like IP cameras and access points. The switch’s 250W power budget and 16 ports provide ample connectivity, making it suitable for businesses setting up surveillance systems or expanding their office network. Additionally, IT professionals who need a hassle-free, low-maintenance device for everyday operations will appreciate the automatic power recovery and security features like the AI Watchdog and VLAN support.

Not suitable for:

This PoE switch may not be the best fit for users with more complex or high-demand networking setups. Larger businesses or environments with multiple high-power devices may find the 250W power budget limiting, as it could struggle to support several power-hungry devices simultaneously. Additionally, users requiring advanced configuration or granular control over network settings might find the unmanaged nature of the switch restrictive. Although the switch offers reliable performance for typical office applications, those seeking enhanced features or scalability for extensive, high-traffic networks might want to explore more advanced models with additional power or management capabilities.

Specifications

  • Ports: The switch features 16 Ethernet ports, offering connectivity for multiple devices in a network setup.
  • PoE Power Budget: It provides a total PoE power budget of 250W, which is shared across all connected devices.
  • PoE Standard: Supports IEEE 802.3af/at PoE standards, delivering both data and power over Ethernet cables.
  • Max Power per Port: Each port can deliver up to 30W of power, suitable for most PoE+ devices such as cameras and access points.
  • VLAN Support: The device supports VLAN functionality, allowing users to segment networks for enhanced security and performance.
  • Uplink Ports: Equipped with 2 Gigabit RJ45 uplink ports for faster data transfer between switches or network devices.
  • SFP Port: Includes 1 SFP port for fiber optic connections, expanding network reach over longer distances.
  • Lightning Protection: Features 4KV lightning protection to safeguard connected equipment from electrical surges caused by storms or power fluctuations.
  • AI Watchdog: Built-in AI Watchdog automatically detects offline devices and recovers them by rebooting if necessary.
  • Rackmount Design: The switch has a compact 19-inch rackmount design, making it ideal for integration into server racks.
  • Power Recovery: The automatic power recovery feature ensures minimal downtime by rebooting devices that lose connection.
  • Form Factor: The device is designed for both rackmount and desktop installation, offering flexibility for different setups.
  • Weight: Weighs 4.49 lbs, which is lightweight enough for easy installation in server racks or desktop placements.
  • Dimensions: The switch measures 10.6 x 7.1 x 1.7 inches, making it compact for space-efficient installations.
  • Network Type: It is an unmanaged network switch, designed for plug-and-play operation with no complex setup required.
  • Warranty: Includes a limited lifetime warranty, ensuring long-term reliability and customer support.
  • Power Supply: Operates using an internal power supply, compatible with standard AC power inputs.
  • Temperature Range: Supports a wide operating temperature range, making it suitable for use in various environments.

FAQ

Each port can deliver up to 30W of power, which is suitable for most PoE+ devices, including IP cameras, access points, and small network devices.

The switch is designed for easy installation. Simply connect your devices to the Ethernet ports, and it’s ready to power up. You can mount it in a standard 19-inch rack or place it on a desktop.

This is an unmanaged switch, so it doesn’t offer advanced features like traffic prioritization or network segmentation. It's designed for plug-and-play setups with minimal configuration, making it easy for smaller businesses and home offices.

The AI Watchdog monitors connected devices and automatically reboots them if they go offline, which helps reduce downtime and minimizes the need for manual intervention.

While the 250W power budget is suitable for most PoE+ devices, users with high-demand equipment, such as high-power IP cameras or large wireless access points, may find the power output insufficient when using multiple devices at once.

Yes, this PoE+ switch supports both IEEE 802.3af and 802.3at standards, so it can power both older and newer PoE devices without issue.

The NICGIGA switch includes 4KV lightning protection, which helps safeguard your network equipment from electrical surges and spikes, making it suitable for environments with unpredictable weather or unstable power sources.

This switch is ideal for powering and connecting devices like IP cameras, VoIP phones, wireless access points, and networked security devices. It delivers both power and data through a single Ethernet cable.

The One-Key VLAN mode allows you to easily segment your network for improved security. By creating virtual networks, you can isolate sensitive devices or data traffic from the rest of your infrastructure.

This device is designed for indoor use and does not have a weatherproof casing, so it may not be suitable for direct outdoor deployment. However, its 4KV lightning protection provides some resilience against environmental surges.