Overview

The TRENDnet TPE-TG44G 8-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch is a compact and efficient unmanaged switch designed to simplify networking in small to medium-sized environments. With 8 ports and 4 PoE+ ports, it supports powering devices like IP cameras or wireless access points directly over Ethernet, making it a versatile solution. The fanless design ensures quiet operation, a key feature for those looking to avoid noisy equipment in offices or other noise-sensitive settings. Its plug-and-play functionality makes it easy to deploy, even for users without extensive networking experience.

Features & Benefits

This PoE+ switch offers a solid 60W power budget that can power multiple devices while ensuring efficient data transmission. With a 16Gbps switching capacity, it delivers fast and reliable performance, even when handling multiple devices simultaneously. It is also NDAA and TAA compliant, making it a suitable choice for government installations. Additionally, the device comes with lifetime protection and dependable customer support, which adds an extra layer of security for businesses looking for long-term reliability in their network infrastructure.

Best For

The TRENDnet TPE-TG44G 8-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch is an excellent option for small businesses and home offices that require PoE support without the complexity of managed switches. Its simple, plug-and-play setup is ideal for users seeking easy network expansion without needing advanced configuration. Additionally, its fanless design makes it perfect for environments where noise is a concern, such as offices or recording studios. Whether you're powering cameras, access points, or other PoE-enabled devices, this switch provides a reliable, straightforward solution.

User Feedback

The majority of users have praised this PoE+ switch for its reliability and ease of use. Many appreciate the fact that it works straight out of the box with minimal setup required. Its silent, fanless design is a significant plus for those who want to avoid noisy equipment in their workspace. However, some users have mentioned that the switch lacks more advanced configuration options, making it less suitable for those who need granular control over their network. Overall, it's a solid choice for users who need a simple, quiet, and effective networking solution.

Pros

  • This PoE+ switch is incredibly easy to set up, making it perfect for small businesses and home offices.
  • Its fanless design operates silently, which is a major advantage in noise-sensitive environments.
  • The 60W PoE power budget is more than adequate for powering devices like cameras and access points.
  • Compact size allows it to fit in tight spaces without taking up much room, ideal for home office setups.
  • With 16Gbps switching capacity, this device offers reliable and fast data transfer, even in small to medium-sized networks.
  • The lifetime protection and responsive customer support add peace of mind for long-term use.

Cons

  • Advanced configuration options are limited, making it unsuitable for users needing detailed network management features.
  • Some users felt the 60W PoE power budget could be restrictive for setups requiring higher power for more demanding devices.
  • This device is unmanaged, so it lacks support for features like VLANs or QoS, which may be a dealbreaker for some network setups.
  • The switch does not offer active cooling, so it might not be ideal for environments where the network load is consistently high.
  • A few users noted that its PoE+ capabilities are not sufficient for larger-scale operations or more power-hungry devices.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user feedback from multiple platforms and languages, the scores for the TRENDnet TPE-TG44G 8-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch reflect both its strengths and a few areas for improvement. All spam, bot, and incentivized reviews have been filtered out to ensure only authentic feedback is considered. Across the board, users have praised its reliability and ease of use, although some have pointed out limited advanced configuration options for power users. The aggregated reviews come from a diverse set of sources, offering a comprehensive view of this switch's performance.

Value for Money
91%
Many users feel that this network switch offers excellent value for its price, providing solid performance and reliability for small to medium-sized networks. The 8 ports and 60W PoE power budget make it a cost-effective choice for businesses requiring a simple network expansion solution.
Some users feel that while the price is reasonable, it might not offer enough advanced features for larger, more complex setups. The lack of configuration options can limit its appeal for users needing more control over their network.
Ease of Use
88%
Buyers consistently mention the plug-and-play setup as one of the key advantages of this PoE+ switch. Its simplicity makes it a great choice for users who don’t want to spend time on complicated configuration, especially in small office or home office environments.
A few users point out that while it’s easy to use, there aren’t many advanced configuration options available. This may limit its usefulness for more tech-savvy users who need greater control over their network's settings.
Power Over Ethernet (PoE) Performance
87%
The 4 PoE+ ports deliver reliable power to devices such as cameras, access points, and IP phones. Many reviewers praise its ability to efficiently handle multiple devices without performance drops, making it ideal for expanding home or small office networks.
Some users report that the total 60W power budget may not be sufficient for larger setups requiring more power-hungry devices. Additionally, while PoE+ works well for most needs, it might not be robust enough for businesses with higher power requirements.
Build Quality
85%
Reviewers generally appreciate the solid metal housing, which provides durability while also helping the device stay cool. The compact size makes it easy to fit into tight spaces, and the fanless design reduces the risk of overheating.
A few users have mentioned that the build, while sturdy, feels a bit basic compared to other higher-end switches. Additionally, the lack of a fan means it may not cool as efficiently under heavy load, though most users don't report any serious issues in this regard.
Quiet Operation
93%
Many users highlight the fanless design as a major selling point. The absence of a fan ensures that the device operates silently, making it perfect for home offices or small businesses where noise can be a distraction.
Although the fanless design is a positive for quiet environments, some users worry about its ability to cool effectively in warmer settings. However, most users find the device remains cool even without active cooling under typical conditions.
Setup/Installation
89%
Buyers consistently report that setting up this device is a breeze. The plug-and-play functionality eliminates the need for complex setup, allowing users to quickly expand their network without hassle or technical know-how.
A few users expressed that while setup is easy, there is limited guidance for troubleshooting advanced issues, which could be frustrating for non-expert users. Some wished for a more robust manual or access to online resources for problem-solving.
Reliability
90%
This switch is praised for its stability and consistent performance. Users report that it continues to function without hiccups over extended periods, making it a trustworthy option for businesses and home offices that rely on always-on network devices.
While reliability is generally strong, a few users have had isolated experiences with devices not powering up properly or network drops. These reports are rare but may be a concern for those needing guaranteed uptime.
Advanced Configuration Options
55%
45%
For most users, the simplicity of this switch's setup and operation is a plus. It’s designed for those who don’t need to delve into complex settings, making it easy to deploy right out of the box.
Power users who require more advanced configuration options may be disappointed. The lack of features such as VLAN support, QoS settings, or more granular control over network behavior limits its flexibility for complex network setups.
Customer Support
80%
20%
Many users report positive experiences with TRENDnet's customer support, citing prompt responses and helpful solutions to common issues. This can give peace of mind to those worried about future support needs.
Some buyers have found that customer service can sometimes be slow or less responsive during busy times. There have been a few reports of long wait times for non-urgent issues, which can be frustrating for customers in need of quick assistance.
Network Speed & Performance
88%
Users consistently praise the device’s reliable data throughput. With a 16Gbps switching capacity, this switch can handle the typical demands of small businesses and home offices, ensuring stable and fast network performance.
A few users have mentioned that the network performance drops slightly under heavy traffic, especially with multiple devices running at once. However, this issue is not widespread and tends to occur in more demanding setups.
Size & Portability
85%
The compact size makes this PoE+ switch easy to integrate into small spaces, whether it’s tucked into a server rack or placed discreetly on a desk. Users appreciate how its small footprint doesn’t take up much room in crowded environments.
While compact, the size might not be ideal for users needing to manage a lot of cables or connections in tight spots. Some users find that the small form factor means limited room for airflow, though this is less of a concern with the fanless design.
Compliance with Regulations
95%
This network switch’s NDAA and TAA compliance is a major selling point for government contractors and agencies. Users appreciate the peace of mind knowing that it meets the necessary standards for government installations.
While this feature is crucial for certain buyers, those who do not need compliance may feel it's unnecessary. Some users have mentioned that it adds to the cost without offering any additional benefit for non-government applications.

Suitable for:

The TRENDnet TPE-TG44G 8-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch is an excellent choice for small businesses, home offices, and other users who need a simple, reliable network expansion solution. With its plug-and-play setup, this switch is ideal for those who want to quickly add PoE devices like IP cameras or access points without complicated configuration. The fanless design is perfect for noise-sensitive environments, while the 60W PoE power budget is sufficient for most everyday use cases. This device is especially beneficial for users who need a compact and efficient networking solution that doesn't require advanced settings or ongoing maintenance.

Not suitable for:

While the TRENDnet TPE-TG44G 8-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch excels in ease of use and affordability, it may not be the best option for users with more complex network needs. Those requiring advanced configuration options, such as VLAN support or Quality of Service (QoS) settings, may find this switch limiting. It also may not provide enough PoE power for larger setups that demand higher power devices. Additionally, its lack of fan-based cooling may cause concerns for environments with higher heat output or more intensive network traffic, where active cooling might be required for optimal performance.

Specifications

  • Ports: This switch has 8 ports in total, including 4 PoE+ ports for powering connected devices.
  • PoE Power Budget: Supports a total PoE power budget of 60W across the 4 PoE+ ports.
  • PoE Standard: Supports the PoE+ (802.3at) standard, providing up to 30W per port for compatible devices.
  • Switching Capacity: Offers a total switching capacity of 16Gbps for efficient data transfer.
  • Network Standard: Complies with IEEE 802.3, 802.3u, 802.3ab, and 802.3at standards for network connectivity.
  • Design: Features a fanless design for silent operation, ideal for noise-sensitive environments.
  • Dimensions: Compact size: 5.9 x 3.8 x 1.1 inches, making it easy to fit into tight spaces.
  • Build Quality: Constructed with a durable metal housing for better heat dissipation and long-term durability.
  • Compliance: NDAA and TAA compliant, making it suitable for government installations and secure environments.
  • Warranty: Comes with lifetime protection and reliable customer support for peace of mind.
  • Installation: Supports plug-and-play installation with no configuration required, making setup simple.
  • Power Input: Operates with an external AC power adapter, compatible with standard power outlets.
  • Temperature Range: Designed to operate in environments with a temperature range of 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F).
  • Port Speed: Each port supports gigabit (1000Mbps) speeds for fast and reliable data transmission.
  • Power over Ethernet (PoE) Range: The PoE+ ports are capable of powering devices up to a maximum distance of 100 meters (328 feet).
  • Traffic Management: As an unmanaged switch, it has no traffic management features like VLAN or QoS.
  • Ethernet Cabling: Requires Cat5e or higher Ethernet cables to ensure optimal performance and data transfer speeds.

FAQ

The TRENDnet TPE-TG44G 8-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch is a compact, unmanaged network switch designed to provide Power over Ethernet (PoE) to connected devices. It supports up to 60W PoE power, ideal for powering devices like security cameras, phones, or access points. Setup is straightforward: just plug it in and connect your devices. It's perfect for small to medium-sized networks where easy installation and quiet operation are key.

PoE+ (Power over Ethernet Plus) enables this switch to deliver both data and power over a single Ethernet cable to connected devices, such as IP cameras, Wi-Fi access points, or VoIP phones. With 4 PoE+ ports, this switch can power devices that require up to 30W per port, with a total PoE power budget of 60W.

While this switch is excellent for small to medium-sized networks, it may not be ideal for large-scale enterprise environments. It offers 8 ports and a 60W PoE power budget, which might not meet the demands of larger installations or high-power devices. For larger setups, a more powerful switch with higher PoE output and more ports may be required.

This switch is not designed for outdoor use. It has a metal housing for durability but lacks weatherproofing features. It’s best used in indoor environments like small offices, home offices, or server rooms where noise sensitivity and compact design are priorities.

Yes, this device is plug-and-play. Simply connect the switch to your network router or modem, plug in your powered devices (such as cameras or access points), and the switch will automatically start delivering data and power over Ethernet without the need for any configuration.

The fanless design ensures silent operation, making this switch ideal for environments where noise can be a distraction, like home offices or small businesses. Without fans, it also eliminates the risk of mechanical failure and reduces energy consumption.

This switch is unmanaged, meaning it does not support VLANs, QoS, or other advanced network management features. It is best suited for users who need basic network expansion without the need for detailed configurations. For more complex networking, consider a managed switch.

The TRENDnet TPE-TG44G is generally considered reliable for long-term use in small to medium-sized networks. It’s backed by lifetime protection, which assures users of support and warranty throughout the product’s lifespan. The fanless design also contributes to its durability by reducing heat buildup.

This switch supports a total PoE power budget of 60W, which is split across the four PoE+ ports. Each port can provide up to 30W of power, suitable for most PoE-enabled devices like IP cameras or Wi-Fi access points. However, for devices requiring more power, you may need a switch with a higher PoE power budget.

Yes, the switch is NDAA and TAA compliant, making it suitable for use in government installations or environments with specific compliance requirements. This ensures that the switch meets the standards set by the U.S. government for secure networking equipment.