Managed vs Unmanaged Switch

[hap0113]

I am in the process of installing a switch on our existing system. I was wondering if someone can elaborate more on the difference between a managed vs an unmanaged switch.

[zon]

I could be wrong here but I think these are the major differences.

A managed switch allows you to interface with the unit (like a router almost) and do things like assign port speeds, assign ip addresses to specific ports, etc. It will have software configurable options.

A un-managed port will just memorize IP addresses on ports, automatic speed detection, things of that nature. This unit won't allow you to interface with it.

[mbossman2]

Zon is correct. A managed switch allows to you connect remotely to the switch and make certain changes (port speeds, VLAN configuration etc) as well as monitor the switch's performance.

The other big difference is cost. Usually a managed switch has a higher cost associated with it.

Depending upon your specific implementation, a managed switch may make sense. For example: a network that spans multiple floors (or locations) where the switches are not readily (quickly) accessible or situations where changes are made on a "steady" basis.