A managed switch is a networking device that is designed to be configurable and controllable through software. It is typically used in enterprise or corporate network environments to provide more advanced networking capabilities than those offered by a basic, unmanaged switch.
Managed switches offer a range of features and capabilities that allow network administrators to customize and control the operation of the switch. These features may include:
VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) support: Managed switches often allow the creation of multiple VLANs on the network, which can be used to segment traffic and improve network security and performance.
Quality of Service (QoS): Managed switches can be configured to prioritize certain types of traffic, such as voice or video, over others, ensuring that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth.
Security: Managed switches may offer features such as port security and access control lists (ACLs) to help secure the network against unauthorized access and malicious attacks.
Monitoring and management: Managed switches typically offer a range of tools and features for monitoring and managing the operation of the switch, including port mirroring, SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) support, and remote management capabilities.
Overall, managed switches offer a higher level of control and customization than unmanaged switches, and are well-suited for use in large, complex network environments where advanced networking capabilities are required.