Description
D-Link DGS-1520-28 Layer 3 Switch
Power your network with a next-generation, stackable Layer 3 smart managed switch that combines enterprise-grade performance with flexible port configurations. The D-Link DGS-1520-28 is designed to seamlessly aggregate Gigabit Ethernet devices, deliver robust routing capabilities, and simplify network management in small to mid-size enterprise environments. Built for reliability and scalability, this switch brings Layer 3 routing, advanced security, and flexible uplink options into a compact, stackable enclosure. Whether you’re deploying a campus distribution layer, a core-to-distribution backbone, or a compact data center edge, the DGS-1520-28 combines speed, control, and efficiency in one powerful device.
- The next-generation Layer 3 Stackable Smart Managed switch that aggregates your Gigabit network with flexible uplinks and stacking capabilities to grow with your business needs.
- Port density options include 24 or 48 x 10/100/1000Base-T Ethernet ports, with PoE options available on 20 or 44 of those ports for powering IP cameras, phones, and wireless access points.
- Advanced Layer 3 features such as static routing, VLANs, ACLs, and QoS to prioritize mission-critical traffic and optimize performance across the network core and edge.
- Four 2.5 GbE uplink ports for fast inter-switch links and high-speed connections to servers or core switches, enabling efficient trunking and reduced bottlenecks.
- Designed for flexibility and resilience with a stackable architecture, centralized management, and robust security to support growing organizations and evolving network demands.
Technical Details of D-Link DGS-1520-28 Layer 3 Switch
- Model: DGS-1520-28 Layer 3 Switch
- Port configuration: 24 or 48 x 10/100/1000Base-T Ethernet ports (model dependent)
- PoE capability: 20 or 44 x 10/100/1000Base-T PoE ports (model dependent)
- Uplink ports: 4 x 2.5 GbE ports for high-speed uplinks and inter-switch connections
- Layer 3 functionality: Static routing, VLAN routing, ACLs, QoS, and IPv6 support for enterprise-grade routing and traffic control
- Management options: Web-based GUI, CLI, and SNMP for centralized monitoring and configuration
- Stacking: Supports stacking with other DGS-1520 family switches to form a scalable, high-availability network
How to install D-Link DGS-1520-28 Layer 3 Switch
Installing the DGS-1520-28 is a straightforward process designed to minimize downtime while maximizing your network’s performance and reliability. Before you begin, plan your topology by identifying which ports will serve end devices, which will handle PoE-powered equipment, and how you will connect uplinks to the core or distribution switches. This planning helps you allocate PoE budgets effectively and design a clean, scalable network layout.
Step 1: Unbox and verify components. Confirm you have the switch, mounting hardware (if rack-mounting), support rails (for rack installation), power cables, and any required console cables. Inspect the device for any shipping damage and ensure you have access to documentation for initial configuration.
Step 2: Choose your installation method. The DGS-1520-28 is designed for rack installation in a standard 19-inch rack, but it can also be deployed as a desktop switch in smaller setups. If you’re mounting in a rack, securely bolt the unit to minimize vibration and airflow obstruction. Ensure adequate ventilation and avoid obstructing the intake or exhaust vents.
Step 3: Power and initial cabling. Connect the switch to a reliable power source using the appropriate power cord. Plan your cable runs to minimize cross-talk and interference. Group PoE-powered devices on PoE-capable ports and separate data-only devices on non-PoE ports to optimize power budgeting and performance. Route cables neatly to simplify maintenance and future expansion.
Step 4: Connect uplinks and endpoints. Link distribution or core switches via the 2.5 GbE uplink ports to establish a high-speed backbone. Attach access devices such as desktops, VoIP phones, cameras, and wireless access points to the 10/100/1000Base-T ports. If your network design includes PoE devices, enable PoE on eligible ports and monitor power consumption to stay within the switch’s PoE budget.
Step 5: Access the management interface. Start by connecting a management workstation to any available Ethernet port on the switch. Launch a web browser and enter the switch’s default IP address (consult the user manual for the exact address and credentials). From the web GUI or CLI, perform an initial configuration that aligns with your network policy. Create VLANs to segment traffic, set up static routes if your network requires inter-VLAN routing, and configure QoS to prioritize latency-sensitive applications.
Step 6: Configure security and access controls. Implement user authentication, enable role-based access, and adjust ACLs to restrict traffic flows where needed. Update firmware to the latest version to ensure you have the most recent security patches and feature enhancements. If you plan to manage multiple switches centrally, enable SNMP and configure a centralized management solution for consistency across your network.
Step 7: Validate performance and monitor. After configuration, test connectivity between devices, verify PoE power delivery to PoE devices, and confirm the stability of uplink connections. Use the switch’s monitoring tools to observe port statistics, error rates, and traffic distribution. Regularly review logs, alerts, and performance metrics to detect anomalies early and tune QoS or VLAN configurations as your network grows.
Step 8: Document the configuration. Maintain a current network map, including IP addressing, VLAN assignments, QoS policies, and PoE budgets. Documenting the initial setup makes future expansion faster and reduces the risk of misconfigurations during changes or troubleshooting.
Step 9: Plan for resilience. If you deploy a stacked configuration, ensure your stacking cables are correctly linked between units. Consider enabling link aggregation where appropriate to increase bandwidth and provide failover protection. Establish a maintenance window to apply firmware updates and conduct periodic tests to verify system resilience and performance continuity under load.
Step 10: Ongoing management. Schedule regular firmware updates, monitor device health, and review security settings. Use the switch’s centralized management capabilities to push consistent policies to other switches in your network fabric, ensuring uniform QoS, security, and configuration across the stack.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the DGS-1520-28 Layer 3 Switch best suited for? It is designed for small to mid-size networks that require robust Layer 3 routing, high port density, PoE capability, and scalable stacking for future growth.
- Does this switch support PoE? Yes, depending on the model there are 20 or 44 PoE-enabled 10/100/1000Base-T ports to power IP cameras, phones, and wireless access points, reducing the need for separate power supplies for PoE devices.
- Can the switch be stacked with other switches? Yes, the DGS-1520-28 supports stacking with other DGS-1520 series switches, enabling a scalable and resilient network fabric.
- Which management options are available? The switch can be managed via a web-based GUI, CLI, and SNMP for centralized monitoring and configuration, making it suitable for both day-to-day operations and larger IT environments.
- What Layer 3 features does it offer? It provides static routing, VLAN creation and routing, ACLs for traffic control, QoS for prioritizing critical applications, and IPv6 support to future-proof your network.
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