HPE FlexNetwork 5140 EI Switch – 8G 2SFP 2GT Combo EI

The HPE FlexNetwork 5140 EI Switch is a robust, scalable Gigabit Ethernet solution designed to power growing networks with reliable Layer 3 routing, flexible uplink options, and intelligent features that simplify management. Built for edge and distribution deployments in small to mid-sized enterprises, this switch blends performance with energy efficiency, helping you streamline operations while reducing total cost of ownership. With support for static routing, OSPF and RIP, IPv6, PoE+, and energy‑savvy Ethernet, the 5140 EI delivers a future‑proof foundation for converged voice, video, and data networks.

• Layer 3 routing at your edge — The 5140 EI supports static routing plus dynamic routing protocols such as OSPF and RIP, enabling accurate and scalable routing decisions across VLANs and subnets. This makes inter-VLAN communication efficient and predictable, reducing bandwidth waste and improving network performance for critical applications.
• Flexible uplinks for growth — Featuring a combination of fixed Gigabit ports and uplink options, this switch provides versatile connectivity to servers, core switches, and storage networks. The 2 SFP ports along with 2GT uplink options deliver reliable, high‑speed expansion paths to meet evolving bandwidth needs without adding complexity.
• Power over Ethernet Plus (PoE+) support — Enable seamless deployment of IP phones, wireless access points, cameras, and other PoE devices without extra cabling or power infrastructure. PoE+ simplifies network design, reduces clutter, and supports scalable device counts in conference rooms, campuses, and storefronts.
• Security and traffic control — Built‑in ACLs, QoS, and IPv6 support help protect your network while ensuring critical applications get the bandwidth they deserve. The 5140 EI also provides secure management access, role‑based controls, and policies that prevent misuse and limit exposure in mixed‑traffic environments.
• Energy efficiency and reliability — Energy Efficient Ethernet (IEEE 802.3az) reduces power consumption during low traffic periods, lowering operational costs. The switch is designed for continuous uptime and reliable operation in enterprise networks, with straightforward maintenance and firmware update paths to keep security current.

Technical Details of HPE FlexNetwork 5140 EI Switch

• Model: HPE FlexNetwork 5140 EI Switch Series
• Port configuration: 8 fixed Gigabit Ethernet ports plus 2 SFP uplink ports; additional 2GT combo uplinks for expansion
• PoE support: PoE+ capable to power compatible devices such as IP phones, cameras, and wireless APs
• Layer 3 features: Static routing, OSPF, and RIP to enable efficient routing between VLANs and subnets
• IPv6 support: Full IPv6 routing and addressing compatibility for modern networks
• Energy efficiency: Energy Efficient Ethernet (IEEE 802.3az) to reduce power consumption during low traffic
• Management and security: ACLs, QoS, basic firewall-like controls, and standard management interfaces for configuration and monitoring
• Form factor and scalability: Designed for edge deployments with room for growth in small to mid-sized networks

How to install HPE FlexNetwork 5140 EI Switch

• 1. Prepare the switch and space — Unbox the unit and place it in an appropriate rack‑mount shelf or on a stable surface. Ensure proper airflow around the device and verify that the power source is accessible and within the switch’s rated requirements.
• 2. Connect power and uplinks — Connect the switch to a reliable power source and attach the uplink connections using the fixed Gigabit ports, SFP uplinks, and any 2GT combo ports as required by your network design. If you’re using PoE devices, plan for adequate power budgets across the PoE+ ports.
• 3. Configure basic network settings — Access the switch management interface (CLI or web UI) and set the management IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway. Enable essential services such as SNMP for monitoring and ensure secure administrator access with strong credentials.
• 4. Create VLANs and assign ports — Define your VLANs to segment traffic for voice, data, and video. Bind the appropriate access ports to their respective VLANs and configure trunking on uplink ports if inter‑VLAN routing is required.
• 5. Implement routing, security, and QoS — Configure static routes or enable OSPF/RIP as needed, apply ACLs to restrict traffic flows, and set up QoS policies to prioritize latency‑sensitive applications. Save the configuration and verify connectivity across devices.

Frequently asked questions

• What does the HPE FlexNetwork 5140 EI Switch offer for growing networks? — It provides scalable Layer 3 routing, PoE+ support for powering edge devices, IPv6 readiness, energy‑efficient operation, and flexible uplink options that adapt as your network expands.
• Which environments is the 5140 EI best suited for? — Ideal for edge and distribution layers in small to mid‑sized enterprises, branch offices, retail environments, and campuses where reliable Ethernet switching, routing, and PoE are essential.
• Does it support IPv6 and modern security features? — Yes, the switch includes IPv6 support and network security features such as ACLs and QoS to manage traffic and protect devices on the network.
• How does PoE+ benefit deployments? — PoE+ eliminates extra cabling and power sources for devices like IP phones, wireless access points, and cameras, enabling faster deployment and centralized management of power consumption.
• Is energy efficiency important for this switch? — The switch incorporates Energy Efficient Ethernet to reduce power usage during low traffic periods, helping reduce operating costs over time without sacrificing performance.