Netgear GS116EPP: 16-Port Gigabit Easy Smart PoE+ Switch with SFP Uplink

The Netgear GS116EPP is a 16-port Gigabit Ethernet switch engineered for small to medium-sized networks that demand reliable power delivery and smart control without complex configuration. This easy smart PoE+ switch blends plug‑and‑play simplicity with robust feature sets designed to simplify network management, power devices, and optimize traffic all in one compact, energy‑efficient unit. With a total PoE budget of 231W and a dedicated SFP uplink port, the GS116EPP is ideally suited for powering IP cameras, VoIP phones, wireless access points, and other PoE-enabled devices while keeping data flowing smoothly between desktops, servers, and network edge devices. Whether you’re expanding a small office, upgrading a retail storefront, or building a campus edge, this switch delivers dependable performance, flexible management, and scalable capabilities to support growing networks.

• 16 Gigabit Ethernet ports provide high‑speed, reliable connections for workstations, printers, cameras, APs, and IP phones, delivering full‑duplex performance with minimal latency for everyday business tasks and multimedia workloads.
• 1 dedicated SFP uplink port enables fiber or high‑speed backhaul to the core network, giving you flexible, scalable connectivity options beyond copper Ethernet for resilient, long‑distance links.
• Power over Ethernet Plus (PoE+) with 231W budget supports up to compatible devices across your network, simplifying deployment of powered devices without needing separate power bricks—ideal for IP cameras, phones, and wireless APs.
• Easy Smart management combines a user‑friendly web interface with essential Layer 2 features such as VLANs, QoS, and ACLs, helping you segment traffic, prioritize critical applications, and optimize bandwidth without a full enterprise switch.
• Energy‑efficient, reliable operation features like fanless design and low power consumption keep noise and heat to a minimum, while standard Ethernet protections and robust hardware deliver stable, long‑term performance for business environments.

Technical Details of Netgear GS116EPP Ethernet Switch

• Model: GS116EPP, 16 × 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet ports with 1 × SFP uplink
• PoE Budget: 231 W total available for powering PoE devices across all ports
• PoE Standards: Supports PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at) and PoE (IEEE 802.3af) as applicable per port to maximize compatibility
• Performance: Non‑blocking switching capacity and full‑duplex operation for smooth, simultaneous data and PoE delivery
• Management: Easy Smart features including VLANs, QoS, port security, and basic monitoring via web interface
• Uplink: 1 dedicated SFP port for fiber or high‑speed copper backhaul
• Power and Installation: Compact, rack‑mountable design with simple power integration for office or retail spaces
• Operating Environment: Designed for reliable operation in typical office conditions with low noise and minimal heat output

How to Install Netgear GS116EPP

Setting up the GS116EPP is straightforward and designed to be quick whether you are expanding an existing network or starting a new one. Follow these practical steps to deploy a robust PoE+ switch that delivers power and data to your devices:

• Place the switch on a stable surface or mount it in a standard 19‑inch rack as needed for your space. Ensure there is adequate ventilation in the installation area.
• Connect the power supply to a suitable electrical outlet and verify the switch powers on with the indicator LEDs indicating normal operation.
• Connect your PoE devices—such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points—to the 16 Gigabit RJ45 ports. If you plan to power devices from a wired uplink, connect them to the appropriate ports to ensure PoE is distributed as configured.
• Link the GS116EPP to your network core by plugging the SFP uplink port into a fiber or high‑speed copper port on your router, gateway, or another switch. This uplink provides the backbone bandwidth for all connected devices.
• Access the Easy Smart management interface through the switch’s web UI to configure VLANs, QoS, and any port security settings. Use the interface to enable PoE schedules, monitor power usage per port, and verify that critical devices receive the required bandwidth and power.

Frequently asked questions

What is the PoE budget of the GS116EPP?
The GS116EPP provides a total PoE budget of 231W, enabling you to power multiple PoE+ devices across the 16 ports without needing separate power adapters for each device. This consolidates power management and simplifies deployment in office, retail, or campus environments.

Which devices can be powered by PoE on this switch?
The PoE+ capability supports devices that require more power, such as high‑definition IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points. Per‑port power is allocated up to PoE+ limits, with total consumption constrained by the 231W budget.

Does the GS116EPP support VLANs and QoS?
Yes. The Easy Smart management features include VLAN creation and basic QoS to prioritize time‑sensitive applications like voice and video, helping ensure reliable performance for critical services while maintaining overall network efficiency.

What kind of uplink does the switch offer?
The GS116EPP includes 1 dedicated SFP uplink port for fiber or high‑speed copper backhaul, enabling flexible, scalable connections to your core network or data center, and providing longer‑distance links where needed.

Can this switch be rack‑mounted?
Yes. The GS116EPP is designed for easy deployment in rack environments or on a flat surface, aligning with standard 19‑inch racking systems for neat and organized network installations.

Is this switch suitable for small offices or growing networks?
Absolutely. With 16 Gigabit ports, PoE+ support, a dedicated SFP uplink, and essential Easy Smart management, the GS116EPP is ideal for small to mid‑sized networks that require power delivery to devices and manageable, scalable network control without the complexity of a full enterprise switch.

What about energy efficiency and quiet operation?
The switch emphasizes energy efficiency and a quiet, fanless design in typical office environments, helping maintain a comfortable workspace while delivering reliable service. Power‑saving features and efficient hardware help minimize operating costs over time.

Is the device compatible with other Netgear switches?
Yes. The GS116EPP is designed to work with other Netgear devices in standard Layer 2 networks. You can integrate it into existing infrastructure to extend PoE capabilities and expand network capacity as your needs grow.

How can I monitor PoE usage and port status?
The Easy Smart interface provides per‑port visibility for PoE usage, port status, and basic network health indicators. This allows you to identify powered devices, manage energy consumption, and adjust configurations to optimize performance.

What deployment scenarios benefit most from the GS116EPP?
Ideal for small offices, retail storefronts, schools, or branch locations needing to power cameras or phones and connect multiple devices with a single, compact, easy‑to‑manage switch. It’s particularly advantageous when a fiber uplink is required for backhaul or integrating with a larger network.