PoE vs PoE+ vs PoE++: Which PoE Switch to Pick?

Ethernet cables are used for vast networking topologies like residential, commercial, and industrial to meet the fast, gigabit, or 10 gigabit speed and bandwidth requirements. Have you ever wondered if there is also a technology named PoE Switch in network switch that facilitates different devices? Like IP cameras, VoIP devices, etc. 

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a technology that will save time and investment and provide ease in installing cables in narrow areas and with Local Area Networks (LANs). If you look in-depth you might find the types of Power over Ethernet Switches PoE vs PoE+ vs PoE++ but are you familiar with these types? In this blog, let’s shed some light on the technical information regarding the PoE Network Switches. You will also learn the difference between PoE vs PoE+ vs PoE++ separately. 

Also Read: Different Types and Benefits of Power over Ethernet (PoE)

PoE vs PoE+ vs PoE++ Difference

Power over Ethernet was defined in 2003 and was named under IEEE 802.3af standard and was used for Powered Devices (PD) such as VoIP phones to receive 12.5 watts of power using 2 of the four twisted pairs (Cat5e Ethernet Cable or Cat6 Ethernet Cable) respectively. 

The overall difference between PoE, PoE+, and PoE++ is described below. Read this thoroughly to know the distinction.

Note: PoE++ or 4PPoE introduces two additional power types Type 3 up to 51 watts and Type 4 up to 100 watts. 

Network Cable Compatibility With PoE vs PoE+ vs PoE++

Bulk ethernet cables always come in front when used besides networking and utilize them for Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology. Different cables like Cat5, Cat5e ethernet cable, Cat6 LAN cable, and Cat6a cable show different compatibility according to the PoE Network Switch. Here is precise information for you to understand.

Key Point: Using a PoE switch requires a solid copper cable to transfer the electrical current. Like Cat5e Pure Copper Cable, Cat6 Bare Copper Cable, and Cat6a Solid Copper Cable all these cables show the best results for PoE technology. For IP cameras, VoIP phones, and other hardware devices that need signal transmission and power simultaneously. Besides there are some key points regarding the ethernet cables.

• Cat5e Ethernet Cable (PoE vs PoE+ Support) — Cat5e is the standard cable that is used for setting up small home networks and offices to connect devices to PoE Network Switches. 
• Cat6 Ethernet Cable (Full Support for PoE vs PoE++) but limited to type 4 (4PPoE) for 10 Gbps speed cat6 cable should be used under 50 meters in length. 
• Cat6a cable — it is the recommended cable for PoE vs PoE vs PoE in other words (Type 1, Type 2, Types 3, and Type 4). Cat6a has a constant speed of 10 Gbps and it can be used for industrial and commercial setups. 

For your ease consult the below PoE vs PoE+ vs PoE++ Reference Chart in detail, explaining the Switch Port Power, Suitable LAN cables, and Powered Device Power. 

The above chart explains the right information regarding the PoE-powered devices and thoroughly explains the cable and other important components. 

What is a PoE Switch?

PoE Switch also known as a PoE Network Switch merges Power over Ethernet Technology for smooth operations and saves extra cost for buying additional cables. The beauty of the PoE switch is that it has the potential to transfer signals and power to security cameras, VoIP telephones, etc. It ensures smooth operation and easy installations by reducing clutters. 

PoE vs PoE+ vs PoE++ Which is More Frequently Used?

IEEE has set some standards for the PoE to accommodate each networking device as per its capacity. Which PoE standard is frequently used is described below. 

PoE (Lower standard for small offices and residential needs) is used to connect with some legacy equipment or for low-power devices. The flaw in PoE technology is its limitation in connecting new devices with higher power demands. 

PoE+ (Medium Standard potentially used) is in high demand due to its compatibility and versatility with various devices. It delivers efficient power to IP cameras, WAPs (Wireless Access Points), VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), etc. 

PoE++ (High Standard potentially used for high-grade applications) delivers 60 to 100 watts and is a new standard that delivers the wattage to demanding devices. It is expected that the PoE++ (Type 3 and 4) will be demanded more in the future to cater to smart home automation. 

• For low-power demand devices — PoE (Still in use) may suffice.
• For medium PoE applications — PoE+ is the current go-to standard.
• For high-wattage devices — PoE++ is the best choice, make sure it is compatible with your device and cabling. 

How To Choose PoE Switch?

Whenever you need to buy anything that is technically aligned with your networking needs a brief introduction and little knowledge sometimes proves worthy. So “How To Choose PoE Network Switch” involves some understanding of the PoE voltage needs, wattage, and low, medium, and high power demanding applications. Following is the breakdown of providing you with the best and possible ideal choice for choosing PoE vs PoE+ switch. 

1. Power Requirements

1. Identify PoE wattage according to your device
1. PoE 15 watts for IP phones
2. PoE+ 25 to 30 watts PTZ cameras
3. PoE++ (Type 3 and Type 4) up to 60 to 100 watts LED lighting or Digital signage.
2. Check the max. Power consumption of used devices.
3. Future expansion plan

2. Number of PoE Ports

1. Identify the applications that need power.
2. Go for extra ports for future expansion or the addition of other networking gadgets.

3. Network Speed

1. Check for the data transfer speeds required by your network
2. 10/100/1000 Mbps for basic applications
3. Gigabit or 10 Gbps for high-end applications
4. 2.5 Gbps or 5 Gbps to futureproof and high bandwidth applications.

4. Managed vs Unmanaged Switches

1. Unmanaged Switches — They work on the Plug and Play rule, have basic functionality, are cost-efficient, and are suitable for small-scale applications. 
2. Managed Switches — Get ready to get advanced features like Virtual LANs (VLANs), Quality of Service (QoS), and security options. It is specially designed to withstand large network control and troubleshooting. 

PoE vs PoE+ vs PoE++ Applications

PoE vs PoE+ vs PoE++ switch has some of the applications that are associated with each type of PoE. Here is a glance at the most used applications. 

In a Nutshell

PoE Switch is the smartest technology that is most common in practice along with its types like 1,2,3, and 4 (PoE vs PoE+ vs PoE++). PoE switch consisted of several ports to accommodate several connections and establish a seamless connection. 
Whenever you are buying a bulk ethernet cable you must know which PoE network switch you are going to use or what are the speed specs of the server. Cat5e delivers 1 Gbps over shorter lengths, Cat6 delivers 1 Gbps over longer lengths, and Cat6a delivers 10 Gbps over longer lengths. So choose the smart networking equipment that will simplify your networking needs.