Now you can have a powerful, high-speed network on a small scale. NETGEAR's GS104 Gigabit Ethernet Switch lets you build a system that provides a full, dedicated 1000, 100, or 10 Mbps connection so you can move even very large files across your network instantly. The GS104 also lets you painlessly integrate 10, 100, and 1000 Mbps devices. This potent switch is packed with ease-of-use features to simplify your workday experience. Its compact design fits neatly into small workspaces and, since it's self-cooling without a fan, it runs silently and unobtrusively.Move huge files fast! GS104 features a high-speed, auto-switching 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet connection. And because Gigabit Ethernet is a full duplex standard, you can get up to 2000 Mbps on each port. GS104 integrates 10, 100, and 1000 Mbps devices on the same network. Every port automatically senses the right speed and full/half duplex mode, and Auto Uplink technology automatically adjusts for straight-through or crossover cables. LEDs embedded in RJ-45 jacks make for easy monitoring. Space-saving dimensions are ideal for desktop or wall mounting in home and small office environments. And it runs quietly, self-cooling without an internal fan.
1 Surprisingly noisy, but fast
The Netgear GS104 switch is well-built, like most netgear equipment, and it's nice to have a switch that's in a strong, solid metal case. The switch is also certainly peppy enough, given PCs with gigabit ethernet cards. However, I've got two complaints about it.
1. It gets pretty warm, and
2. It makes an annoying squeal or buzzing noise (somewhat like two or more of the ports are unconnected or connected to a device that's powered off. Once the third connection is enabled, it's silent. There's no fan, so when at least three connections are on, there's no noise at all.
For a switch intended for desktop use, where not all ports are always connected to powered-up equipment, the squealing/buzzing noise is very unpleasant. If you're sure to have at least three of the four ports connected and powered on during the time you'll be within 10 feet of the switch, it's a great unit. Otherwise, you might want to look for something quieter.
