TP-Link 6-Port 10/100Mbps Desktop Switch with 4-Port PoE+ (LS106LP)

The TP-Link 6-Port 10/100Mbps Desktop Switch with 4-Port PoE+ (LS106LP) is a highly practical and straightforward unmanaged switch, designed for small-scale network expansions where Power over Ethernet (PoE) is required for devices that operate at Fast Ethernet speeds (10/100Mbps). It’s an ideal choice for home users, small offices, or specific deployments like powering a few IP cameras, emphasizing ease of use and silent operation.

Overview of the TP-Link LS106LP

The LS106LP features a total of 6 RJ45 ports: 4 ports operate at 10/100Mbps and are equipped with PoE+ capability, while the remaining 2 ports are also 10/100Mbps and serve as regular data ports. This configuration is perfect for connecting and powering common PoE devices such as IP cameras, basic VoIP phones, or older wireless access points that don’t necessitate Gigabit speeds. As an unmanaged switch, it prioritizes “plug-and-play” functionality, meaning it works immediately upon connection without any user configuration.

Key Features and Capabilities

• 4 x 10/100Mbps RJ45 Ports with PoE+ (802.3at/af):
  • These 4 ports provide Fast Ethernet speeds, which are more than sufficient for the majority of PoE-powered devices like IP cameras (even high-resolution ones, as video streams are compressed), VoIP phones, or basic wireless access points.
  • Each of these 4 ports supports PoE+ (802.3at/af), delivering up to 30W of power per port. This allows for convenient power delivery to compliant PoE devices over the same Ethernet cable that carries data, simplifying installation and reducing cabling complexity.
  • 60W Total PoE Power Budget: The switch offers a solid 60W total PoE power budget. This is ample power to simultaneously support multiple typical PoE+ devices, such as a few IP cameras or a small Wi-Fi access point deployment.
• 2 x 10/100Mbps RJ45 Ports (Non-PoE):
  • These two ports function as standard Fast Ethernet data ports. They are typically used for connecting the switch to your main network device like a router, a Network Video Recorder (NVR) for IP cameras, or a desktop computer.
• Plug and Play:
  • As an unmanaged switch, the LS106LP is incredibly simple to set up. There’s no software to install, no drivers needed, and no complex configurations. You simply connect your Ethernet cables to your devices and plug in the power, and the switch is ready to operate.
• Extend Mode (Up to 250m PoE Transmission):
  • This is a highly valuable feature, particularly beneficial for surveillance applications. When activated with a simple flip of a physical switch, “Extend Mode” allows both data and PoE power to be transmitted over Ethernet cables for distances up to 250 meters (820 feet). This capability effectively doubles the standard 100-meter Ethernet distance limit, making it ideal for deploying IP cameras or other PoE devices further away from the main switch without needing intermediate power outlets or expensive repeaters.
• Isolation Mode:
  • Another practical feature, “Isolation Mode” can be enabled via a physical switch. In this mode, the PoE ports (typically ports 1-4) are isolated from each other, meaning devices connected to these specific ports cannot communicate directly with one another. However, they can still communicate with the non-PoE uplink ports (ports 5-6). This enhances security by preventing lateral attacks between devices and improves network efficiency by preventing broadcast storms, which is particularly useful in multi-camera surveillance setups to ensure camera streams don’t interfere with each other.
• PoE Auto Recovery:
  • This intelligent feature ensures continuous operation and minimizes downtime for PoE-powered devices (PDs). If a PoE device becomes unresponsive or unexpectedly loses its connection, the switch can automatically detect this condition and power cycle the specific port, effectively rebooting the problematic device without requiring manual intervention.
• Fanless Design:
  • The LS106LP features a fanless design, which guarantees completely silent operation. This makes it an excellent choice for deployment in any noise-sensitive environment, such as living rooms, bedrooms, small offices, or retail spaces where fan noise would be disruptive.
• Durable Metal Casing:
  • Housed in a sturdy, high-quality metal casing, the switch is built for long-term reliability and durability. Its compact desktop form factor also often supports wall-mounting for flexible placement options.
• Green Ethernet Technology:
  • The switch incorporates energy-efficient technology to help reduce power consumption. It can automatically adjust power usage based on factors like cable length and link status (e.g., powering down unused ports), contributing to lower operating costs and environmental friendliness.

Ideal Use Cases

The TP-Link LS106LP is an excellent choice for:

• Small IP Surveillance Systems: Powering and connecting up to 4 IP cameras, especially benefiting from the 250m Extend Mode for longer cable runs and Isolation Mode for enhanced security.
• Home Networks: Adding PoE capability for a few Wi-Fi access points, smart home devices, or a small home security camera setup.
• Small Office/Home Office (SOHO): Providing PoE for VoIP phones, a basic access point, or other low-bandwidth PoE devices.
• Retail Kiosks/Small Boutiques: Powering POS systems, security cameras, or digital signage where only a few PoE devices are needed.
• Extending Network Reach: Using Extend Mode to deploy devices further away from the main network without complex setups or additional power infrastructure.