What is the disadvantage of PoE switch?

While providing convenient data transmission and power supply, PoE (Power over Ethernet) switches also have some disadvantages. The following are the main disadvantages of PoE switches:

1. Power limitation

Insufficient output power: The power output provided by PoE switches may not meet the needs of all devices. For example, the maximum output power defined by the IEEE 802.3af standard (i.e. PoE) is 15.4W, which may not be enough for some high-power devices (such as high-power front-end devices such as ball cameras). Although the IEEE 802.3at standard (i.e. PoE+) provides up to 30W of power, it may still not meet the needs of higher-power devices.

Power supply distance limitation: The stable power supply distance of PoE technology is generally within 100 meters, and may even be shorter under special circumstances. This limits the application of PoE switches in long-distance power supply scenarios.

2. Concentration risk

Single point failure risk: Since PoE switches power multiple devices at the same time, once the power supply module of the switch fails, it may cause all connected devices to stop working, thereby increasing the risk of single point failure.

3. Cost and maintenance

Higher equipment cost: PoE switches are usually more expensive than ordinary switches. This may increase the initial investment cost of network construction.

Maintenance cost and difficulty: Although PoE technology is relatively mature, the quality of cables or PoE switches on the market varies, which may lead to instability in the power supply process and increased maintenance workload in the later stage. In addition, since PoE switches undertake the dual tasks of data transmission and power supply at the same time, more professional maintenance skills may be required to solve the problem once a failure occurs.

4. Compatibility and standardization issues

Compatibility issues: Although IEEE has formulated relevant standards for PoE, there may be differences in the compliance of devices from different manufacturers, leading to compatibility issues. Non-standard PoE switches may use their own proprietary power supply solutions, which further increases the compatibility issues between devices.

Standardization process: Although PoE technology has been widely used, the standardization process is still in progress. The emergence of new standards and protocols may have an impact on existing equipment, requiring users to upgrade or replace them.

In summary, while PoE switches provide convenience, they also have disadvantages such as power limitations, centralized risks, costs and maintenance, and compatibility and standardization issues. When choosing to use a PoE switch, you need to make comprehensive considerations based on specific needs and scenarios.