NETGEAR 16-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch GS116 - Reliable

In this review the NETGEAR GS116 is evaluated as a straightforward, no-fuss network switch for small offices and home networks. The bottom line: it is for users who need to expand wired Gigabit connectivity quickly with no setup hassle; the single biggest reason to buy is the combination of 16 full Gigabit Ethernet ports and a truly plug-and-play experience that requires no software or configuration. The unit's quiet operation and energy efficient design make it easy to add dense wired connectivity without adding noise or high power draw.

Key Features

• 16 Gigabit Ethernet ports: Provides ample wired ports to connect multiple desktops, NAS devices, access points and smart home hubs at full Gigabit speeds.
• Plug-and-play simplicity: Requires no configuration or software so it can be installed by non-technical users in minutes.
• Desktop or wall mount: Flexible placement options allow installation on a desk or mounted to a wall to save space.
• Limited Lifetime Protection: Includes a hardware warranty and next business day replacement to minimize downtime if hardware fails.
• Energy efficient operation: Compliant with IEEE 802.3az so the switch lowers power draw when ports are idle, helping reduce ongoing energy costs.
• Quiet operation: Fanless design keeps noise to a minimum, suitable for home offices and quiet workspaces.

Who It's For

The GS116 is aimed at home users, small office environments and anyone who needs to add many wired Gigabit connections without managing VLANs, PoE or advanced features. It is a sensible choice for connecting printers, desktops, network storage, and Wi-Fi access points where reliability and simplicity matter.

It is not for users who require managed switch features such as VLAN segmentation, QoS configuration or Power over Ethernet. Network administrators who need fine-grained control or advanced monitoring should look at managed models instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Sixteen full Gigabit ports provide lots of wired capacity without additional hardware.
• Truly plug-and-play setup eliminates configuration time for basic network expansion.
• Limited Lifetime Hardware Warranty and next business day replacement offer solid protection for business use.
• Energy efficient and fanless design keeps power use and noise low in small environments.

Cons

• Lacks managed features and PoE, so it is unsuitable where VLANs or powered devices are required.
• Designed for use in U.S. and CA only, limiting suitability for international deployments.

Specifications

Product	16-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS116)
Ports	16 Gigabit Ethernet ports
Setup	Plug-and-play, no software or configuration required
Mounting	Desktop or wall mount
Warranty	Limited Lifetime Hardware Warranty with next business day replacement
Energy	IEEE 802.3az energy efficient design
Region	Made for use in U.S. & CA only

Our Verdict

The NETGEAR GS116 is a practical, value-oriented switch for users who need to expand wired Gigabit ports quickly and reliably. Because it is unmanaged and plug-and-play, it is best for homes and small offices that prioritize simplicity over advanced features; the lifetime protection and quiet, energy efficient design make it a smart choice for everyday network expansion without ongoing maintenance headaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this switch need any setup?
Answer. No setup or software is required; it is plug-and-play and works once connected to power and devices.

Can it mount on a wall?
Answer. Yes, the GS116 supports desktop placement or wall mounting for flexible installation.

Is Power over Ethernet supported?
Answer. No, this is an unmanaged non-PoE switch focused on providing Gigabit ports without PoE capability.