Need a gigabit switch? Make sure you take a look at the Netgear GS608 8-Port Gigabit Desktop Switch. We tested one of these at our labs on a mixed network and were very impressed and unlike most network switches, it has a sleek design, so it blends in with any surrounding easily.

In our tests we set up the switch with four gigabit PC's, two 100 full, and a DNS-321 NAS box running gigabit speed. The performance was superb when transferring files. We recorded a 23.4GB file copy transfer from the NAS box to one of the PC's running on the gigabit side at a little over one hour.The gigabit speed is noticeable, giving you up to ten time faster speeds when transferring large files from one computer or device to another. The GS608 features 8 Ethernet Gigabit auto-sensing ports so it reduces the amount of work you need to do. The switch requires no software installation, so it is easy to set up. You basically plug in the UTP cables and play.

It is also easy to see which devices are running at gigabit speeds by the lights in the front. If the numbers are solid green you know you are running gigabit if it is orange you are running at 100MB.

We loved the Netgear GS608's simplicity and more than anything its price. You can find the switch for about $49.00 on Amazon - more than fair price for the work it does.

IN THE BOX
GS608 8-port Ethernet switch
Vertical stand
Power adapter
Installation guide
2 year warranty/support information card

THE GOOD
- Ease of set up
- Fast
- Aesthetically pleasing

THE BAD
- Can't think of any

WHERE TO BUY
Amazon