We’ve been rather behind in bringing out a new compilation of budget-friendly network switches. We currently have a backlog of over a dozen units awaiting reviews and video round-up features, but we’ve chosen to kick things off with one with an interesting moniker. This 8-port 2.5GbE and 1-port SFP+ 10GbE switch is comically named “ienRon”. Imagine taking “Enron”, adding an “i” in the style of Apple’s iPhone to create “iEnron”. Regardless of its peculiar name, this little switch packs a distinct feature hence it grabbed our attention for the first review.
For those who wish to purchase the switch directly, find the Amazon affiliate link here. This switch was also featured in one of our punchy and concise video shorts, which can be found here:
ienRon HG0801XG 8-port 2.5GbE 1-port 10GbE Fanless Switch Hardware Overview
On the front of the switch, there are eight 2.5GbE ports, followed by an unlabeled SFP+ port (it is marked as SFP instead.) Nonetheless, this means we get a 10GbE uplink for the modest-sized switch, potentially very useful.
The primary distinguishing feature of this switch from many of the other 9-port switches we’ve reviewed is the “VLAN” switch. It can be turned OFF or ON. This switch, present in a few other units, regulates port isolation. When activated, the ports (for instance, 1 and 8) cannot directly interact, but they can communicate via the SFP+ uplink. If you’re uncertain about needing this feature, we recommend leaving it deactivated.
A vent is located on one side.
On the contrasting side, there’s not only a vent but also a “Tear invalid” sticker.
Nothing exists on the rear. A tiny grounding point screw is located here on numerous switches, but not on this one. This switch is primarily focused on cost-cutting. It was so frugal that it didn’t include rubber feet to prevent the unit from marking a desk.
Taking off the top is as easy as removing four screws.
This is another Realtek RTL8373-CG plus RTL8224-CG design, with a very simplified internal design. The PCB is even smaller than other units we have seen like the YuanLey YS25-0801.
Next, let us get working with the switch.
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