Four Frequently Asked Questions about Westermo Unmanaged Switches

A network can comprise various end devices, including HMIs, PLCs, Switches, and Routers. Many networking devices offer management services, enabling changes to the IP address and advanced device settings.

Managed switches and routers can be configured with firewalls, MAC filtering, or disabling unused ports, but these features often come with additional costs. In some scenarios, unmanaged switches present a cost-effective alternative. They can serve as expansion switches in mixed media networks or help extend a network that has reached its capacity.

Here are answers to four frequently asked questions about unmanaged switches:

Question 1: Can an Unmanaged Switch Replace a Managed Switch in a Network?

Replacing a managed switch with an unmanaged one depends on the specific needs of the application. For example, to establish a redundant ring network using FRNT, unmanaged switches do not provide the necessary management capabilities. Devices like Lynx, Redfox, or Viper would be required instead.

However, the SandCat can provide additional ports for end devices in networks that are already at maximum capacity, thereby expanding network capacity rather than replacing existing equipment. The SandCat is designed to enhance network capacity without replacing current infrastructure.

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Question 2: Is a SandCat Secure?

The security of devices depends on their configuration. Initially, most switches (managed or unmanaged) come with minimal security features. If security settings are overlooked or improperly configured, network security can be compromised.

The absence of features in unmanaged switches is sometimes considered a security risk. While unmanaged switches do not offer management features like MAC filtering or firewalls, these functions need to be properly set up elsewhere in the network. The SandCat, when used for expanding network capacity, can be secure through existing network security measures.

In essence, the SandCat can be secure if the network is configured with robust cybersecurity services.

Question 3: Does a SandCat Enable Network Expandability?

Absolutely, unmanaged switches can support network expansion. As networks grow to incorporate more sensors, HMIs, PLCs, and other end devices, the initial managed switch might not accommodate the expansion. The SandCat offers an economical solution for this need.

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Question 4: Can you Prevent Unauthorized Access by Plugging into a SandCat?

This is a critical concern with unmanaged switches. Designing your network securely can help prevent unauthorized access. Monitoring, alarms, and threat detection should be in place to identify, alert, and address such incidents.

It's important to note that an unconfigured managed switch operates similarly to an unmanaged switch. Security configurations must be applied across multiple system and network layers to safeguard all assets.

The SandCat series comprises compact, user-friendly, unmanaged industrial Ethernet switches. This five-port fast Ethernet switch series offers a cost-effective, plug-and-play solution for various industrial applications, complementing Westermo’s range of managed switches.

The SandCat series is ideal for extending the port count of managed switches, enabling the connection of more end devices across different topologies.