The NETGEAR GS305 is a compact, no-fuss 5-port Gigabit Ethernet switch designed for home offices, small businesses, or anyone who wants to expand their wired network effortlessly. Its plug-and-play simplicity and solid performance make it one of the most popular unmanaged switches on the market.
Key Features at a Glance
- 5 Gigabit Ethernet Ports (RJ45)
- Unmanaged: Plug-and-Play, No Configuration Needed
- Fanless, Silent Operation
- Durable Metal Chassis
- Supports Auto-MDI/MDIX and Energy Efficient Ethernet (IEEE 802.3az)
What Is an Unmanaged Switch?
An unmanaged switch is a basic Ethernet device that lets connected devices communicate on a local area network (LAN). No software, no interface—just plug in your devices and go. It’s perfect for users who need fast, reliable connections without any complexity.
Performance & Throughput
Each of the five ports supports 10/100/1000 Mbps (1 Gbps), giving users Gigabit speeds for bandwidth-heavy activities like 4K streaming, large file transfers, gaming, and video conferencing. It features non-blocking switching architecture, ensuring maximum throughput without bottlenecks.
Ports and Connectivity
- 5x RJ45 Gigabit Ports with auto-negotiation
- No uplink port, but any port can be used for uplink
- Auto-MDI/MDIX eliminates the need for crossover cables
Power & Cabling
- Power Input: 12V DC, 0.5A
- Connector: Barrel-style DC plug
- Power Cable Length: Approx. 5 ft
- Energy Efficient Ethernet: Reduces power usage during low traffic periods
Design and Build Quality
- Color: Matte dark gray
- Material: Rugged all-metal housing
- Cooling: Fanless for silent operation
- Mounting: Desktop only (non-rackmountable)
- Dimensions: 3.9 x 3.9 x 1.1 inches (99 x 99 x 27 mm)
Ideal Use Cases
- Home Networks and Smart TVs
- Gaming Consoles or Media Streamers
- Small Offices and Startup Spaces
- NAS and Printer Connections in Shared Workspaces
What We Like
- Very quiet and energy-efficient
- Incredibly easy setup
- Strong metal casing
- Affordable yet high-performance
What We Don’t Like
- No PoE (Power over Ethernet) support
- No VLAN or QoS for traffic prioritization
Final Thoughts
The NETGEAR GS305 is ideal for users who want hassle-free, high-speed wired connections in a compact and silent package. It’s one of the best network switches for budget-conscious buyers in 2025 who want Gigabit performance without diving into configuration menus.
