In the modern tech edge, Network switches are backbone of every industry. Whether, you are running a small factory or a big industrial plant, Network switches play vital roles in every industry.
Also, whenever you are setting up a network at your workplace, it is really important to choose the right switch. Otherwise, you may have to face multiple challenges during the operational hours, Which can also impact your productivity negatively.
Although, every network switch looks very similar, they have different roles. Some of them are made for indoor activities meanwhile others are made for outdoor activities.
Getting confused? Which one is ideal for your network?
Don’t worry.
In this article, we will understand the difference between major types of switches like- Industrial-grade switches and Commercial switches.
After reading this article, you will be qualified enough to choose the right switch for your network.
What is Network switch?
Let’s start with the basic question, “What is Network switch?”.
I know it may sound a silly question. But this is just giving an idea to those, who are not tech savvy at all.
A network switch is a device that connects devices within a network. It allows you to do seamless communication between two or more devices. It also allows you to manage the traffic, so you don’t have to deal with network congestions.
Not only this, network switches also have many crucial features which protect your network and help you in managing the data and other crucial network.
Today, network switches are broadly categorized into two types:
- Commercial Switches– these are the normal switches, commonly being used in the offices, shopping malls and indoors premises.
- Industrial Switches– These switches are designed for harsh environments and outdoors premises. Generally, being used in the Industrial-plants, Oil & Gas refineries etc.
Still getting confused?
Don’t worry, let me explain it to you.
Major Difference between Industrial & commercial Switch?
Environment Tolerance-
Whenever we talk about the major difference between Industrial-Grade and enterprise switches, environmental tolerance takes the first place.
Commercial (enterprise) switches are made for the normal environments. They can operate efficiently from -30 to +75C temperature. Commercial switches do not have better protection against dust, water or vibration, Due to which, you can use them in the indoor premises only.
Meanwhile, if we talk about Industrial-grade switches, they are solely made for harsh environments. These switches work efficiently from -40 to +85C temperature. These switches are built with the solid metal sheets.
Not only this, Industrial-grade switches are designed to resist vibrations, shocks, humidity, dust, and even corrosive gases.
So, they are the perfect choice for outdoor premises.
Build Quality and Components –
Commercial (Enterprise) Switches are built with the lightweight plastic or aluminium casing. It has fanbase cooling, which is why dust build-up inside the switches is a common problem, Which may lead to device failure.
This is why it should not be installed in a place where there is dust or other particles flying around in the air.
This is a suitable device only for places where there is a clean environment and it is not too hot or cold. For example- offices, Shopping complexes, home, residential buildings etc.
Meanwhile, Industrial-grade switches are built with hardened metal enclosures. It comes with the Conformal Coating. This coating protects PCB from moisture and corrosive particles, which makes it a durable device. Also, these switches come up with the fan less heat dissipation.
This makes it perfect device for outdoor premises & industrial plants where working environment is really harsh.
Mounting and Installation Flexibility
Commercial switches are generally rack-mounted or desk-mounted and not suited for enclosed or vibrating environments.
Meanwhile, Industrial switches are built with DIN rail or rack-mounting options, allowing quick integration into industrial cabinets or panels.
Network Redundancy and Protocol Support
Enterprise switches support basic spanning tree protocol. It is useful for loop prevention. Meanwhile, these switches don’t have network redundancy or other features.
Industrial-grade switches offer advanced redundancy protocols like Rapid Ring Recovery, ERPS (Ethernet Ring Protection Switching), and MSTP (Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol) with recovery times as low as 20ms.
Also, these switches support VLAN, QoS, IGMP Snooping and SNMP for advanced control.
Lifespan and Total Cost of Ownership-
Since commercial grade switches are lighter than industrial-grade switches in terms of both features and build quality, they are also cheaper, and can be purchased in the range of $100 to $1000.
The price depends on the model of the switch and its ports and other features. Sometimes the price can be a little higher. Also, the lifespan of these switches can range from 2 to 5 years.
Industrial-grade switches are a little more costly than normal switches, they have many advanced features that not only keep your network active but also secure through advanced protocols. Also, these switches have a longer lifespan.
Which one should you buy?
Let’s come to the final point, which one should you buy for your office.
If you’re working in a stable, indoor environment—commercial switches are cost-effective and sufficient.
For rugged, remote, or high-stake environments, industrial switches are not optional—they’re essential. you should not compromise by buying commercial switches. Otherwise, you may have to face downtime every alternate day.
