Netgear ProSafe GS728TP Network Switch Features Explained
- JP
- Dec 18, 2025
- 5 min read
When you’re setting up a smart home or a small office network, having the right network switch can make all the difference. The Netgear ProSafe GS728TP is one of those devices that often pops up in conversations about reliable, feature-packed switches. But what exactly makes it stand out? Let’s dive into the key features of this switch and explain why it might be the perfect fit for your setup.
Understanding Network Switch Features
Before we get into the specifics of the Netgear ProSafe GS728TP, it’s useful to understand what features you should look for in a network switch. A network switch is a device that connects multiple devices on a local network, allowing them to communicate efficiently. Here are some important features to consider:
Port Count and Speed: The number of ports and their speed (usually 1Gbps or 10Gbps) determine how many devices you can connect and how fast data can travel.
Power over Ethernet (PoE): This feature allows the switch to power devices like IP cameras or access points directly through the Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for separate power supplies.
Managed vs Unmanaged: Managed switches offer more control over your network, including traffic prioritisation and security settings, while unmanaged switches are simpler and plug-and-play.
VLAN Support: Virtual LANs help segment your network for better security and performance.
Quality of Service (QoS): This prioritises important traffic, such as video calls or streaming, to avoid interruptions.
Energy Efficiency: Some switches reduce power consumption when ports are idle, saving energy and money.
Knowing these features helps you understand what the Netgear ProSafe GS728TP brings to the table.
What does a Netgear ProSAFE switch do?
The Netgear ProSAFE series is designed to provide reliable, high-performance networking solutions for small to medium-sized businesses and advanced home networks. The GS728TP model is a smart managed switch, which means it offers a balance between ease of use and advanced features.
Here’s what it does for you:
Connects multiple devices: With 28 ports, you can hook up computers, smart home hubs, security cameras, and more.
Provides Power over Ethernet (PoE): Up to 24 of those ports support PoE, so you can power devices like IP cameras or wireless access points without extra cables.
Manages your network traffic: It lets you prioritise certain types of data, ensuring smooth video streaming or VoIP calls.
Supports VLANs: You can separate your smart home devices from your work devices for better security.
Offers remote management: You can configure and monitor the switch from a web interface or via SNMP, making it easier to keep an eye on your network.
This switch is a solid choice if you want a bit more control and reliability than a basic plug-and-play switch.
Key Features of the Netgear ProSafe GS728TP Explained
Let’s break down the main features of the Netgear ProSafe GS728TP so you know exactly what you’re getting.
1. 28 Gigabit Ethernet Ports
The GS728TP comes with 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports that support PoE and 4 additional Gigabit ports without PoE. This means you can connect a large number of devices at high speeds. Whether it’s smart home hubs, security cameras, or your work laptop, everything gets a fast and stable connection.
2. Power over Ethernet (PoE) Support
One of the standout features is the PoE capability on 24 ports. This is a huge convenience because it means you don’t need separate power adapters for devices like:
IP security cameras
Wireless access points
VoIP phones
The switch can deliver up to 190 watts of power across these ports, which is enough for most smart home and small office setups.
3. Smart Managed Features
Unlike basic unmanaged switches, the GS728TP offers smart management features that give you more control without being overly complex. You can:
Set up VLANs to segment your network
Prioritise traffic with Quality of Service (QoS)
Monitor network performance and troubleshoot issues
Configure link aggregation to combine ports for higher bandwidth
These features help you optimise your network for both performance and security.
4. Energy Efficient Ethernet
The switch supports Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE), which reduces power consumption when ports are idle. This is a small but useful feature that helps lower your electricity bill and reduces your environmental impact.
5. Robust Build and Warranty
Netgear is known for making durable networking gear, and the GS728TP is no exception. It comes with a metal case designed for rack mounting, making it suitable for both home and office environments. Plus, it includes a limited lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind.
How to Make the Most of Your Netgear ProSafe GS728TP
Now that you know the features, here are some practical tips on how to get the best out of this switch.
Plan Your Network Layout
Think about how many devices you want to connect now and in the future. The 28 ports give you plenty of room to grow. Use the PoE ports for devices that need power and data, like cameras and access points, to keep your setup neat.
Use VLANs for Security and Organisation
If you have smart home devices, work computers, and guests connecting to your network, VLANs can keep these groups separate. This reduces the risk of security breaches and keeps your network running smoothly.
Prioritise Important Traffic
Set up QoS rules to prioritise traffic like video calls or streaming. This way, your Zoom meetings won’t drop out just because someone else is downloading a large file.
Monitor Your Network
Use the switch’s management interface to keep an eye on traffic and spot any issues early. This can save you time and frustration later.
Combine Ports for More Speed
If you have devices that support link aggregation, you can combine two or more ports to increase bandwidth. This is handy for servers or network storage devices.
Where to Find the Netgear ProSafe GS728TP
If you’re interested in upgrading your network with the netgear prosafe gs728tp, it’s worth checking out our site.
Why This Switch Is a Great Choice for Your Smart Home or Commercial Network
The Netgear ProSafe GS728TP strikes a great balance between power, flexibility, and ease of use. It’s not just for tech experts - even if you’re new to networking, the smart management features make it approachable. Plus, the PoE support means fewer cables and less clutter.
Whether you’re setting up a smart home security system, streaming media, or working in a large office, this switch can handle it all. It’s a solid investment that will keep your network running smoothly for years.
If you want to explore more about smart home devices and networking, don’t forget to check out the latest offers at Carefree Smart Homes. We specialise in reliable, genuinely useful products without complexity.
With the right network switch, your smart home or office can run faster, safer, and more efficiently. The Netgear ProSafe GS728TP is a fantastic option to consider if you want a device that’s both powerful and user-friendly.
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