Ubiquiti EdgeSwitch 8-Port 150W (ES-8-150W) – The Compact Powerhouse

Overview: Enterprise Features in a Compact, Powerful Package

The Ubiquiti EdgeSwitch 8-Port 150W (ES-8-150W) is a fully managed, Layer 2 Gigabit switch that delivers enterprise-grade functionality and robust Power over Ethernet in a remarkably compact form factor. As part of Ubiquiti’s proven EdgeMAX line, it provides network professionals with deep configurability and a substantial 150W PoE budget without requiring a centralized controller. This switch is the perfect solution for small offices, retail spaces, and remote deployments where a powerful, standalone switching solution is needed to power a suite of IP cameras, access points, and phones.

Full Technical Specifications: EdgeSwitch 8-Port 150W

Key Features and Benefits

1. Robust PoE+ in a Compact Design

Despite its small size, the ES-8-150W packs a powerful 150W PoE budget across all eight RJ45 ports.

• High Power Density: Can deliver up to 30W (802.3at) on every port, making it capable of powering a full stack of power-hungry devices.

• Auto-Sensing 802.3af/at: Each port automatically detects and delivers the correct power level, protecting connected devices.

• Versatile Power Applications: Ideal for powering a combination of:

  • IP Cameras: Multiple high-performance PTZ cameras.

  • Wireless Access Points: Several Wi-Fi 5/Wi-Fi 6 access points.

  • VoIP Phones: An entire small office phone system.

  • Access Control Devices: Door controllers and intercoms.

2. Advanced, Standalone Management

This switch provides the same deep management options as its larger siblings in the EdgeSwitch family.

• Command Line Interface (CLI): Features a Cisco-like syntax, offering powerful and granular control for network engineers. Perfect for scripting and complex configurations.

• Intuitive Web GUI: A user-friendly graphical interface makes advanced features like VLANs and QoS accessible without deep CLI knowledge.

• UNMS Integration: Can be optionally adopted into Ubiquiti’s Network Management System for limited centralized monitoring alongside other EdgeMAX devices.

3. Comprehensive Layer 2 Feature Set

This is a true managed switch, not a simple “smart” switch, offering capabilities found in much larger enterprise equipment.

• Advanced VLAN Support: Create 802.1Q VLANs for network segmentation, including Voice VLAN for prioritizing VoIP traffic.

• Link Aggregation (LAG): Combine multiple ports to create a high-bandwidth, redundant trunk to a server or another switch.

• Quality of Service (QoS): Prioritize critical traffic (like voice or video) to ensure smooth performance across the network.

• Access Control Lists (ACLs): Implement security policies to filter traffic based on IP addresses, protocols, and ports.

• Spanning Tree Protocol (STP): Prevent network loops and ensure path redundancy.

4. Flexible Connectivity with SFP Uplinks

The two 1G SFP ports provide crucial flexibility for network connectivity.

• Fiber Uplinks: Connect to a core switch or router over long distances using fiber SFP modules, providing electrical isolation and noise immunity.

• Copper Uplinks: Use 1000BASE-T SFP modules for additional copper RJ45 uplinks if needed.

5. Versatile and Discreet Placement

• Desktop Design: Fits neatly on a shelf or in a tight space.

• Wall-Mountable: Includes keyhole slots for easy and discreet wall mounting, perfect for security closets or behind monitors.

• Fanless Operation: Runs completely silently, making it suitable for any environment, including quiet offices and retail spaces.

Who Is The EdgeSwitch 8 150W For?

This switch is designed for professionals who need powerful, standalone management in a compact package.

Ideal Use Cases:

• Small to Medium Businesses (SMBs): As the core network switch for a small office, powering phones, APs, and cameras.

• System Integrators & MSPs: A reliable, configurable switch to deploy at client sites for specific projects or as a core network device.

• Dedicated Surveillance Systems: The perfect switch for a small to medium-sized IP camera installation at a remote site or retail store.

• Remote Offices & Work-from-Home Setups: For professionals who need advanced features and high PoE power in a home office or satellite office.

• Classrooms & Kiosks: To provide managed connectivity and power in a compact, silent device.

EdgeSwitch vs. UniFi: Choosing Your Platform

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can this switch be managed by the UniFi Controller?
A: No. The EdgeSwitch series is part of the standalone EdgeMAX platform and is managed via its own CLI, Web GUI, or UNMS. It cannot be adopted into a UniFi Controller.

Q: What is the real-world power consumption?
A: Without any PoE load, the switch itself consumes around 10-15W. The total power draw will be the switch consumption plus the combined power of all your connected PoE devices, up to the 150W budget.

Q: Does it support PoE++ (802.3bt)?
A: No. The ES-8-150W only supports the 802.3af (PoE) and 802.3at (PoE+) standards, with a maximum of 30W per port. It cannot power high-wattage devices like UniFi Access Hubs that require 802.3bt.

Q: Are the SFP ports compatible with SFP+ modules?
A: No. The two SFP ports are standard 1 Gigabit SFP ports. They are not 10 Gigabit SFP+ ports.

Q: Is the CLI similar to Cisco’s?
A: Yes. The CLI uses a very similar syntax and command structure to Cisco’s IOS, making it familiar and easy to learn for network engineers with Cisco experience.

Conclusion

The Ubiquiti EdgeSwitch 8-Port 150W (ES-8-150W) is a testament to the power of “more in less.” It successfully packs a high-power PoE budget, comprehensive Layer 2 management features, and flexible connectivity into a silent, compact unit that can be placed virtually anywhere. For the IT professional, system integrator, or savvy business owner who values hands-on control and robust performance over centralized management, this switch remains an incredibly capable and cost-effective solution. It is the undisputed compact powerhouse for standalone network deployments.