ZyXEL MG108 5-Port 2. 5 Gigabit Ethernet Switch - Layer 2 Unmanaged - Fanless Desktop/Wall Mount
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Product Features
Technical Overview
The MG-108 features five 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports using RJ-45 connectors and twisted pair cabling, compatible with Cat5e or higher for optimal performance. It supports the 2.5GBase-T standard, delivering up to 2.5 Gbps per port while maintaining backward compatibility with traditional Gigabit and Fast Ethernet devices.
This switch implements Layer 2 switching capabilities, supporting key IEEE standards including 802.3u, 802.3ab, 802.3bz for speed negotiation, 802.3x for flow control, and 802.1p for quality of service prioritization. The unmanaged design means all switching functions operate automatically without requiring user intervention or management software.
Relevant factors for this section include Features, Total Number of Network Ports, Network (RJ-45), Port/Expansion Slot Details. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
The MG-108 combines modern 2.5 Gigabit speeds with simplified deployment, offering a cost-effective upgrade path for networks needing higher bandwidth without management overhead. Its compact footprint and flexible mounting options make it adaptable to various installation scenarios.
Silent Fanless Design
Operates without cooling fans, eliminating noise and moving parts that could fail, making it suitable for office environments where quiet operation is preferred.
Layer 2 Switching Intelligence
Provides basic switching functions including traffic prioritization and broadcast control through supported IEEE standards, improving network performance over simple hubs.
Flexible Deployment Options
Supports both desktop placement and wall mounting with included hardware, allowing installation in space-constrained areas or organized cable management setups.
Deployment / Use Cases
The ZYXEL MG-108 serves as an ideal network expansion solution for environments where simplicity and reliability take priority over advanced management features. Its 2.5 Gigabit ports provide sufficient bandwidth for connecting modern workstations, network-attached storage devices, or high-speed peripherals in small office settings.
Common deployment scenarios include connecting multiple computers and printers in a home office, expanding port capacity behind a router in a small business, or creating a dedicated high-speed segment for video editing workstations or backup devices. The switch's unmanaged nature makes it particularly suitable for users without dedicated IT staff who need dependable connectivity without configuration complexity.
Small Office Network Expansion
Adds five 2.5 Gigabit ports to existing networks, enabling connections for computers, printers, and other peripherals while maintaining backward compatibility with existing Gigabit equipment.
Home Office Connectivity Hub
Provides centralized wired connectivity for home office setups where wireless performance may be inconsistent, with silent operation that won't disrupt quiet work environments.
Physical Profile
Measuring 9.45" wide × 4.17" deep × 1.02" high (240 × 106 × 26 mm) and weighing approximately 1.41 lb (640 g), the MG-108 maintains a compact footprint suitable for desktop placement or wall mounting. The switch supports dual voltage input (120-230V AC) via an included power adapter, with environmentally compliant construction meeting RoHS and WEEE directives.
The physical profile is practical for deployment planning because the dimensions and weight are clearly defined: 1.02" (26 mm), 9.45" (240 mm), 4.17" (106 mm), 1.41 lb (640 g). This helps confirm rack, shelf, desk, or cabinet fit before installation.
- Width
- 9.45" (240 mm)
- Depth
- 4.17" (106 mm)
- Height
- 1.02" (26 mm)
- Weight
- 1.41 lb (640 g)
What's in the Box
The package includes all necessary components for immediate deployment and compliance documentation.
Highlights
- 5-port 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet switch with RJ-45 connectors
- Layer 2 switching support with IEEE 802.3bz compliance
- Fanless design for silent operation in office environments
- Unmanaged operation requires no configuration or administration
- Supports desktop placement or wall mounting flexibility
- 12.24W power consumption for energy-efficient operation
- Backward compatible with Gigabit and Fast Ethernet devices
- 5-year limited warranty for long-term reliability
- RoHS and WEEE compliant for environmental responsibility
- Includes power adapter and quick start documentation
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | ZYXEL Communications Corp. |
| Manufacturer Part Number | MG108 |
| Brand Name | ZYXEL |
| Product Model | MG-108 |
| Product Name | MG-108 Ethernet Switch |
| Product Type | Ethernet Switch |
| Technical Information | |
| Features | Fanless |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Total Number of Network Ports | 5 |
| Network (RJ-45) | Yes |
| Port/Expansion Slot Details | 8 x 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Ports |
| Media & Performance | |
| Media Type Supported | Twisted Pair |
| Ethernet Technology | 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet |
| Network Technology | 2.5GBase-T |
| Network & Communication | |
| Layer Supported | 2 |
| Networking Standards | IEEE 802.3u,IEEE 802.3ab,IEEE 802.3bz,IEEE 802.3x,IEEE 802.1p,IEEE 802.3 |
| Management & Protocols | |
| Manageable | No |
| Power Description | |
| PoE (RJ-45) Port | No |
| Input Voltage | 120 V AC,230 V AC |
| Power Source | Power Adapter |
| Power Consumption | 12.24 W |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Form Factor | Wall Mountable,Desktop |
| Height | 1.02" (26 mm) |
| Width | 9.45" (240 mm) |
| Depth | 4.17" (106 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 1.41 lb (640 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | MG-108 Ethernet Switch Power adapter Quick Start Guide Safety Warning and DoC |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Compliance | Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS),Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 5 Year |
User Manual
FAQ
How many devices can I connect to the ZYXEL MG-108 switch?
The MG-108 provides five 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing you to connect up to five wired devices simultaneously. This includes computers, printers, network-attached storage, or other network peripherals. The switch operates as an unmanaged device, automatically handling traffic between connected devices without requiring configuration.
What is the difference between Layer 2 and unmanaged switching?
Layer 2 refers to the data link layer in networking, where the switch can perform basic switching functions like MAC address learning and traffic prioritization using supported IEEE standards. Unmanaged means the switch operates automatically without user-configurable settings or management interfaces. The MG-108 combines Layer 2 capabilities with unmanaged operation, providing improved performance over basic hubs while maintaining plug-and-play simplicity.
Does this switch support Power over Ethernet (PoE)?
No, the ZYXEL MG-108 does not provide Power over Ethernet capabilities. All five ports are standard data-only Ethernet ports that require connected devices to have their own power sources. The switch itself is powered by an included AC adapter with 12.24W typical power consumption.
What type of cabling do I need for 2.5 Gigabit speeds?
The MG-108 supports twisted pair cabling and is compatible with Cat5e, Cat6, or higher Ethernet cables for optimal 2.5 Gigabit performance. While Cat5e can support 2.5GBase-T at shorter distances, Cat6 or Cat6a cables are recommended for maximum performance and longer runs. The switch maintains backward compatibility and will automatically negotiate speeds with older Gigabit or Fast Ethernet devices.
Can this switch be mounted on a wall or rack?
Yes, the MG-108 supports both desktop placement and wall mounting. The compact dimensions (9.45" × 4.17" × 1.02") and included mounting hardware allow flexible installation in space-constrained areas. While not specifically designed for rack mounting, the switch can be mounted vertically on walls or placed horizontally on desktops to suit your deployment needs.
What warranty coverage does ZYXEL provide for this switch?
ZYXEL offers a 5-year limited warranty for the MG-108 Ethernet Switch, providing coverage for defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. This extended warranty period supports long-term deployment in business environments where reliability is essential. The switch also complies with environmental standards including RoHS and WEEE directives.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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