The Ubiquiti Networks EdgeRouter ERPoe-5 isn't widely available anymore, but if you can find one then it's still a decent option, even if it's no longer one of the best Ethernet switches out there. But if you do manage to find one, you'll find an Ethernet switch with similar capabilities to most modern models, with Gigabit transfer speeds and some management options that make it more difficult to use, but more customizable as a result.
If you're looking for alternatives that are still readily available, try the D-Link DGS-1008G or the TP Link TL-SG1005D, both of which can currently be found on Amazon and at other retailers.
Ubiquiti Networks EdgeRouter ERPoe-5 review: Features
The Ubiquiti Networks EdgeRouter ERPoe-5 features a five-port design and the ability to support 24V or 48V passive PoE. It's part of the EdgeMAX platform of products from the Ubiquiti Networks brand and comes with business-level features in a compact design that also works for home users.
While this is not a plug-and-play design like most of the other models we reviewed, the Ubiquiti Networks EdgeRouter ERPoe-5 switch does come with a number of customizable features. Through the device’s online interface, known as EdgeOS, you can manage performance standards and customize settings. Each Gigabit port operates as its own separate interface and can be customized accordingly.
You can customize a number of security features through this portal, which is especially useful if you are an enterprise user worried about the safety of your wired network. The dashboard displays statistics and gives you a virtual view of each port, including how it is operating. The device also comes with wall-mounting hardware; however, it is larger than some competing units, which can make wall storage difficult.
The front of the port features five different Ethernet routing ports along with a console port. There are also individual LED indicator lights that let you know how each port is performing. The light will be off if the port is down, yellow if it is operating at 10 Mbps or 100 Mbps, and green if it is operating at the max speed of 1,000 Mbps.
The Ubiquiti Networks EdgeRouter ERPoe-5 is one of the few desktop devices that can route up to 1 million data packets per second, a feature that can help keep download and buffering times low.
Should you buy the Ubiquiti Networks EdgeRouter ERPoe-5?
Overall, if you are interested in an Ethernet switch that you can manage and customize to fit your needs, then the Ubiquiti Networks ERPoe-5 EdgeRouter has plenty of standout features. However, it only has five ports, and the customizable interface is designed for seasoned users.
If you are looking for a simple plug-and-play design that will troubleshoot issues on its own, other Ethernet switches can do that better. If this type of robust home system is what you need for advanced network diagnostics and performance, the Ubiquiti Networks switch is worth considering. And all of this assumes you can even find one in stores these days. There are better options out there.
