Andrew Zbikowski wrote:
> Dell PowerConnect switches are good, I haven't run into anything unexpected.
>
> I have had some issues with a Netgear Gig siwtch (don't know the exact
> model). When setting up a Link Aggregation Group with a Dell switch,
> the end result was a non functioning network until the LAG group was
> removed. LAG groups between the Dell switch and another Dell switch as
> well as the Dell switch and Cisco switch work fine.
>
> Figure out if you need/want a Layer 2 or Layer 3 switch. If you decide
> layer 2, you have to pick between managed and unmanaged. From what I
> can tell, you're looking for at least a Layer 2 Managed switch.
>
> Most recent managed switches seem to have a web and CLI config mode.
> Also if you're looking for features that your clients may be using,
> look for a switch that will do https and ssh for the management and
> allows you to disable http and telnet. These features may be required
> for various security requirements.
>   
The one thing I didn't like about the PowerConnect 2708 that I picked up 
was that it doesn't support SNMP.  This wasn't a show-stopper for me at 
the time, just a disappointment that I wouldn't be able to run MRTG 
against that particular device.

Other than lack of SNMP, the PowerConnect has been great for SOHO use.

-- j