Review of the EnGenius Switch Extender EXT1106.

In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, efficient networking solutions are paramount for businesses of all sizes. The EnGenius EXT1105P and EXT1106 switch extenders provide versatile and cost-effective options for extending Ethernet networks and adding additional ports in locations where power access is limited. This review delves into the functionality, performance, and value proposition of the EXT1106, comparing it to its predecessor, the EXT1105P, and alternative solutions from Unifi.

The EnGenius EXT1105P switch extender is an innovative solution designed to extend Ethernet connectivity beyond the traditional 100-meter limit. It is particularly useful for adding additional Ethernet ports in areas where power sockets are not easily accessible. The device is powered solely by PoE (Power over Ethernet) and can pass through up to 30W of power on its second port, adhering to the 802.3at/af standard. This feature makes it an ideal choice for environments where extending network infrastructure is a challenge.

Building on the success of the EXT1105P, the EnGenius EXT1106 offers a similar concept but with a more streamlined design. The EXT1106 features five gigabit Ethernet ports and an SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable) port, providing additional flexibility for network expansion. One of the key differences is its power options; the EXT1106 can be powered through the first port using PoE++ (IEEE 802.3bt) or via a USB-C port, allowing for versatile deployment scenarios.

Unlike the EXT1105P, the EXT1106 does not have a second PoE output port. However, the inclusion of the USB-C power input compensates for this by enabling the first port to be used for PoE out. This design consideration broadens the device's utility, making it a versatile tool for various network configurations.

A notable feature of both the EXT1105P and EXT1106 switch extenders is their compatibility with EnGenius Cloud and EnGenius FitXpress management systems. EnGenius Cloud offers comprehensive network management capabilities, ideal for larger enterprises requiring advanced features and scalability. On the other hand, EnGenius FitXpress is a more budget-friendly option, providing essential network management functionalities without a subscription fee. This makes it an excellent choice for small businesses with more modest networking needs.

Both management systems offer user-friendly interfaces, which I have previously reviewed. For a visual representation, I have included screenshots of the user interfaces for each system. During a week-long test in my office, the EnGenius EXT1106 switch extender performed admirably. It reliably connected several mini PCs and my primary work PC, maintaining consistent gigabit throughput during file transfers to my Unraid NAS. Throughout the testing period, there was no noticeable downtime, and the device demonstrated robust performance.

The EnGenius EXT1106 switch extender is priced at $59, making it an affordable option for businesses looking to extend their network capabilities. In comparison, the EXT1105P is priced at $119 and offers a 30W PoE output but lacks a USB-C power input. The EXT1109P, available at $155, includes a gigabit PoE input port, four gigabit PoE output ports, three additional gigabit Ethernet ports, and an SFP port, providing even more flexibility for complex network setups.

The EnGenius EXT1106 switch extender is a versatile and cost-effective networking solution suitable for various scenarios. While its price is slightly higher than some competing products from Unifi, its robust feature set and reliable performance make it an excellent value for money at $59. Whether for small businesses or larger enterprises, the EXT1106 provides a practical solution for extending network capabilities and enhancing connectivity in challenging environments.