TP-Link TL-SG3428X-M2 - JetStream 24-Port 2.5GBASE-T L2+ Managed Switch with 4 10GE SFP+ Slots

This TP-Link TL-SG3428X-M2 JetStream switch is engineered for modern offices, data centers, and high-density network environments that demand fast, reliable connectivity. With 24 copper ports delivering 2.5GBASE-T performance and four high-speed 10GE SFP+ uplinks, this switch provides a robust foundation for bandwidth-intensive tasks like streaming media, virtual desktop infrastructure, network storage access, and multi-camera IP surveillance. Designed for small-to-mid-sized deployments, the TL-SG3428X-M2 blends enterprise-grade features with a straightforward management experience, making it easy to scale as your network grows. Whether you’re building a campus network, upgrading a lab, or optimizing a retail IT backbone, this JetStream switch delivers the speed, security, and control you need to keep devices and users running smoothly.

• High-density 2.5GBASE-T access ports: 24 copper 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports empower you to upgrade workstations, IP cameras, NAS, and virtualization hosts without overhauling your cabling. 2.5G bandwidth reduces bottlenecks when multiple devices on a single LAN segment demand more throughput than traditional 1G can provide.
• Powerful 4 x 10GE SFP+ uplinks: Four uplink slots support 10G fiber connections for rapid aggregation to your core switch, data center, or storage area network. This scalable uplink design helps you create resilient, multi-tier networks with ample headroom for future growth.
• Layer 2+ switching for smarter networks: Built-in features like VLAN separation, advanced QoS, ACLs, IGMP/MLD snooping, and link aggregation (LACP) deliver fine-grained control over traffic, ensuring critical applications get priority and security boundaries stay intact.
• Flexible management and visibility: A comprehensive management suite includes a web-based graphical interface, CLI access, SNMP support, and IPv6 compatibility. This enables easy deployment, centralized monitoring, and integration with existing network management systems.
• Reliable performance in a compact chassis: Engineered for durable, continuous operation in office racks or data closets, the TL-SG3428X-M2 delivers consistent throughput, low latency, and simple expansion pathways as your network evolves.

Technical Details of TP-Link TL-SG3428X-M2

• Ports: 24 x 2.5GBASE-T RJ45 Ethernet ports; 4 x 10G SFP+ uplink slots
• Switching capacity and throughput designed to handle dense LAN traffic with low latency
• Layer 2+ features: VLAN, QoS, ACLs, IGMP/MLD snooping, port isolation, static MAC, and link aggregation (LACP)
• Management: Web GUI, secure CLI (SSH), SNMP, and IPv6 support for modern network administration
• Deployment: rack-mountable 1U form factor suitable for enterprise and SMB network cores
• Security and reliability: enterprise-grade access control and traffic enforcement to protect critical services

How to install TP-Link TL-SG3428X-M2

• Plan your topology: determine the placement in a network rack, identify where the 24 ports will connect end devices, and reserve the 4 uplink SFP+ slots for core or distribution links.
• Mount the switch: install the unit in a standard 19-inch rack using the included mounting brackets and screws. Ensure proper ventilation to prevent overheating.
• Power and initial connectivity: connect the switch to a reliable power source. Connect a computer or management workstation to one of the Ethernet management ports or a designated management IP if pre-configured.
• Access the management interface: open a web browser and enter the switch’s default IP address (or use a DHCP-assigned address if your network offers DHCP). Log in with the default credentials provided by TP-Link and begin the initial setup.
• Configure network basics: assign IP addresses, configure VLANs for segmentation, set up 2.5GBASE-T port groups for specific departments, and establish LACP bundles on the 10G SFP+ uplinks for uplink resiliency and throughput.
• Enable security and QoS: implement ACLs to protect sensitive devices, configure QoS policies to prioritize latency-sensitive traffic such as VoIP and video conferencing, and enable IGMP snooping for efficient multicast streaming.
• Connect end devices: attach workstations, servers, storage devices, cameras, and access points to the 2.5G ports and connect the 10G uplinks to your core network or data center.
• Verify and monitor: run basic connectivity tests, check link status, confirm VLAN tagging is functioning as intended, and use the SNMP and logs to monitor traffic patterns and device health.

Frequently asked questions

• What makes the TL-SG3428X-M2 suitable for modern networks? It combines dense 2.5G access with high-speed 10G uplinks, enabling efficient bandwidth distribution to multiple devices while leaving room for future growth. Layer 2+ features and comprehensive management tools give IT teams control, security, and visibility across the network.
• Do I need Cat6 or higher cables for 2.5GBASE-T ports? Yes. To achieve the full 2.5 Gbps bandwidth on 2.5GBASE-T ports, use at least Cat6 Ethernet cabling (Cat6a for longer distances), especially in environments with higher interference.
• Can I chain multiple TL-SG3428X-M2 switches? The switch supports standard L2/L2+ stacking concepts via link aggregation and uplinks. For large deployments, you can connect multiple switches to a core device using 10G SFP+ links to create a scalable, multi-switch network.
• Is IPv6 supported? Yes. The TL-SG3428X-M2 includes IPv6-compatible management features to help future-proof your network and simplify address management.
• What management options are available? You can manage the switch via a web-based graphical user interface, CLI over SSH, and standard network management protocols (SNMP), giving flexibility for small offices and enterprise environments alike.