CONCLUSION
The EnGenius ECS1008P may not be the highest performance switch to ever reach the lab (and it lacks PoE+ support – even though PoE is enough for the majority of uses out there) but it does have two redeeming qualities, easy Cloud access (factory ready) and a very compact size. For the majority of users Cloud access may not be a deal breaker but for professionals and people who want access to a local network at all times it is and that’s something we don’t see a lot in this industry, certainly not with “entry-level” models such as the ECS1008P. Size is equally important especially if you plan on mounting the switch onto a vertical surface like a wall. Again, far from a deal breaker but useful nonetheless. As for available features the ECS1008P is packed with what we see from smart and managed switches, perhaps not to the same degree (or versions) but still more than enough to cover the majority of users out there today.
I was unable to locate the ECS1008P Cloud Enabled 8-Port Gigabit PoE L2 Managed Switch by EnGenius in the states (at least not with a fresh price tag) but it’s currently available in the EU (Amazon.de) for a very fair price tag of 70.95Euros. Overall, the ECS1008P is a very balanced affordable switch, performance is ok, feature set leaves very little to be desired, PoE support should suffice for most uses and the Cloud Access feature is extremely useful. Because all of the above the ECS1008P comes highly recommended by us to anyone looking to get an affordable PoE switch with out of the box Cloud Access.
PROS
- Compact Size
- 8 RJ45 Gigabit PoE Ports
- EnGenius Cloud Access
- Available Settings / Features
- Power Consumption
- Price (For Some)
CONS
- Maximum PoE Power Output Of 55W
- Passive Cooling (Not for Harsh Conditions)