When we say a 10/100/1000Mbps network switch, it's the same thing as a 1-gigabit Ethernet switch. 1-gigabit ethernet switch means a switch that supports all the 3 transmission rates as 10Mbps, 100Mbps, and 1000Mbps. When it's connected with a device, it will automatically detect the rate needed and transmit with that specific rate, we do not need to deal with any configuration. In today's market, the GB Ethernet switch takes a huge part and have replaced many of the 10/100 switches. 1 Gigabit Ethernet switches are working in the same way, only the data transmission rate is much bigger than the fast Ethernet switches. Small offices and homes always choose 1000mbps switch in a Local Lan Network. It allows more than one device to share an Internet connection.
Generally speaking, Ethernet network speeds cover Ethernet (802.11) at 10Mbps, Fast Ethernet (IEEE 802.3u) at 100Mbps, Gigabit Ethernet (IEEE 802.3-2008) at 1000Mbps and 10 Gigabit Ethernet (IEEE 802.3a) at 10Gbps. Nowadays, Ethernet switches have been upgraded to a gigabit switch, 10G switch or even 100G switches.
Before deciding which is the right switch for your network, it would be better if you can check closely at your current deployment and future improvement needs. When we consider which option to use, we have to judge which infrastructure is the best for the business. Currently, the gigabit switch is much more commonly used and popular than fast Ethernet switches. Literally speaking, a gigabit switch speeds up your network 10 times greater than a 10/100Mbps fast Ethernet switch. If using a gigabit switch, all the connected devices in the network have to be kept at the same transmission rate. Even only 1 device is not gigabit, the entire network will be limited to 10/100Mbps only. So before upgrading to the gigabit network environment, you have to check all components in your network and make sure all of them are gigabit compliant. Besides, gigabit switches are more energy-saving than 10/100Mbps switches. To summarize, if you need more than Internet browsing, we would recommend you to choose Gigabit Ethernet switches instead of fast Ethernet switches, even the cost would be a little more. In the end, it will bring lots of conveniences and satisfaction to you.