NETGEAR MS305 5-Port 2.5G Multi-Gigabit Ethernet

Overview

The NETGEAR MS305 5-Port 2.5G Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Essentials Switch provides a simple way to upgrade wired connectivity to multi-gigabit speeds. It features five 1G/2.5G Ethernet RJ-45 ports, allowing compatible devices to connect at 100Mbps, 1Gbps or 2.5Gbps. Therefore, the MS305 is a practical choice for users who want faster wired networking without complex setup or network management.

Unlike managed switches, the NETGEAR MS305 works as a plug-and-play device. You can connect the switch to your existing router and then connect computers, gaming systems, network storage, workstations and other Ethernet devices. In addition, its fanless design provides silent operation, while the compact metal enclosure supports desktop or wall-mounted installation.

The MS305 also provides a 25Gbps switching fabric and supports IEEE 802.3bz 2.5GBASE-T. As a result, it can make better use of modern multi-gigabit internet connections and compatible network devices. NETGEAR also includes Energy Efficient Ethernet support to help reduce power use when network traffic is low.

Key Features

• 5 × 1G/2.5G Ethernet RJ-45 ports
• Supports 100Mbps, 1Gbps and 2.5Gbps connections
• 25Gbps switching bandwidth
• Unmanaged plug-and-play operation
• Fanless and silent design
• Durable metal enclosure
• Desktop and wall-mount installation
• 16K MAC address table
• 1MB packet buffer
• 9,720-byte jumbo frame support
• IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet
• IEEE 802.1p QoS support
• Auto MDI/MDI-X detection
• Full-duplex flow control

Technical Specifications

NETGEAR specifies five 100Mbps/1G/2.5G ports, a 25Gbps bandwidth, 16K MAC table, 1MB buffer and 9,720-byte jumbo frame support for the MS305. The switch also uses a fanless metal enclosure and supports desktop or wall mounting.

Benefits of the NETGEAR MS305

• Faster wired networking: 2.5Gbps ports can provide more bandwidth than standard Gigabit Ethernet.
• Simple installation: The unmanaged design requires no software configuration.
• Quiet operation: The fanless design produces no added fan noise.
• Flexible connectivity: Each port supports 100Mbps, 1Gbps and 2.5Gbps devices.
• Compact design: The small enclosure fits easily on a desk or wall.
• Efficient operation: IEEE 802.3az support helps reduce energy use during periods of low network activity.

What Can You Connect to the MS305?

The MS305 can connect a range of compatible Ethernet devices. For example, you can use it with a desktop computer, laptop docking station, gaming console, network-attached storage, WiFi access point, smart TV or other wired network equipment.

It can also help users build a faster local network where several devices support 2.5GbE. However, the connected router, network adapter, cabling and other equipment must also support the required speed to achieve 2.5Gbps connectivity.

2.5GbE Connectivity

The main advantage of the MS305 is its 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet support. Each of its five RJ-45 ports can negotiate between 100Mbps, 1Gbps and 2.5Gbps based on the connected device. Therefore, users can connect newer multi-gigabit equipment while continuing to use existing Gigabit Ethernet devices.

For the best results, use suitable Ethernet cabling. NETGEAR recommends Cat 5e or higher-rated cables for connections to the MS305.

Unmanaged Plug-and-Play Design

The MS305 does not require a management interface or software configuration. Simply connect the switch to your network and attach your Ethernet devices. The switch automatically handles compatible connections and speed negotiation.

This makes the MS305 particularly useful when you want to add Ethernet ports without dealing with VLAN configuration, routing or advanced switch management.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the NETGEAR MS305?

The NETGEAR MS305 is a 5-port unmanaged Ethernet switch with five 100Mbps/1Gbps/2.5Gbps RJ-45 ports. It provides plug-and-play multi-gigabit wired connectivity.

Is the NETGEAR MS305 a 2.5GbE switch?

Yes. All five Ethernet ports support speeds up to 2.5Gbps. They can also operate at 1Gbps or 100Mbps when connected to compatible devices.

Is the MS305 managed or unmanaged?

The MS305 is an unmanaged switch. It is designed for plug-and-play operation and does not require software configuration.

Does the MS305 support PoE?

No. The MS305 is not a PoE switch. If you need to power compatible devices through Ethernet, choose a NETGEAR PoE model instead.

Can I connect the MS305 to my existing router?

Yes. You can connect one MS305 port to your router and use the remaining ports for compatible wired devices.

What Ethernet cable should I use with the MS305?

NETGEAR recommends Cat 5e or higher-rated Ethernet cables. The switch supports 100BASE-TX, 1000BASE-T and 2.5GBASE-T connections.

Does the MS305 make noise?

The MS305 uses a fanless design, so it does not add fan noise during normal operation.

Does the MS305 support jumbo frames?

Yes. The MS305 supports jumbo frames up to 9,720 bytes.

How many devices can I connect?

The MS305 has five Ethernet ports. However, one port may be used for the connection to your router or upstream network, leaving four ports for additional wired devices in a typical setup.

Does the MS305 support VLANs?

No. The MS305 is an unmanaged switch. If you need VLAN configuration or other managed features, consider a NETGEAR Easy Smart or managed switch.