NETGEAR GS305E - User Manual

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Installation Guide

1. Register with the NETGEAR Insight App

Use the NETGEAR Insight app to register your switch, activate your warranty, and

access support.

1. On your iOS or Android mobile device, visit the app store, search for

NETGEAR Insight, and download the latest version of the app.

2. Open the NETGEAR Insight app.

3. If you did not set up a NETGEAR account, tap Create NETGEAR Account

and follow the onscreen instructions.

4. Enter the email address and password for your account and tap LOG IN.

5. Tap + in the upper-right corner.

6. Either use the camera on your phone to scan the serial number bar code

located on the bottom of the switch, or enter the serial number.

7. Tap Go.

8. Follow the onscreen instructions to add your switch to a network location.

The switch is registered and added to your account.

2. Connect the Switch

3. Discover the IP Address of the Switch

An IP address is required to conﬁgure your switch. The switch gets an IP

address from a DHCP server (such as your router) by default. If your switch is not

connected to a DHCP server, use the default IP address: 192.168.0.239.

1. Connect your mobile device to the same WiFi network as the switch.

2. Make sure that the network connects to the Internet.

3. Launch the NETGEAR Insight app from your mobile device.

4. Log in to your account.

The current IP address of the switch displays.

4. Congure the Switch

We recommend that you use a web browser on a computer or tablet to conﬁgure

the switch.

Note: If your computer is a Mac, use the NETGEAR Switch Discovery Tool, as

described on the other side of this document.

1. Open a web browser from a computer or tablet connected to the same

network as your switch.

You can use a WiFi or wired connection.

2. Enter the IP address of the switch.

3. Enter the password.

The default password is password. We recommend that you change the

password to a more secure password.

4. Click the Login button.

NETGEAR 5-Port and 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet

Smart Managed Plus SOHO Switch

Model GS305E and GS308E

Package Contents

• Switch model GS305E or GS308E

• Power adapter (varies by region)

• Installation guide

Ethernet cables not included.

Sample Network Conguration

GS308E switch

Router

IP camera

ReadyNAS

Gaming console

Smart TV

Internet

Laptop

Desktop

Need help?

Do you have a question about the NETGEAR GS305E and is the answer not in the manual?

Summary

Register with the NETGEAR Insight App

Discover the IP Address of the Switch

Other Discovery and Configuration Methods

NETGEAR Switch Discovery Tool

Utilize the NETGEAR Switch Discovery Tool on Mac or Windows for IP discovery and browser interface access.

ProSAFE Plus Utility

Download the ProSAFE Plus Utility for latest features and user manual to manage the switch.

Summary

Register with the NETGEAR Insight App

Discover the IP Address of the Switch

Other Discovery and Configuration Methods

NETGEAR Switch Discovery Tool

Utilize the NETGEAR Switch Discovery Tool on Mac or Windows for IP discovery and browser interface access.

ProSAFE Plus Utility

Download the ProSAFE Plus Utility for latest features and user manual to manage the switch.

This document serves as an installation guide for the NETGEAR 5-Port and 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Smart Managed Plus SOHO Switches, models GS305E and GS308E. It outlines the steps for setting up, configuring, and managing these network switches, emphasizing ease of use for small office/home office (SOHO) environments.

Function Description

The NETGEAR GS305E and GS308E are Smart Managed Plus SOHO Switches designed to provide reliable and efficient network connectivity. These switches offer Gigabit Ethernet speeds, enabling high-speed data transfer for connected devices. As "Smart Managed Plus" switches, they provide a balance between plug-and-play simplicity and advanced network management features, allowing users to optimize network performance without requiring extensive IT expertise. They are suitable for expanding an existing network, connecting multiple wired devices, or creating a dedicated network segment for specific applications like gaming consoles, smart TVs, or network-attached storage (NAS) devices. The switches automatically assign IP addresses to connected devices if a DHCP server (typically a router) is present in the network, simplifying initial setup. If no DHCP server is available, they default to a specific IP address, allowing for manual configuration. The primary function is to facilitate communication between multiple wired network devices, acting as a central hub for data exchange within a local area network (LAN).

Usage Features

The NETGEAR GS305E and GS308E switches are designed for straightforward deployment and management, catering to users who may not have extensive networking knowledge.

Easy Registration and Warranty Activation: The initial setup process is streamlined through the NETGEAR Insight app. Users can download the app on their iOS or Android mobile device, create a NETGEAR account if they don't have one, and then register their switch by scanning its serial number barcode or manually entering it. This process not only registers the device but also activates its warranty and provides access to NETGEAR support resources. This app-based registration simplifies what can often be a complex initial step for network devices.
Flexible Network Connection: The switches can be integrated into various network configurations. They connect to a router or other network devices using standard Ethernet cables. The guide illustrates a sample network configuration showing the switch connecting a desktop PC, IP camera, laptop, ReadyNAS, gaming console, and smart TV to a router, demonstrating its versatility in a typical SOHO environment.
IP Address Discovery: To configure the switch, its IP address must be known. By default, the switch obtains an IP address from a DHCP server (usually a router). If no DHCP server is present, it uses a default IP address (192.168.0.239). The NETGEAR Insight app is the primary tool for discovering the switch's current IP address once it's connected to the network and registered. This eliminates the need for manual IP scanning tools for most users.
Web Browser-Based Configuration: For detailed configuration, the switches offer a web browser interface. Users can access this interface by entering the switch's IP address into a web browser from a computer or tablet connected to the same network. The default password for initial access is "password," which the guide recommends changing for security. This web interface allows users to manage various network settings and features.
Alternative Discovery Tools: For users who prefer or require alternative methods, NETGEAR provides the "NETGEAR Switch Discovery Tool" for Mac and 64-bit Windows computers, and the "ProSAFE Plus Utility." These tools can also discover the switch's IP address and provide access to its local browser interface, offering flexibility in management.
Smart Managed Plus Features: While not explicitly detailed in this guide, the "Smart Managed Plus" designation implies features beyond basic unmanaged switches. These typically include Quality of Service (QoS) for prioritizing network traffic, VLAN support for network segmentation, link aggregation (LAG) for increased bandwidth, and basic monitoring capabilities. These features allow users to optimize network performance for specific applications and enhance network security.
Plug-and-Play Operation: Once connected, the switches generally operate without requiring extensive manual configuration for basic functionality. Devices connected to the switch can communicate with each other and access the internet (if the switch is connected to a router) immediately.

Maintenance Features

The maintenance aspects of the NETGEAR GS305E and GS308E switches are primarily focused on ensuring continued operation and security.

Firmware Updates: Although not explicitly detailed in this installation guide, Smart Managed Plus switches typically receive firmware updates to improve performance, add new features, and address security vulnerabilities. Users would usually access these updates through the NETGEAR support website or potentially through the Insight app or web interface.
Password Management: A crucial maintenance feature highlighted is the recommendation to change the default password ("password") for the web configuration interface to a more secure one. This is a fundamental security practice to prevent unauthorized access to the switch's settings.
Troubleshooting Resources: The guide directs users to the NETGEAR support website (https://www.netgear.com/support/) for product registration, help, downloads, user manuals, and community forums. This centralized resource serves as the primary point for troubleshooting and obtaining assistance.
Regulatory Compliance Information: For regulatory compliance details, including the EU Declaration of Conformity, users are directed to https://www.netgear.com/about/regulatory/. This ensures users have access to important legal and safety information.
Safety and Warranty Information: The guide provides a link (https://kb.netgear.com/000057103) for safety and warranty information, particularly regarding the use of the device outdoors or with outdoor cables/devices. This emphasizes safe operation and understanding warranty terms.
Firewall/Antivirus Considerations: For troubleshooting connectivity or configuration issues, the guide suggests temporarily disabling firewall, Internet security, or antivirus programs. This is a common diagnostic step for network devices, reminding users to re-enable these protections afterward.
Documentation Access: The guide itself serves as a key maintenance resource, providing clear instructions for initial setup and pointing to further documentation like user manuals (available via the ProSAFE Plus Utility download page) and support articles.
Physical Maintenance: While not explicitly stated, general physical maintenance would involve ensuring proper ventilation, keeping the device free from dust, and ensuring secure cable connections. The compact design of SOHO switches typically requires minimal physical intervention once installed.

NETGEAR GS305E Specifications

General

Master (outer) case width	344 mm
Master (outer) case height	280 mm
Master (outer) case length	497 mm
Master (outer) case weight	10170 g
Harmonized System (HS) code	85176990
Quantity per master (outer) case	15 pc(s)
Package type	Box
Package depth	237 mm
Package width	153 mm
Package height	61 mm
Package weight	600 g
Switch type	Managed
Quality of Service (QoS) support	Yes
Installed SFP modules quantity	0
Basic switching RJ-45 Ethernet ports type	Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000)
Basic switching RJ-45 Ethernet ports quantity	5
Stackable	-
Product color	Black
Rack mounting	No
LED indicators	Activity, Link, Power, Speed, System
Number of VLANs	64
Networking standards	IEEE 802.1Q, IEEE 802.1p, IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3ab, IEEE 802.3az, IEEE 802.3u, IEEE 802.3x
Virtual LAN features	Tagged VLAN, Port-based VLAN
DHCP features	DHCP client
Noise level	0 dB
Mean time between failures (MTBF)	2531294 h
Jumbo frames	9000
MAC address table	8000 entries
Operating altitude	0 - 3000 m
Storage temperature (T-T)	-20 - 70 °C
Operating temperature (T-T)	0 - 50 °C
Storage relative humidity (H-H)	0 - 95 %
Operating relative humidity (H-H)	0 - 90 %