IronSights

Network & infrastructure

Power over EthernetPoE

A standard that allows network switches to deliver electrical power to connected devices — such as IP cameras, access points, and VoIP phones — over the same Cat5e/Cat6 cable used for data.

Also known asPoEPoE switchPoE+PoE++IEEE 802.3afIEEE 802.3at

In plain English

PoE eliminates the need for a separate power outlet at every network device. A PoE-enabled switch sends both data and electricity down the same Ethernet cable, so an IP camera or Wi-Fi access point can be mounted wherever network cable can reach, without needing a power point nearby. This is especially useful for cameras positioned at ceiling height, in car parks, or in locations where running both power and data cabling would be difficult.

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More terms in the IronSights Glossary.