You do not always need a switch. A small IP camera system can run cameras straight into the PoE ports on the NVR.
You need a switch when
- You have more cameras than PoE ports on the recorder.
- You are adding a video intercom, door station, or access point. Those want their own PoE ports, not camera ports on the NVR.
- The recorder sits in one room and the cable runs land in another. The switch is the meeting point.
- You want a spare port so the next camera does not mean a new recorder.
Count devices, then buy a switch with a few ports left over. 8-port covers most houses and shops. Bigger buildings step up.
Shop switches · What is a PoE switch
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