Zyxel launches flexible GS1915v2 switches for small firms

Zyxel Networks has launched the GS1915v2 series of Gigabit Smart Managed Switches for small businesses, with nine models in the range.

The series is aimed at small offices, shops, cafes and clinics, where network equipment often has to be installed in tight or improvised spaces rather than dedicated communications rooms.

The portfolio includes 8-, 10-, 16- and 24-port models, in both Power over Ethernet and non-Power over Ethernet variants. Some also include fibre uplinks for longer-distance connections, while fanless options are designed for quieter settings.

Zyxel is positioning the line around installation flexibility. Desktop, wall, rack and DIN-rail mounting options are available across the range, allowing businesses to place switches in back offices, under counters or in storage areas without additional building work.

Six models support PoE budgets ranging from 60W to 180W, allowing a single cable to provide both power and data to equipment such as IP cameras, wireless access points and door access systems.

One model, the GS1915-8PDv2, can itself be powered from a PoE switch. This is intended for sites where a power socket is not available near the installation point.

Management options

Alongside the hardware changes, the GS1915v2 series supports both local management and the company's Nebula cloud management platform. Nebula's free tier provides remote configuration, real-time monitoring and centralised management.

Compared with the previous generation, the series also adds enhanced access control list functions and Dynamic VLAN features. These additions are designed to give smaller organisations more control over how users and devices are segmented across the network.

Zyxel has also changed the front-panel design, replacing dense text labels with icons and a simplified LED layout to make status checks easier for users and installers.

Installation focus

The launch reflects a common challenge in the small business market, where networks are often deployed in premises not built with dedicated infrastructure in mind. Retail sites, hospitality venues and smaller professional offices may have limited ventilation, restricted mounting space and few convenient power outlets.

In those environments, even a minor network upgrade can trigger extra site work. By offering a wider mix of port counts, power options and mounting formats, Zyxel aims to reduce the amount of adaptation needed before equipment can be installed.

Zyxel also pointed to changes in packaging and power use. According to the company, the compact design and revised packaging increase the number of units that can be shipped per pallet, with shipping efficiency rising by up to 198% for one model compared with its predecessor.

A dedicated LED control button lets users switch off front-panel lights. According to Zyxel, this can reduce unnecessary power use and limit light disturbance in home offices and other low-light environments.

Gary Chen, ANZ Regional Head at Zyxel Networks, said the range was designed around practical problems faced by smaller organisations and their service partners.

"Small businesses should not have to redesign their premises just to install reliable networking," said Chen. "The GS1915v2 series gives them more choice over where and how their switches are installed, while keeping management straightforward as their needs change. For our system integrator and MSP partners, having one portfolio that can cover different customer environments can also simplify procurement, support and staff training."