I got a network switch that is showing zero activity across about a dozen ports, the most important of which is the feed from the router from upstairs. This happened out of nowhere and I don't think it's the switch unless the backup I tried is also bad. I also tested the cable leading from the router and it passes the continuity test at the very least. Even if that line was dead, wouldn't the switch show at least SOME activity as devices try to access each other? I'm no IT master, but peer to peer still happens in a network, doesn't it? Anyway, it's been a few days of trying to fix this myself, so I finally turn to reddit. Any ideas, lads?
You don't have link-lights showing in that photo.
Unplug all of the cables from the switch, and power-cycle the switch.
Then, try plugging just ONE of the cables into the switch, and see if any of the link lights come on -- being sure to note that they may take a second or two before they light up.
No joy? Unplug that cable, and try another one.
If none of your cables end up turning on your link lights, then your switch is most likely dead.
Try the other switch, and see if you get the same results.
I did this with no dice, then tried again on my backup switch and it seems to be working. Don't know why it wasn't working before, but you may have pushed me into the direction of discovering my switch was in fact, dead. Guess I'll be buying a new one lol
From my experience, switches are the most likely part of your network to die a sudden death, especially after a reboot or power outage.
Check if there's warranty on it.
I haven’t had a single switch die since getting Ethernet surge protection between the modem-router combo and my switches.
I haven’t bought a UPS in a while but last time I did it had Ethernet protection but only supported 10/100. You may have to get a standalone data surge protector to get gigabit speeds.
I work at an MSP so we oversee a lot of network devices.
Switches die proportionally more often compared to other network equipment.
I know it’s anecdotal but I used to have to replace my router or router/AP combo every 12-18 months.
The first router on the Ethernet protection ran for two years and was replaced because I wanted 11g
All the routers since then have lasted at least 7 years.
Maybe it’s snake oil, maybe not, but it seems to work for me.
Unlikely a warranty, and I don't care anyway, just getting a new Netgear one