Ways To Keep Your Network Switch From Overheating

Ways to Keep Your Network Switch from Overheating

Here are some ways to keep your network switch from overheating. Read along and learn everything on the topic!

Hot Air Rises And Expands

As you know, hot air will rise. Also, when the air becomes hot, it will expand. This will make it less dense, and it will float on the dense cold air that is located below the hot air. This is basic science that most people know. That is why a hot air balloon can go into the sky and why the upper section of your home is warmer than other sections. 

PRO TIP: Learn all about small business wireless network setup before you continue. We know it will provide insight on this topic.

Network Switches and Heat 

Hot air is going to be bad news for your network switches. This is because most switches will be installed at the top level of your cabinet. The servers will be located beneath your switch. A server is known for creating heat. This heat will rise to your network switch on the top. A server will create a lot of heat and the network switches are going to take most of that warm air. This is why they will often fail due to overheating issues. 

You may also find that the network switch is installed at the back. This location will put more pressure on the network switch. Overheating is more common when the network switch is located in the back of your rack. While it may be convenient because you can access the cables, it is not the best place to put it. The switch gets all the hot air from the server. 

That is why you should use in-rack cooling. This can ensure that your network switch will not overheat. It will provide a cooling support that will ensure all equipment inside the rack stays cool. 

Why Your Switch Needs Cooling 

Your network switch is the workhouse of your data center. It will route data and traffic when users are connected to the internet and is a major component of a wifi network and IT infrastructure. When your switch becomes hot and possibly fails, the network services for many different systems will fail. This could make you lose money because your uptime is now down and you will also need to hire an IT infrastructure company to help. 

Best Network Switch Temperatures 

Network switches are designed to withstand a certain amount of heat. They are able to function as long as temperatures do not exceed 113 degrees. Keep in mind, these are high-quality switches being used. When your switch reaches temperatures close to 113 degrees, your switch can start to slow and even drop pockets. Your performance of all applications is going to be degrading. 

If you are in an industrial setting, your switch may be able to handle more heat. Many industrial switches are going to be able to handle 185 degrees. This may be a better bet for those who have a harsh environment. With that said, it is best to make sure you are picking the right switch for your needs. 

How to Cool Your Network Switch 

There are a few different ways that you can help cool your network switch. Many people who use network switches often have air conditioning in their room. These units are installed in every room to ensure that the entire facility is cool. Keep in mind that this method does not account for temperature changes that are created by the equipment. This can cause hotspots to form. 

To get cooler air to your network switch, you can remove what is known as the blanking panels. They are installed in your rack or cabinet. You can also use fans that go inside the rack or cabinet. This will improve the circulation of air and push cool air towards the network switch. Both of the methods above are going to allow cold air to flow in the rack or cabinet. This will reduce hot air, but the cool air will mix with the hot air. With that said, it means that it is not the most efficient way to cool your network switch. 

The best situation is in-rack cooling. This will allow your network switch to remain cool. When you go this route, you will have a rack mounted for a cooling unit. It will go into the cabinet and provide cool air directly to all your equipment. This helps reduce heat. Plus, there will be hot air exhaust that helps redirect the warm air. Installing an in-rack cooling system is the best bet to maintain optimal temperatures for your network switch and other equipment. 

Wrapping Up: Ways To Keep Your Network Switch From Overheating

Now that you know what a network switch is and how important it is to prevent overheating, you may want to install an in-rack cooling system or any other type of network equipment. This will help ensure that you are not going to overheat. This is something that you should allow professionals to do so that it is installed properly. Contact Network Data Cabling today to schedule an appointment! Even give us a call with any questions you may have. Take the time to learn, protect, and maintain your network cabling system and choose us if you are seeking the best IT infrastructure services in Bangalore .  We can help with a variety of wifi services including router setup and installation and more.