QNAP Introduces Budget-Friendly Smart Edge Managed Switches for Enhanced Connectivity

QNAP Systems, a innovator in computing, networking, and storage solutions, has launched its latest products in the form of the QGD-1600 and QGD-1602 smart edge switches. These switches not only provide advanced Layer 2 network management capabilities but also support the deployment of virtual machines (VMs) for enhanced security and network management functions.

The QGD-1600 and QGD-1602 switches are designed to integrate the functionalities of NAS and switches, a concept that has garnered positive feedback from users. With the introduction of these non-PoE models, QNAP aims to provide a cost-effective All-in-One network solution that incorporates cybersecurity software for improved LAN security or the ability to run VMs for various software applications.

The QGD series boasts impressive features, including Layer 2 management functions through the QNAP Switch System (QSS). The QGD-1602 model stands out with its eight 2.5GbE RJ45 ports, eight Gigabit RJ45 ports, two 10GbE SFP+ fiber ports, and Intel Atom C3000 processors with QuickAssist technology. This combination ensures high-performance virtualization applications and faster IPsec VPN transmission. Additionally, the QGD-1602 supports dual PCIe Gen 3 x4 slots and dual M.2 NVMe SSD slots for SSD caching, resulting in improved IOPS performance.

On the other hand, the QGD-1600 model offers fourteen Gigabit RJ45 ports, two Gigabit RJ45/SFP combo ports, an Intel Celeron J4115 processor, and dual PCIe Gen 2 x2 slots. It also allows for flexible storage expansion by connecting to QNAP storage expansion units.

One of the standout features of these switches is the ability to deploy ADRA Network Detection and Response (NDR) cybersecurity software. By installing this software on the QGD-1600 or QGD-1602 at the access switch layer, users can benefit from cost-efficient enterprise LAN security. ADRA NDR actively identifies and blocks suspicious lateral movements on the local network, safeguarding private and confidential data from malicious attacks.

Furthermore, the QGD-1600 and QGD-1602 switches support the QTS operating system, enabling the running of versatile QNAP software and VM applications. For instance, QuWAN, QNAP’s SD-WAN solution, facilitates full mesh IPsec VPN topology between QNAP devices across multiple sites, catering to various enterprise needs such as video, VoIP, ERP system data, and file sharing. The switches also support popular firewall options like MikroTik RouterOS, OpenWrt, and pfSense, enabling flexible routing functions and the implementation of multiple security policies. Additionally, the QGD-1600 and QGD-1602 are compatible with the Zabbix Network Management Platform, which assists IT staff in automatically detecting connected SNMP-compliant servers/devices and monitoring network status.

With the launch of the QGD-1600 and QGD-1602 smart edge switches, QNAP continues to push the boundaries of innovation in the computing and networking industry. These switches offer a comprehensive network solution that combines advanced management features with robust cybersecurity measures, making them an ideal choice for businesses seeking enhanced LAN security and versatile software applications.

Background Information

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About Intel: Intel Corporation, a global technology leader, is for its semiconductor innovations that power computing and communication devices worldwide. As a pioneer in microprocessor technology, Intel has left an indelible mark on the evolution of computing with its processors that drive everything from PCs to data centers and beyond. With a history of advancements, Intel's relentless pursuit of innovation continues to shape the digital landscape, offering solutions that empower businesses and individuals to achieve new levels of productivity and connectivity.

  

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About QNAP: QNAP Systems, founded in Taipei in 2004 by Meiji Chang, has become a global leader in NAS solutions with a strong focus on innovation and user-friendly design. Their strategic partnerships with industry giants and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of what NAS devices can do make them a noteworthy player in the tech world.

  

Technology Explained

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M.2: M.2, also known as Next Generation Form Factor (NGFF), is a computer expansion card format that is designed to replace the outdated mSATA standard. It is thinner and longer than mSATA, which gives it a much higher data transfer rate. The M.2 format measures 22mm in width and can measure up to 110mm in length. It uses the M-key and B-key connectors to interface with PC host systems, and can connect to both SATA III and PCIe for data transfer. Due to its small size, M.2 is often used for ultra-slim laptops and netbooks, as well as in embedded SSDs for tablets and other mobile devices. It is also becoming increasingly popular in the desktop computer industry, thanks to its compactness and fast transfer speeds. This makes M.2 ideal for gaming PCs, workstations, and other demanding applications that require high levels of data throughput.

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NAS: Network Attached Storage (NAS) is a specialized storage device or server that provides centralized data storage and access over a network, usually using Ethernet connections. NAS systems are designed to offer a convenient and efficient way to store and share files among multiple users or devices within a home or office environment. Unlike traditional storage solutions, NAS devices operate independently and have their own operating systems and management interfaces. They are characterized by easy setup and configuration, making them accessible even to users with limited technical expertise. NAS devices can offer various features, including data redundancy through RAID configurations, remote access over the internet, automatic backup, media streaming, and even application hosting in some advanced models. As a versatile and user-friendly storage solution, NAS has become a popular choice for both personal and small business use.

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NVMe: Non-Volatile Memory Express (NVMe) is a newly developed technology that has been gaining traction in the computer industry. This technology is a standard interface which allows for high-speed storage and retrieval of data from solid state drives (SSDs). NVMe is designed to increase the speed of data transfers in storage systems by enabling a direct connection to PCI Express (PCIe) bus, resulting in significantly faster access times compared to traditional interface protocols such SSDs. NVMe is particularly useful for applications that require lightning-fast access to large amounts of high-value data. NVMe-based SSDs are being widely adopted in the computer industry and are being employed to power data centers, high-end workstations, and gaming machines to support lightning-fast data processing and retrieval, which unlocks possibilities for machine learning, real-time analytics, edge computing, and other cutting-edge applications. NVMe is proving to be an invaluable tool in the field of computing, offering immense

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PCIe: PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) is a high-speed serial computer expansion bus standard for connecting components such as graphics cards, sound cards, and network cards to a motherboard. It is the most widely used interface in the computer industry today, and is used in both desktop and laptop computers. PCIe is capable of providing up to 16 times the bandwidth of the older PCI standard, allowing for faster data transfer speeds and improved performance. It is also used in a variety of other applications, such as storage, networking, and communications. PCIe is an essential component of modern computing, and its applications are only expected to grow in the future.

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SSD: A Solid State Drive (SSD) is a modern data storage device that employs flash memory technology to store data electronically. Unlike traditional hard disk drives (HDDs), SSDs have no moving parts, resulting in significantly faster read and write speeds. This leads to quicker boot times, faster application loading, and smoother overall system performance. SSDs are known for their durability, shock resistance, and energy efficiency, making them ideal for laptops, ultrabooks, and other portable devices. They come in various form factors, including 2.5-inch, M.2, and PCIe cards, and are favored for their reliability, quiet operation, and reduced heat generation

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VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a technology that allows users to securely access a private network and share data remotely through public networks. It is commonly used in the computer industry to provide secure remote access to corporate networks, allowing employees to access their work files and applications from any location. VPNs also provide a secure connection for online banking, shopping, and other activities that require a secure connection. Additionally, VPNs can be used to bypass geographic restrictions and censorship, allowing users to access websites and services that may be blocked in their country.