How does a managed switch differ from an unmanaged switch?

A managed switch is designed for networks where greater control and flexibility are required. It offers advanced configuration settings that enable network administrators to monitor, configure, and manage the switch and its traffic. This includes capabilities like VLAN configuration, Quality of Service (QoS) settings, port mirroring, and SNMP monitoring, which is essential for troubleshooting and optimizing network performance.

In contrast, unmanaged switches operate with a plug-and-play approach, lacking the advanced features and management options found in managed switches. They do not allow any configuration or monitoring capabilities, making them simpler but less versatile in complex network environments. The ability to manage traffic and set specific configurations with a managed switch is crucial for optimizing performance and enhancing security in enterprise networks.