ZyXEL Communications GS1100 Series User manual

User’s Guide
GS1100 Series
Unmanaged Gigabit Ethernet Switch
Copyright © 2020 Zyxel Communications Corporation
Version 1.00 Edition 6, 08/2020

GS1100 Series User’s Guide
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IMPORTANT!
READ CAREFULLY BEFORE USE.
KEEP THIS GUIDE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
Screenshots and graphics in this book may differ slightly from your product due to differences in your
product firmware or your computer operating system. Every effort has been made to ensure that the
information in this manual is accurate.
•MoreInformation
Go to https://businessforum.zyxel.com for product discussions.
Go to support.zyxel.com to find other information on the Switch.

Document Conventions
GS1100 Series User’s Guide
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Document Conventions
Warnings and Notes
These are how warnings and notes are shown in this guide.
Warnings tell you about things that could harm you or your device.
Note: Notes tell you other important information (for example, other things you may need to
configure or helpful tips) or recommendations.
Syntax Conventions
• All models may be referred to as the “Switch” in this guide.
• Product labels, screen names, field labels and field choices are all in bold font.
Icons Used in Figures
Figures in this user guide may use the following generic icons. The Switch icon is not an exact
representation of your device.
Switch Generic Router Wireless Router / Access Point
Generic Switch Smart TV Desktop
Laptop IP Camera Printer
Server

Contents Overview
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Contents Overview
User’s Guide ........................................................................................................................................7
Getting to Know Your Switch ................................................................................................................ 8
Hardware Installation and Connection ............................................................................................. 12
Hardware Panels .................................................................................................................................. 19
Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................................... 28

Table of Contents
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Table of Contents
Part I: User’s Guide............................................................................................7
Chapter 1
Getting to Know Your Switch ..............................................................................................................8
1.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................................... 8
1.2 Features ............................................................................................................................................. 9
1.3 Example Applications ...................................................................................................................... 9
1.3.1 PoE Example Application ....................................................................................................... 9
1.3.2 Backbone Example Application ......................................................................................... 10
1.3.3 Bridging or Fiber Uplink Example Application .................................................................... 10
Chapter 2
Hardware Installation and Connection ...........................................................................................12
2.1 Installation Scenarios ...................................................................................................................... 12
2.1.1 Before Using the Switch ........................................................................................................ 12
2.2 Hardware Installation ..................................................................................................................... 12
2.3 Desktop Installation Procedure ..................................................................................................... 13
2.4 Wall Mounting ................................................................................................................................. 14
2.4.1 Installation Requirements ..................................................................................................... 14
2.5 Rack Mounting ................................................................................................................................ 16
2.5.1 Installation Requirements ..................................................................................................... 16
2.5.2 Precautions ............................................................................................................................ 17
2.5.3 Attaching the Mounting Brackets to the Switch ............................................................... 17
2.5.4 Mounting the Switch on a Rack .......................................................................................... 17
Chapter 3
Hardware Panels................................................................................................................................19
3.1 Front Panel ...................................................................................................................................... 19
3.1.1 RJ-45 Auto-negotiating Ports ............................................................................................... 20
3.1.2 IEEE 802.3az EEE ..................................................................................................................... 20
3.1.3 Gigabit Ethernet Ports ........................................................................................................... 20
3.1.4 PoE (GS1100-10HP) ................................................................................................................ 21
3.1.5 SFP Slots (GS1100-24 and GS1100-10HP) ............................................................................. 21
3.2 Rear Panel ....................................................................................................................................... 23
3.2.1 Grounding (GS1100-10HP) ................................................................................................... 24
3.2.2 Power Connection ................................................................................................................ 26
3.2.3 LEDs ......................................................................................................................................... 26

Table of Contents
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Chapter 4
Troubleshooting..................................................................................................................................28
4.1 Power, Hardware Connections, and LEDs ................................................................................... 28
4.2 Improper Network Cabling and Topology .................................................................................. 29
Appendix A Customer Support ....................................................................................................... 31
Appendix B Legal Information......................................................................................................... 37
Index...................................................................................................................................................47

7
PART I
User’s Guide

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CHAPTER 1
Getting to Know Your Switch
1.1 Introduction
The GS1100 Series consists of the following models:
• GS1100-10HP
• GS1100-16
• GS1100-24E
• GS1100-24
The Switch is a 10/100/1000 Mbps multi-port switch that can be used to build high-performance
switched workgroup networks. The Switch is a store-and-forward device that offers low latency for high-
speed networking. The Switch is fanless and designed for workgroups, departments or backbone
computing environments for small businesses.
All models are referred to as the “Switch” in this guide.
The following table describes the hardware features of the Switch by model.
The GS1100-10HP has eight GbE PoE ports that can supply power to the connected PoE powered
devices.
The GS1100-24 and GS1100-10HP have two SFP slots for uplink connection. Use SFP transceivers in these
slots for 100Mbps or 1Gbps connections to backbone Ethernet switches.
The Switch has a built-in algorithm that automatically assigns priority to received packets. It can operate
in low power idle mode in compliance with IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE).
Table 1 GS1100 Series Comparison Table
PORT/SWITCH DETAILS GS1100-10HP GS1100-16 GS1100-24E GS1100-24
10/100/1000Base-T Ethernet ports 8 162424
100/1000Base-X SFP slots 2 2
802.3at PoE ports 8
One physical IEEE 802.3az ON/OFF button 1
One power ON/OFF switch 1
Desktop Device Yes Yes Yes
Wall-mountable Yes Yes Yes
Rack-mountable Yes Yes Yes

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1.2 Features
The following are the essential features of the Switch.
• Conforms to IEEE 802.3, 802.3u, 802.3ab and 802.3x standards.
• Auto-negotiating 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) RJ-45 ports.
• Auto-sensing crossover for all 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) RJ-45 ports.
• Supports N-Way protocol for speed (10/100/1000 Mbps) and duplex mode (Half/Full) auto-detection.
• Supports store-and-forward switching.
• Supports automatic address learning.
• Supports IEEE 802.3az EEE
• Supports IEEE 802.3af and IEEE 802.3at PoE standards (GS1100-10HP)
• Full wire speed forwarding rate.
• Supports 802.1p CoS.
• Embedded 8K MAC address table providing 8000 MAC addresses entries.
1.3 Example Applications
This section shows a few examples of using the Switch in various network environments. Note that the
Switch in the figure is just an example Switch and not your actual Switch.
1.3.1 PoE Example Application
The following example figure shows a Switch supplying PoE (Power over Ethernet) to Powered Devices
(PDs) such as an IP camera, a wireless router, an IP telephone and a general outdoor router that are not
within reach of a power outlet.
Figure 1 Powered Device Example
The PoE function is available for the GS1100-10HP.
Ports 1 to 8 on the GS1100-10HP support both the IEEE 802.3af Power over Ethernet and IEEE 802.3at High
Power over Ethernet standards. The ports supply power of up to 30W per Ethernet port and up to the
total PoE power budget per Switch.

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The Switch is Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE) because it provides a source of power via its Ethernet
ports. A powered device (PD) is a device such as an access point or an IP phone, that supports PoE
(Power over Ethernet) so that it can receive power from another device through a 10/100/1000 Mbps
Ethernet port.
In the figure above, the IP camera and IP phone get their power directly from the Switch. Aside from
minimizing the need for cables and wires, PoE removes the hassle of trying to find a nearby electric
outlet to power up devices.
1.3.2 Backbone Example Application
The Switch is an ideal solution for small networks where rapid growth can be expected in the near future.
The Switch can be used standalone for a group of heavy traffic users. You can connect computers and
servers directly to the Switch’s port or connect other switches to the Switch.
In this example, all computers can share high-speed applications on the server. To expand the network,
simply add more networking devices such as switches, routers, computers, print servers, and so on.
Figure 2 Backbone Application
1.3.3 Bridging or Fiber Uplink Example Application
In this example, the Switch connects different company departments (RD and Sales) to the corporate
backbone. It can alleviate bandwidth contention and eliminate server and network bottlenecks. All
users that need high bandwidth can connect to high-speed department servers via the Switch. You can
provide a super-fast uplink connection by using a Gigabit Ethernet or SFP port on the Switch.

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Figure 3 Bridging Example Application

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CHAPTER 2
Hardware Installation and
Connection
2.1 Installation Scenarios
This chapter shows you how to install and connect the Switch.
The Switch can be:
• Placed on a desktop.
• Wall-mounted on a wall.
• Rack-mounted on a standard EIA rack.
See Table 1 on page 8 for the comparison table of the hardware installation methods for each model.
2.1.1 Before Using the Switch
Please observe the following before using the Switch:
• It is recommended to ask an authorized technician to attach the Switch on a desk or to the rack or
wall. Use the proper screws to prevent damage to the Switch. See the Installation Requirements
sections in this chapter to know the types of screws and screw drivers for each mounting method.
• Make sure there is at least 2 cm of clearance on the top and bottom of the Switch, and at least 5 cm
of clearance on all four sides of the Switch. This allows air circulation for cooling.
• Do NOT block the ventilation holes nor store cables or power cords on the Switch. Allow clearance for
the ventilation holes to prevent your Switch from overheating. This is especially crucial when your
Switch does not have fans. Overheating could affect the performance of your Switch, or even
damage it.
• The surface of the Switch could be hot when it is functioning. Do NOT put your hands on it. You may
get burned. This could happen especially when you are using a fanless Switch.
• The Switches with fans are not suitable for use in locations where children are likely to be present.
To start using the Switch, simply connect the power cables and turn it on.
2.2 Hardware Installation
See the following table for a comparison of the hardware installation methods of each GS1100 model:

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Table 2 GS1100 Series Installation Comparison Table
For GS1100-10HP, GS1100-16 and GS110-24E, you can place the Switch directly on top of your desk or
have it wall-mounted. For GS1100-16, GS1100-24E and GS110-24, the size is suitable for rack-mounting
and you can refer to Section 2.5 on page 16 for instruction. Take note of the following:
• The Switch should be placed on a desk that has a level surface and that is able to support the weight
of the Switch.
To start using it, simply connect the power cables and turn on the Switch.
2.3 Desktop Installation Procedure
1Make sure the Switch is clean and dry.
2Remove the adhesive backing from the rubber feet.
3Attach the rubber feet to each corner on the bottom of the Switch. These rubber feet help protect the
Switch from shock or vibration and ensure space between devices when stacking.
Figure 4 Attaching Rubber Feet
4Set the Switch on a smooth, level surface strong enough to support the weight of the Switch and the
connected cables. Make sure there is a power outlet nearby.
Cautions:
• Avoid stacking fanless Switches to prevent overheating.
• Ensure enough clearance around the Switch to allow air circulation for cooling.
• Do NOT remove the rubber feet as it provides space for air circulation.
MODEL FEATURE GS1100-10HP GS1100-16 GS1100-24E GS1100-24
Desktop Device
Wall-mountable
Rack-mountable

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2.4 Wall Mounting
The Switch can be mounted on a wall (see Table 1 on page 8). You may need screw anchors if
mounting on a concrete or brick wall.
Do the following to attach your Switch to a wall.
See Table 3 on page 14 for how far apart to place the screws.
2.4.1 Installation Requirements
• Distance above the floor: At least 1.8 m (5.9 feet)
• Two M4 screws and a #2 Philips screwdriver
• Two screw anchors (optional)
Figure 5 GS1100-10HP screw specs
Table 3 Distance between the centers of the holes for wall mounting
MODEL DISTANCE
GS1100-10HP 176mm
GS1100-16 148 mm
GS1100-24E 120 mm

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Figure 6 GS1100-16/GS1100-24E screw specs
1Select a position free of obstructions on a wall strong enough to hold the weight of the Switch.
2Mark two holes on the wall at the appropriate distance apart for the screws.
WARNING! Be careful to avoid damaging pipes or cables located inside
the wall when drilling holes for the screws.
3If using screw anchors, drill two holes for the screw anchors into the wall. Push the anchors into the full
depth of the holes, then insert the screws into the anchors. Do NOT insert the screws all the way in –
leave a small gap of about 0.5 cm.
If not using screw anchors, use a screwdriver to insert the screws into the wall. Do NOT insert the screws
all the way in – leave a gap of about 0.5 cm.
4Make sure the screws are fastened well enough to hold the weight of the Switch with the connection
cables.
5Align the holes on the back of the Switch with the screws on the wall. Hang the Switch on the screws.
Note: Make sure there is enough clearance between the wall and the Switch to allow
ventilation.

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WARNING! The Switch should be wall-mounted horizontally, and make sure
the front panel is facing down. The Switch's side panels with ventilation slots
should not be facing up or down as this position is less safe.
2.5 Rack Mounting
The Switch can be mounted on an EIA standard size, 19-inch rack or in a wiring closet with other
equipment (see Table 1 on page 8). Follow the steps below to mount your Switch on a standard EIA rack
using a rack-mounting kit.
Note: Make sure there is enough clearance between each equipment on the rack for air
circulation.
2.5.1 Installation Requirements
• Two mounting brackets.

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• Eight M3 flat head screws and a #2 Philips screwdriver.
• Four M5 flat head screws and a #2 Philips screwdriver.
2.5.2 Precautions
• Make sure the rack will safely support the combined weight of all the equipment it contains. The
maximum weight a bracket can hold is 21.5 kg.
• Make sure the position of the Switch does not make the rack unstable or top-heavy. Take all
necessary precautions to anchor the rack securely before installing the unit.
2.5.3 Attaching the Mounting Brackets to the Switch
1Position a mounting bracket on one side of the Switch, lining up the four screw holes on the bracket with
the screw holes on the side of the Switch.
Figure 7 Attaching the Mounting Brackets (GS1100-16 and GS1100-24E)
Figure 8 Attaching the Mounting Brackets (GS1100-24)
2Using a #2 Philips screwdriver, install the M3 flat head screws through the mounting bracket holes into
the Switch.
3Repeat steps 1and 2to install the second mounting bracket on the other side of the Switch.
4You may now mount the Switch on a rack. Proceed to the next section.
2.5.4 Mounting the Switch on a Rack
1Position a mounting bracket (that is already attached to the Switch) on one side of the rack, lining up
the two screw holes on the bracket with the screw holes on the side of the rack.

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Figure 9 Mounting the Switch on a Rack (GS1100-16 and GS1100-24E)
Figure 10 Mounting the Switch on a Rack (GS1100-24)
2Using a #2 Philips screwdriver, install the M5 flat head screws through the mounting bracket holes into
the rack.
Note: Make sure you tighten all the four screws to prevent the Switch from getting slanted.
3Repeat steps 1and 2to attach the second mounting bracket on the other side of the rack.

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CHAPTER 3
Hardware Panels
This chapter describes the front panel and rear panel of the Switch and shows you how to make the
hardware connections.
3.1 Front Panel
You can use either crossover or straight-through cables for all the ports.
The front panel of the Switch includes the auto-negotiating 10 Base-T/100 Base-TX/1000 Base-T RJ-45
ports and the LEDs.
The GS1100-24 and GS1100-10HP have two SFP slots. Refer to Section 3.1.5 on page 21 for more
information.
The following figures show the front panels of the Switch.
Figure 11 Front Panel
GS1100-16
GS1100-24
GS1100-24E
GS1100-10HP

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You can use unshielded twisted pair (UTP) or shielded twisted-pair (STP) Ethernet cables for RJ-45 ports.
The following table describes the types of network cable used for the different connection speeds.
3.1.1 RJ-45 Auto-negotiating Ports
The 10 Base-T/100 Base-TX/1000 Base-T RJ-45 ports are auto-negotiating and auto-crossover.
An auto-negotiating port can detect and adjust to the optimum Ethernet speed (10/100/1000 Mpbs)
and duplex mode (full duplex or half duplex) of the connected device.
An auto-crossover (auto-MDI/MDI-X) port automatically works with a straight-through or crossover
Ethernet cable.
3.1.2 IEEE 802.3az EEE
The Switch supports the IEEE 802.3az EEE (Energy Efficient Ethernet) standard to help reduce power
consumption. This allows the Switch to go into power saving mode and switch off part of receive and
transmit circuitry when it is not transmitting or receiving data through an Ethernet connection.
An EEE-enabled device initiates Low Power Idle (LPI) signals to negotiate and wake up the remote
device when there is data to be transmitted. To use EEE, both devices should be EEE compliant.
EEE is configured on a per-system basis in the Switch. If one of the networking devices that connect to
the Switch doesn't support EEE, EEE may not work in the Switch to save power.
Press the IEEE 802.3az EEE ON/OFF button on the GS1100-10HP to turn on the EEE feature. Disable it if you
don't want the network performance to be impacted due to the latency from the additional time
required for the sleep and wake transition or if the remote side doesn't support it.
Note: Only the GS1100-10HP has the IEEE 802.3az EEE button. For the GS1100-16/24E/24, the
IEEE 802.3az EEE feature is enabled by default.
3.1.3 Gigabit Ethernet Ports
The Switch has 1000Base-T auto-negotiating, auto-crossover Ethernet ports. In 10/100/1000 Mbps
Gigabit, the speed can be 10 Mbps, 100 Mbps or 1000 Mbps and the duplex mode can be half duplex
or full duplex.
An auto-negotiating port can detect and adjust to the optimum Ethernet speed (10/100/1000 Mbps)
and duplex mode (full duplex) of the connected device.
An auto-crossover (auto-MDI/MDI-X) port automatically works with a straight-through or crossover
Ethernet cable.
Table 4 Network Cable Types
SPEED NETWORK CABLE TYPE
10 Mbps Category 3, 4 or 5 UTP/STP
100 Mbps Category 5 UTP/STP
1000 Mbps Category 5e, 6 UTP/STP