[Rathji]

I wrote up a big response and then close my browser. Here are the coles notes:

1) Make sure you have extra ports for NAS/Media Server/Wireless Access points 16 or 24 are good numbers to aim for. Don't get way too many though, as you will likely need to replace the switch before they come into play.

2) Get Gigabit. You might not need it much now, but that need will only grow over time.

3) Passive vs fan cooling. Fans are really noisy, so unless it is in a closed room, you won't want one buzzing. There are a lot less options for passive cooled switches, especially when you consider #4 below.

4) Rack mount or not? If you have a patch panel and a place to mount your switch, then you should get a rack mountable switch. You can get by with a shelf and a desktop switch, but it is going to be a lot messier.

Bottom line is, you are not running a business and unless you fear tearing your gonads off if the switch dies mid wank, you are fine to pick something up at memory express that is consumer grade. Get the IPR Plan and you are good to go.