Power over Ethernet switch (or PoE switch) is an access layer technology that combines data signals and electrical power into a single Ethernet cable connection, delivering both to enable a powered device (PD). A PoE switch provides power and. A PoE switch 1 is a network switch that delivers both power and data to devices through standard Ethernet cables, simplifying installations and reducing the need for separate power supplies. This eliminates the need for separate power adapters, reducing cable clutter and. On this page you will learn what differentiates a PoE enabled switch from a regular LAN switch, when you should use a PoE switch versus a PoE injector and, what exactly is PoE (Power over Ethernet) technology.