D-Link, the cost-effective, standards-based unified networking solutions provider for small- and medium-sized businesses, today launched its DGS-1500 SmartPro switch series, providing the essential features of a managed switch, including Layer 3 functions such as static routing, at a price point accessible to small- and medium-sized businesses. The SmartPro series allows businesses, educational institutes, and security companies to invest in their networks now, without having to worry about the future impact on IT budgets.Historically, small- to medium-sized businesses upgrading their switching environments have had to make a quantum leap in terms of investment and move to a fully managed switch if they required features such as VLANs and Static Routing. In order to provide a more gradual upgrade path, D-Link has introduced the DGS-1500 SmartPro series, allowing businesses to scale their switching infrastructure incrementally at a lower cost. In addition, D-Link's SmartPro series enables centralized switch management through virtual stacking to provide businesses with a simple and cost effective means of managing networks of all sizes.

"The D-Link SmartPro switches bridge the gap between an unmanaged switch with minimal features, and a more expensive fully-managed switch that offers features beyond what small- to medium-sized businesses need," said Mark Prowten, vice president, Enterprise and Channel Sales, D-Link North America. "In line with our company's overall objectives, the SmartPro switches are designed to provide customers with a secure, reliable and affordable way to grow and manage their networks while reducing complexity and overall cost."

The SmartPro series delivers advanced switching features that will benefit businesses by providing greater flexibility in how they configure their networks. The static routing functionality built into the SmartPro series enables businesses to segregate networks, which is ideal for isolating sensitive information. Previously, this feature was only available on high-end managed switches. Its time-based PoE and port scheduling functionality included with PoE models allows businesses to power down ports or the network when not in use, further reducing costs while increasing network security.

The SmartPro series includes IPv4/v6 dual stack, IPv6 management, and meets phase two prerequisites of the IPv6 Ready Logo Program, providing a seamless transition from IPv4 to IPv6 services and helping customers to protect and future-proof network investments. The series also incorporates D-Link Green 3.0 technology, offering significant power reductions compared to similar switches on the market, helping businesses reduce costs and improve their carbon footprint.

Availability and Pricing

The DGS-1500 SmartPro Series will be available in April for $399.99 to $1139.99 MSRP through D-Link's vast network of channel partners, including value-added resellers, solution providers and distributors.