Power over Ethernet (POE) is a technology that lets network cables carry electrical power.

For example, a digital security camera normally requires two connections to be made when it is installed:

A network connection, in order to be able to communicate with video recording and display equipment

A power connection, to deliver the electrical power the camera needs to operate

However, if the camera is POE-enabled, only the network connection needs to be made, as it will receive its electrical power from this cable as well.

Specifying Power over Ethernet brings many advantages to an installation:

Time and cost savings – by reducing the time and expense of having electrical power cabling installed.  Network cables do not require a qualified electrician to fit them, and can be located anywhere.

Flexibility – without being tethered to an electrical outlet, devices such as IP cameras and wireless access points can be located wherever they are needed most, and repositioned easily if required.

Safety – POE delivery is intelligent, and designed to protect network equipment from overload, underpowering, or incorrect installation.

Reliability – POE power comes from a central and universally compatible source, rather than a collection of distributed wall adapters.  It can be backed-up by an uninterruptible power supply, or controlled to easily disable or reset devices.

Scalability – having power available on the network means that installation and distribution of network connections is simple and effective.

POE has many applications, but the three key areas are:

VoIP phones – the original POE application.  Using POE means phones have a single connection to a wall socket, and can be remotely powered down, just like with the older analog systems.

IP cameras – POE is now ubiquitous on networked surveillance cameras, where it enables fast deployment and easy repositioning.

Wireless – Wifi and Bluetooth APs and RFID readers are commonly PoE-compatible, to allow remote location away from AC outlets, and relocation following site surveys.

Nanosoft POE is best solution for power transmitting over LAN.