Power over Ethernet (POE) is a networking feature that lets network cables carry electrical power over an existing data connection with a single Cat5e/Cat6 Ethernet cable.

PoE technology relies on the IEEE 802.3af and 802.3at standards, which are set by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and govern how networking equipment should operate in order to promote interoperability between devices.
PoE-capable devices can be power sourcing equipment (PSE), powered devices (PDs), or sometimes both. The device that transmits power is a PSE, while the device that is powered is a PD. Most PSEs are either network switches or PoE injectors intended for use with non-PoE switches.

Common examples of PDs include VoIP phones, wireless access points, and IP cameras.

My device needs PoE... what do I do ?

Network Services utilizes switches that provide Power Over Ethernet (PoE.) for Voice over IP (VoIP) phones and wireless Access Points (APs) The switches are plugged into appropriately sized UPSs for the load that is required for their operation to prevent switch and equipment reloads during a power outage.  The UPSs provide finite power for a finite period of time.  Additional load from non-Network Services equipment is not allowed.  Non-Network equipment will be unplugged and disabled at the switch and in the network room/closet.  Network Services will evaluate needs for PoE and recommend solutions on a case by case basis at the requestor’s expense. To request an evaluation please email network.services@uvm.edu