Teltonika TSW212: In-Depth Explainer and Comprehensive Guide

The Teltonika TSW212 is a managed industrial Ethernet switch designed to deliver advanced network control, robust connectivity, and seamless integration in demanding environments. With a blend of Layer 2 and Layer 3 features, support for key industrial protocols, and a rugged build, the TSW212 stands out as a versatile solution for automation, transport, utilities, and smart city applications. This guide explores every aspect of the TSW212, from its features and technical specifications to its accessories and real-world applications.

1. Introduction to the Teltonika TSW212

The TSW212 is part of the Teltonika TSW new generation of managed switches, offering both Layer 2 (L2) and additional Layer 3 (L3) capabilities. It is engineered for industrial environments where reliability, flexibility, and advanced management are essential. With 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 2 SFP fibre ports, the TSW212 ensures high-speed, long-range connectivity in a compact, DIN rail-mountable form factor.

2. Hardware Overview

Ethernet and Fibre Ports

• 8 x RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet Ports:
  Each port supports 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds and auto MDI/MDIX crossover, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices and cabling scenarios.
• 2 x SFP Fibre Ports:
  These ports enable long-distance, high-bandwidth fibre optic connections, ideal for linking remote equipment or network segments.

Rugged Industrial Design

• Housing:
  Constructed from anodised aluminium, the TSW212 is built to withstand physical shocks, vibrations, and harsh conditions.
• Mounting:
  Integrated DIN rail bracket for easy installation in control cabinets; wall and flat mounting options are available with additional kits.
• Ingress Protection:
  Rated IP30, suitable for industrial indoor use.

Physical Interfaces and Indicators

• Status LEDs:
  1 x Power LED, 1 x Aux LED, 16 x Ethernet status LEDs, 2 x SFP status LEDs.
• Reset Button:
  For easy device reboot or factory reset.
• Grounding Screw:
  For enhanced electrical safety.

3. Advanced Network Management

Layer 2 (L2) Features

• VLAN Support:
  IEEE 802.1Q VLAN, port-based and tag-based VLANs, VLAN trunking for network segmentation.
• Loop Protection:
  Prevents network loops that can cause broadcast storms.
• STP/RSTP:
  Spanning Tree and Rapid Spanning Tree Protocols for network redundancy and loop prevention.
• Port Management:
  Enable/disable ports, link speed control, port isolation, energy-efficient Ethernet (EEE 802.3az), and port mirroring for traffic analysis.

Layer 3 (L3) Features

• Static Routing:
  Supports static IPv4 and IPv6 routing, allowing the switch to direct traffic between different subnets.
• DHCPv6 Client:
  Enables automatic IPv6 address assignment.
• Static IPv6 Addressing:
  Manual configuration for advanced network setups.

Quality of Service (QoS)

• Traffic Prioritisation:
  Port priority, DSCP priority, 802.1p priority, and TOS for ensuring critical data gets bandwidth preference.
• Scheduling Methods:
  Supports SP (Strict Priority), WFQ (Weighted Fair Queuing), and WRR (Weighted Round Robin).
• Bandwidth Control:
  Rate limiting and storm control prevent network congestion and ensure stable performance.
• Port-Based Shaping:
  Fine-tune bandwidth allocation per port.

4. Industrial Protocols and Services

• PROFINET (Class B):
  Enables integration with industrial automation systems for real-time data processing and monitoring.
• EtherNet/IP:
  Widely used in manufacturing for device interoperability.
• MRP (Media Redundancy Protocol):
  Provides both client and manager roles for network redundancy.
• SNMP v2/v3:
  For network monitoring and management.
• LLDP (Link Layer Discovery Protocol):
  Facilitates device discovery and topology mapping.

5. Diagnostics and Monitoring

• Diagnostic Tools:
  Built-in cable diagnostic, ping, traceroute, and nslookup for troubleshooting and network analysis.
• Status LEDs:
  Visual feedback for port status, link speed, and activity.

6. Firmware, Configuration, and Management

• TSWOS (Teltonika Switch OS):
  An OpenWrt-based operating system designed for intuitive configuration and infinite customisation.
• Web UI:
  User-friendly web interface for configuration, firmware updates, and status monitoring.
• Remote Management System (RMS):
  Teltonika’s cloud-based platform for remote monitoring, firmware updates, and bulk configuration.
• FOTA:
  Firmware Over-The-Air updates for easy maintenance.
• Configuration Profiles and Backup:
  Save, restore, and manage multiple configuration sets.

7. Security Features

• Authentication:
  Supports PAM (pre-shared key), Radius, and TACACS+ for secure access control.
• IP & Login Attempt Blocking:
  Protects against brute-force attacks and unauthorised access.
• 802.1x Port-Based Network Access Control:
  Ensures only authorised devices can connect.
• Port Isolation:
  Prevents unauthorised communication between devices on different ports.

8. System Performance and Reliability

• Non-Blocking Bandwidth:
  20 Gbps switching capacity ensures full wire-speed performance on all ports.
• Forwarding Rate:
  14.88 Mpps (million packets per second).
• Packet Buffer:
  512 KB for smooth data handling.
• MAC Address Table:
  Supports up to 8,000 entries for large device networks.
• Jumbo Frame Support:
  Up to 10,000 bytes for efficient large data transfers.
• Operating Temperature:
  -40°C to 75°C, suitable for extreme industrial environments.
• Power Consumption:
  Idle: <2.5 W, Max: 6 W.
• Input Voltage:
  7–57 VDC via 2-pin industrial DC socket.

9. Comprehensive Specification Table

10. Box Contents

When you purchase the Teltonika TSW212, the following items are included:

• Teltonika TSW212 managed switch
• Integrated DIN rail bracket (pre-installed)
• Quick Start Guide

11. Available Teltonika Accessories 

To ensure seamless deployment and integration, Teltonika offers a range of compatible accessories. For UK customers, the most commonly used accessories include:

Power Supplies

• PR3PRUK6 – 9W UK Power Supply (suitable for TSW212)
• PR320UKA – 250W UK Power Supply (for high-power or multiple device installations)
• PR317UKA – 62W UK Power Supply (for managed switches and larger setups)

Mounting Kits

• PR5MEC12 – Surface mounting kit
• PR5MEC11 – Plastic DIN rail kit (if replacement needed)
• PR5MEC00 – Metal DIN rail kit (if replacement needed)
• PR5MEC25 – Rear panel with DIN rail holder (for TSW200/TSW210/TSW212)

SFP Modules

• SFP-1.25G-20KM – 1.25Gbps, 20km BiDi SFP transceiver
• SFP-1.25G-1.4KM – 1.25Gbps, 1.4km SFP transceiver
• SFP-1.25G-550M – 1.25Gbps, 550m SFP transceiver

Cables and Adapters

• PR2PD01B – 2-pin to barrel socket adapter (for flexible power options)
• Ethernet Patch Cables – Cat5e/Cat6, various lengths

12. Typical Applications for the TSW212

The robust design and advanced feature set of the Teltonika TSW212 make it ideal for a wide variety of industrial and commercial applications:

Industrial Automation

• Integration with PLCs, HMIs, and industrial controllers
• Real-time data processing with PROFINET and EtherNet/IP
• Segmentation of production lines with VLANs and QoS

Transport and Traffic Management

• Connecting roadside equipment, traffic cameras, and sensors
• Fibre uplinks for long-distance connectivity between control cabinets
• Redundant networking with MRP and STP/RSTP

Utilities and Energy

• Substation automation and remote monitoring
• Secure, reliable networking in harsh electrical environments
• Integration with SCADA systems

Smart Cities

• Aggregating data from CCTV, public Wi-Fi, and IoT sensors
• High-speed fibre links between city infrastructure nodes
• Remote management and monitoring via RMS

Building Automation

• Linking BMS controllers, HVAC systems, and security devices
• VLANs for secure network segmentation
• DIN rail mounting in control panels

CCTV and Security

• Aggregating IP cameras with high-bandwidth Gigabit ports
• Secure, isolated networks for surveillance
• Long-range fibre connections for large sites

13. Why Choose the Teltonika TSW212?

• Advanced Management: Full L2/L3 capabilities, VLAN, QoS, and industrial protocol support.
• Rugged Reliability: Aluminium housing, wide temperature range, and industrial-grade components.
• Flexible Deployment: DIN rail, wall, or flat mounting; wide power input range.
• Remote Management: Seamless integration with Teltonika RMS for remote monitoring and updates.
• Future-Proof: SFP fibre ports, jumbo frame support, and a robust OS ensure longevity and scalability.

14. Conclusion

The Teltonika TSW212 sets a new standard for industrial managed switches, combining robust hardware, advanced features, and flexible management in a compact package. Whether you’re building a smart factory, connecting critical infrastructure, or deploying a secure city-wide network, the TSW212 delivers the performance, reliability, and control required for modern industrial networking.

For UK customers, a wide range of accessories and power supply options ensures easy integration into any environment. With its comprehensive feature set and Teltonika’s reputation for quality, the TSW212 is a future-proof choice for any demanding network scenario.

If you require further guidance on selecting accessories, configuring your switch, or integrating the TSW212 into your project, contact MILLBECK, an authorised Teltonika Diamond distributor.