n Proper Assessment: It is imperative to have a proper assessment of the LAN requirements of an organization. One important aspect to be kept in mind is the sort of applications that are normally used, as the LAN capacity/speed would be dependent on that.

n LAN Layer/level: One should keep in mind the layer/level of the LAN where the switch is going to be deployed. A chassis switch would be better deployed in the head office, while a stackable switch would be better in the branch offices.

n Upgradation Option: Multilayer switches are upgradable, but not beyond layer 3. In case of organizations using multimedia applications, it is advisable to go for layer 4-7 switches.

n Enhancing Performance: A switch will improve performance for any file servers or workstations connected directly to it. Small network can use a switch instead of a hub to give workstations maximum speed. If a network is large, it should have at least one switch in every high-traffic workgroup. As a general rule, try to get every file server, critical workstations, and print server connected directly to a switch.

n Running High-speed Applications: When a network will be using high-speed applications like multimedia or video generally speaking, every workstation and file server that will be using multimedia or video should be connected to a switch to avoid transmission delays. Anywhere a 10/100 Fast Ethernet hub is required small workgroups and large network alike will benefit more from using a 10/100 switch to maximize performance over a mere 10/100 hub alone.

n Full Duplex: 16 or 24-ports switches should run at 10/100 full duplex and have an auto sensing capability

n Seamless Connection: Should be perfect for running 10BaseT, 100BaseTX and 100BaseFX hardware seamlessly

n Data Flow Control: Data flow control should be able to filter out faulty data packets

n Data Packet Switching: Must be capable of advanced store-and-forward data packet switching