It's easy to get stuck thinking about all the cool devices that modern technology enables, but if we only talked about the flashy stuff, we'd be missing out on a lot. Even with awesome tech like Power over Ethernet (PoE), most compatible devices are fairly dull. Sure, it makes it easy to wire up your home network because you don't have to string power and data cables around, or find nearby sockets, but the devices on the other end of PoE++ setups are boring, mostly.

There are several versions of PoE compatibility nowadays, ranging from low-power 13W products that have used it since before it was a standard, to larger appliances like TVs, digital signage, and even mini desktops drawing up to 200W across the cable. But the larger devices are interesting, so let's get back to those dull as ditch water devices that make the smart home so good.

7 IP security cameras

Make sure your security system has stable networking and power delivery

Powering security cameras is always a pain, either because you need to convert AC to DC, or hang up solar panels, and then worry about connectivity. I've used my share of Wi-Fi security cameras, and they're nowhere near as good as their wired compatriots, and with the right Frigate settings, you've got a security system that you set up yourself, doesn't require a subscription, and has motion detection.

With a managed switch that supports 30W on its PoE ports, you can even upgrade to PTZ cameras, and get control-by-wire movement for your security cameras, to get the perfect angle on those trespassers. And if you've got internal PoE cameras, you can easily turn them into your webcam for impromptu video meetings, just in case you can't find your USB one or your laptop's camera stops working.

6 Wireless access points (APs)

Make building your wireless network a little bit easier

Wireless access points are essential to having a blanket of comforting Wi-Fi signal in every corner of your home, but they're not exactly exciting. What's even less exciting is having to pull cables through drywall, then find (or relocate) nearby wall sockets to power the wireless broadcasters that connect us all. And that's if you live in North America, where our paper-thin walls are easy to renovate. Trying to relocate APs when your wall is brick or plaster is another thing altogether, and you'll be even more glad that one length of CAT6a can handle the data and power needs of that wireless broadcaster.

We're getting close to the point where every floor of our homes needs an AP for the best signal on the fastest bands, and the fewer cables to pull, the better. Plus you don't have to call out the electricians, or worry about losing or damaging the power adapter, or worry about the power cable interfering with the signal on the copper data cable that's going to the same spot on the AP.

5 VoIP phones

One fewer wire to manage for your IT department

When PoE first came out, VoIP phones, predominantly used in the office, were the only devices that supported it. That's also the best place for it to get widespread adoption, because every office worker needs Ethernet running to their desk, VoIP goes over the same cable, and adding PoE makes it even easier from an operational viewpoint. It frees up AC sockets for the desktop, monitor, and accessories, while providing continuous service to the handset.

If you've added home phone service to your cable or fiber internet package, that will also be VoIP. However, the wiring inside your home will likely be converted to analog, and it's unlikely that any home users will have (or want to administer) a VoIP network in their home.

4 LED lighting

Running PoE for LED lighting gives you power and control in one

One of the awesome things about LED lighting taking over from power-hungry forms of illumination is that we no longer need to pull 120 or 240V wiring through our walls and ceilings to get lighting where we need it. PoE's lower voltage means it doesn't need an electrician to run the cables or rearrange where the lights are; lighting can be quickly reassigned to new switches if your interior layout needs to change, and it's far cheaper to operate.

Plus, it comes with inbuilt smart features so you can automate when the lights come on or turn off, and connect them to occupancy sensors etc so that they're not on when not needed. Professional photographers love PoE lighting too, as it can be easily linked together for tone-perfect control over every light being used. What does suck somewhat is that there are a half dozen or so lighting control standards for PoE, and none of them are likely to work together. But that's balanced out by less heat generation as you don't have AC to DC converters on every light fitting, warming up the place.

3 Network switches

Smaller switches can pass through PoE to the end devices

While you can add PoE to an existing network with PoE injectors, each needs a power socket and takes up a lot of space very quickly. PoE network switches are the way to go, but did you know that PoE can also power some switches, so you can add more ports in another room without running more power lines? Active PoE passthrough switches are a lifesaver when you don't want to relocate power sockets, and they make it easier to include more wired devices in your home's far-flung rooms.

2 Video doorbells

When was the last time you got a good video feed from a Wi-Fi doorbell?

Just like IP cameras, video doorbells, and door access systems can also be powered by PoE, although the devices that support it are on the premium side of things. It's worth it for the best video quality and guaranteed latency-free responses to motion sensors, which even the best Wi-Fi video doorbells struggle with. Plus, you can wire it back to a NVR like Frigate, and then you've got local storage for your video footage when you need it.

1 SBCs

For when you want to run edge computing projects

Okay, maybe this one isn't that boring, but it depends on what project you will set up on your SBC. But whatever it is, from AI vision recognition to a weather station or checking on the moisture levels of your potted plants, you can power that tiny microcomputer with PoE and not have to run more cables, or worry about high voltage lines outside in the elements. Or maybe you've turned it into a media streaming device, or a thin client for the garage so you don't get your laptop dirty when working on things. Whatever the use case, PoE makes things easier, once you've added the correct HAT for your SBC to split off the power.

Power over Ethernet makes wiring jobs easy

I love PoE, and use it for everything that I can, but while the technology is cool, the devices on the end of the cable are often not. Maybe that will change now that it's possible to pass 200W over PoE, enough for powerful laptops, mini PCs or consoles, and I hope so. It's also used for Audio over IP installations, but those are pretty cool because you can play your favorite tunes on the networked speakers.