A PoE (Power over Ethernet) switch is a network switch that delivers both power and data through a single Ethernet cable to connected devices such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, wireless access points, and IoT devices. That one fact is why a wireless access point on a ceiling, an IP phone on a desk, or a camera on a wall needs no power outlet next to it: the switch port that carries its traffic also powers it. Since its introduction in 2003. PoE switches (Type 1) comply with the IEEE 802. 3af standard, which specifies the maximum power delivered over Ethernet cables.