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Modern campus and branch networks demand Gigabit speeds, Layer 3 routing, and PoE support at a predictable and manageable cost. The Huawei S5720 series addresses these needs by offering four distinct sub-series—LI, SI, EI, and HI—built on the reliable VRP operating system.
Designed for environments ranging from small offices to institutional campus cores, they boast stacking, PoE, embedded security, and versatile uplink options.
This guide will explore each sub-series in depth, compare their specs, advise on deployment scenarios, and answer frequently asked questions to support informed decision-making for network professionals.
S5720 Series Switches Overview
The S5720 line delivers flexible solutions for different deployment roles:
- LI (Lite) – Basic gigabit access with optional PoE/PoE++; ideal for entry-level needs.
- SI (Standard) – Full Layer 3, dual power supplies, 10 GE uplinks, and enhanced O&M features like iStack and MACsec.
- EI (Enhanced) – Higher forwarding and all-GE access (up to 56 ports), full routing protocols (OSPF, BGP, MPLS), and SVF fabric support.
- HI (High‑end) – Programmable, SDN-ready switches with high PoE+ budgets and large buffer capacity for core or dense PoE deployments.
All sub-series share 336–598 Gbps switching capacities, iStack/SVF support, robust Layer 2/3 protocols, and security features, with distinctions in performance, port density, and PoE capabilities.
Performance and Port Comparison
The following table summarizes key performance and structural differences:
| Sub-series | Switching Capacity | Forwarding Rate | Access Ports | Uplinks | PoE Support |
| LI | 336 Gbps | 27–144 Mpps | 8–48 GE ± combo | 4 GE or 4 10 GE | Optional PoE/PoE+/PoE++ (370–740 W) |
| SI | 336 Gbps | 42–132 Mpps | 24–52 GE ± combo | 4 GE or 4 10 GE SFP+ | PoE+ built-in (370–740 W) |
| EI | 598 Gbps | 48–162 Mpps | 32–56 GE | 4 10 GE SFP+ + expansion slots | Module-based or optional PoE |
| HI | 598 Gbps | 168–192 Mpps | 24–48 GE ± combo SFP | 4 10 GE + slots | High PoE+ support (600–1150 W) |
Note on forwarding rates: LI tops at ~144 Mpps with full port models, while HI achieves near-wire‑speed at 192 Mpps .
Sub-series Details
LI – Entry-level Access
Best suited for small offices or cost-sensitive deployments:
- 8–48 GE ports with combos and optional PoE support.
- Optional PoE++ models (e.g., 740 W power budget).
- Fanless versions available; green design and comprehensive Layer 2 features (STP, VLAN, SEP, ERPS).
- Max forwarding ~144 Mpps; stackable up to 9 units via iStack.
SI – Standard Gigabit Layer 3
Ideal for mid-sized campuses:
- 24–52 GE ports, 4 10 GE SFP+ uplinks.
- Dual hot-swappable AC/DC power; PoE+ up to 740 W.
- Advanced routing (OSPF, BGP, IS-IS), IPv6 support, Ring protection protocols (SEP, ERPS).
- Supports SVF, MACsec, zero-touch provisioning, and QoS for voice/video.
- Forwarding up to 132 Mpps; ideal for aggregation/access interplay.
EI – Enhanced Fabric Support
Engineered for high-density campus distribution:
- 32–56 GE ports, always full Gigabit.
- Strong 162 Mpps forwarding at 598 Gbps backplane.
- Expanded routing (BGP, MPLS), full VLAN, multicast (PIM), and virtual fabric (SVF) support .
- Redundancy via iStack; built-in O&M for plug-and-play deployments; robust link recovery.
HI – High-End Core/PoE
Best for high-load deployments:
- Up to 48 GE + 4 10 GE ports and expansion capacity.
- High PoE+ budgets (600–1150 W); full VRP and SDN programmability.
- Rich buffer, high forwarding, and ideal for core or high-density AP deployments.
- Supports virtual fabric, VPN, tunnels, and enhanced security control.
Deployment Scenarios
| Scenario | Recommended Series | Why |
| Small office or remote branch | LI | Entry-level port count, optional PoE, green/fanless options |
| Branch/SIze network core & edge | SI | Layer 3 routing, redundant PSUs, strong O&M |
| Campus aggregation or AP distribution | EI | Full GE access, high forwarding, SVF |
| Campus core / dense PoE environments | HI | High capacity, SDN-ready, high PoE budgets |
Tips: Use SVF or iStack for simplified network fabric; allocate 20–30% PoE budget headroom for camera and AP growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What differentiates the LI, SI, EI, HI sub-series?
LI is entry-level with optional PoE. SI adds Layer 3, 10 GE uplinks, MACsec. EI boosts to fully GE with SVF and enhanced routing. HI includes SDN programmability and largest PoE+ budgets. -
Can S5720 provide PoE?
Yes—LI and SI include PoE/PoE+ (370–740 W), EI uses power modules, HI supports up to 1,150 W. -
Is stacking supported?
All models support Huawei's iStack and can participate in SVF fabrics for centralized management. -
How is Huawei CLI compared to Cisco?
CLI is Cisco-like with hierarchical menus and robust scripting—easy to adopt for Cisco-trained admins . -
Any interoperability concerns with other brands?
Generally works well; minor route metric tweaks or VLAN settings may be required in mixed environments. -
How stable and reliable is it?
Built on VRP, dependable hardware; early firmware issues have been largely resolved, with strong vendor support. -
Why is pricing competitive?
Huawei offers feature-rich switches at lower prices, often 30–50% less than equivalent offerings, with comparable performance.
Best Deployment Practices
- Calculate PoE usage: Ensure your power-sourcing budget exceeds actual demand and allows expansion.
- Design resiliency: Use dual power modules, iStack/SVF for redundancy, and establish LACP/VRRP backups.
- Enable security features: Turn on 802.1X, DHCP/ARP snooping, MACsec for secure edge access.
- Use fabric architecture: Leverage SVF or centralized management like Huawei iMaster for scalable, manageable networks.
- Regular updates: Stick to VRP stable/fix releases; follow Huawei recommendations for OS upgrades.
Conclusion
The Huawei S5720 series offers a comprehensive, modular approach to campus and branch switching—from energy-efficient gigabit access to high-performance PoE+ cores. With four tiers designed to fit different use cases and budgets, it gives enterprises flexibility without sacrificing features, performance, or security.
Whether you're deploying a small office, campus aggregation, or core switch, the S5720 family provides a viable, cost-effective alternative to legacy brands.
Next steps: Assess your network's needs—consider port counts, PoE power, and routing requirements—then select a sub-series accordingly. Consult Huawei datasheets, partner resellers, or request an evaluation unit to validate performance in your environment. With structured planning, the S5720 can serve as a reliable foundation for future-ready network infrastructure.
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