---
title: What Is Power Over Ethernet? (PoE)
description: "#### Power Over Ethernet This nifty technology allows your basic Ethernet network cable to double as a power cord. It transmits both electricity and data through to small wireless devices that don't require a lot of energy to run such…"
url: "https://www.k12usa.com/docs/what-is-power-over-ethernet-poe/"
updated: "2025-09-12"
category: WirelessTrakker
tags:
  - WirelessTrakker
---

# What Is Power Over Ethernet? (PoE)

#### Power Over Ethernet

This nifty technology allows your basic Ethernet network cable to double as a power cord. It transmits both electricity and data through to small wireless devices that don't require a lot of energy to run such as the Ubiquiti UniFi access points that pair with your WirelessTrakker controller.

By eliminating the need for plug-in power adapters and electrical outlets, you can place your equipment exactly where you want it — on walls and ceilings; tucked into small, hard-to-reach spaces; and far away from AC outlets. It's a whole lot easier to run a simple network cable than to perform electrical acrobatics, like wiring in a new outlet and risking shock or worse.

If your Ethernet switch port isn't compatible with PoE, no worries — PoE power injector is a simple add-on that will fix the problem and is included with all Ubiquiti UniFi APs.

#### Benefits

- Minimal power requirements — Keeps your wireless systems streamlined and simple
- Saves you money — It's a lot cheaper to run Ethernet cables than to install new electrical lines
- Frees you to locate access points wherever you'd like — Not where the electricity is

#### Watch Your Standards

PoE comes in three standards, which run on different voltage levels and are incompatible with each other. If you're not sure about your compatibility, [Contact us](mailto:support@k12usa.com) and we'll help you out. There are plenty of hacks for this issue.