If you decide to install a switch or any electronic device outdoors it should be rated as such. This is especially important if the device will be subjected to direct sunlight.
Since the POE switch will be enclosed in a sealed container the importance of using a ruggedized / hardened POE Switch matters even more.
Heat is the primary killer of most electronics as it dries up capacitors and heats up parts not rated to sustain elevated temperatures. Hence why it’s imperative to review the operating temperature of any switch you are going to consider.
Keep in mind when you install anything into a sealed box the internal temperatures can and will exceed the outdoor temperatures from 1 to 2 times as seen in a vehicle sitting all day in the sun.
So let’s just say you’re like 90% of the people here who want this done on the cheap.
Whelps, here are some things to consider for this project:
Switch: Make sure the case is metal. Offers the highest operating temperature you can find.
Enclosure: The box should be vented to allow air flow.
Fan: Install a small 12 VDC fan to help exhaust the heat and keep the hardware cool.
Radiator: You can use anything from a metal plate to aluminum heat sinks used for computers etc. Affix them to the switches housing to help dissipate the heat. Most if not all switches have no thermal connection from the PCB to the case.
Thus you need to get creative in mating any heat generating components to the exterior case like using thermal pads. This also insures you don’t energize the case resulting in a safety risk to human!
Orientation: The switch ports should face down to insure any moisture drips away.
Electrical: Apply dielectric grease to both RJ45 jack and input terminals to reduce air & moisture from corroding the pins.
Grounding: If this switch and wiring break 50 feet in wire run. You better have proper single point earth grounding to the homes electrical system.
Ethernet Cable: If the Ethernet cable will see UV and weather the cable must be outdoor rated. In the worst case let’s just say you can’t buy the proper wire it should at least be placed in a conduit for more protection vs exposed to the elements.
The cable should be shielded regardless of the type of cable to allow proper grounding. Otherwise expect a collect call from Thor when lightning strikes!
Good Luck!