I'm not sure if it is as loud as a DVR, I never used one. It is loud enough to hear it in the same room. I haven't replaced the fan yet. My primary switch (HP2530 POE+) is running great so I keep it for a backup.
You can skip the web interface and access via SSH or TELNET. There's a CLI menu screen(s) option too. The CLI menu covers most of your needs and has a faster response than the web gui. Some of the CLI commands I linked in the secure the switch pdf document are only available through command line.
Sorry for the late response.
Yeah I got them, I have to say they're not that loud but the fans vibrate at a pitch that is super annoying. Will be replacing the fans fairly soon - they're in a room I don't work in much right now so it's not real pressing.
IMExp the web interface literally does not work without Java. An error message was the most I could get. I tried most the usual tricks to get Java enabled (lowering security, using outdated version, adding web address to list of acceptable sites, turning off security checks in advanced settings, etc.).
There's no SSH but there is telnet, which has a great menu system that I like a lot, it makes configuring the switches really easy! Upgraded both their firmware to H.10.115 immediately using TFTPd64 and telnet menu - it was a breeze. Synced time to us.pool.ntp.org, also exceedingly simple. Switch identification and contact info really useful for applications with multiple disparate users/semi-public settings (like the restaurant I was planning to install one). Cool port monitoring/statistics options based on device name, MAC or IP.
Only thing I wish I had noticed is they're not 802.3at, only 802.3af - would be useful to have the .11at standard for a 4-port POE-powered switch on long runs. Also would be nice to have more POE ports, should have probably gotten a 16 or 24 now that I think about it. Oh well!
I am a Procurve convert though from now on. HP's web support services were unbelievably well laid-out and easy to access, and most of all (compared to the Force10/Dells) *free*. Perhaps the best still-supported 12-year old device I've ever seen.