In Summary, PoE switches can be used as Non-PoE switches, but it is not recommended to do it, which will largely waste the powerful functions of PoE switches. For example, you can use either the POE or the regular switch. In order to connect power outlets, the user needs one additional cable. Therefore, the benefits of using PoE switches to. Can a PoE switch be used as a regular switch (using a power outlet)? I don't really need a PoE switch but I found a very cheap one online. This functional difference gives rise to different.