Power over Ethernet. A technology that enables an Ethernet cable to carry power (electricity) in addition to data. Its purpose is to reduce the need for wires and improve network uptime (free from power outage). PoE consists of three components, i.e. the power sourcing device, the device to be powered, and the Ethernet cable. PoE is defined in IEEE 802.3af. The development of PoE was first inspired by the increasing use of VoIP. Users want VoIP service to be uninterrupted by power outage, like POTS. Nowadays, PoE products experience an increase in use, especially for powering VoIP phone, wireless access point, and network camera. Also see inline power, Ethernet, POTS, VoIP.