A power over Ethernet controller comprising: control circuitry; at least one temperature sensor operatively connected to the control circuitry; and a plurality of electronically controlled switches responsive to the control circuit, each of the electronically controlled switches enabling power to a respective port and having associated therewith inrush current limiting functionality, the control circuit being operative to input at least one temperature indication from the at least one temperature sensor; operate at least one of the plurality of electronically controlled switches thereby enabling power to a first port; and delay a time period dependent on the at least one temperature indication, whereby operation of a second of the plurality of electronically controlled switches to enable power to a second port is permitted only after the delayed time period.