A method for execution in a central controller comprises obtaining an interconnection topology for a plurality of nodes interconnected via hybrid data/power links; obtaining a power distribution map associated with the topology; and causing DC power to be distributed to the nodes via the links according to the power distribution map. Also, such a node in which there is at least one power-receiving port and at least one power-transmitting port, a controller and power switching circuitry. The controller operates based on power drawn from a portion of the DC power received via the power-receiving port. The controller determines a destination of data packets received via any of the ports and outputting those of the received data packets that are not destined for the network device via another one of the ports. The controller also causes the power switching circuitry to output via plural power-transmitting ports respective portions of the received DC power received at the power-receiving port.