In one embodiment, a method includes receiving at a remote network device, power and data from a central network device, wherein the power is used to power the remote network device, performing auto-negotiation with the central network device, wherein the auto-negotiation includes operating the remote network device in a low voltage mode during fault sensing of a power circuit at the remote network device, and selecting a power operating mode, wherein selecting the power operating mode includes selecting a high voltage mode if no fault is detected during the fault sensing, the high voltage mode comprising DC (direct current) pulse power. An apparatus is also disclosed herein.