Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a technology for wired LANs. This allows a single cable usually Ethernet cable to provide both data connection and electric power to devices such as IP cameras, NVR recorders, wireless access points, etc.
If your PoE switch uses 48V 802.3af or 802.3at standard, it is considered to be active PoE.
Passive PoE refers to any devices using PoE that is not 802.3af or 802.3at.