MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+RM Switch

MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+RM Switch

The MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+RM Switch belongs to the Cloud Router Switch family, bringing the efficiency of hardware-based switching to deployments of all sizes. It features the unique “Dual Boot” capability, allowing users to choose between the simplified SwOS for switching or the feature-rich RouterOS for advanced routing. This switch is engineered to provide robust Layer 2 management, high resiliency, and incredible ease of use for small-to-midsize corporate environments, studios, and advanced home labs.

Key Features of the CRS326-24G-2S+RM:

• Marvell DX Switch Chip : Utilizes a dedicated hardware-based switching engine (98DX3216) to provide wire-speed performance across all ports simultaneously.

• 24 Gigabit Ports : All 24 ports support 10/100/1000 Mbps, ensuring stable and reliable connectivity for high-speed wired devices.

• Dual 10G SFP+ Uplinks : Features two field-replaceable $10G$ SFP+ cages, allowing you to future-proof your backbone with high-bandwidth fiber connections to servers or core switches.

• Dual Boot OS : Offers the flexibility to boot into SwOS for simple, fast switching, or RouterOS (Level 5) for advanced routing, firewalls, and complex networking features.

• Non-Blocking Throughput : Boasts a total non-blocking throughput of 44 Gbps and a switching capacity of 88 Gbps, ensuring no bottlenecks even under heavy local traffic.

• Silent Passive Cooling : Features a completely fanless design. This ensures the hardware remains operational and silent, making it perfect for noise-sensitive office environments.

• Flexible Powering : Supports dual power redundancy options via a standard DC jack or Passive PoE-in on Ethernet Port 1, ensuring maximum uptime.

Applications and Ideal Use Cases

The CRS326-24G-2S+RM is the go-to solution for cost-effectively modernizing the edge of your network:

• High-Speed Storage & NAS : Ideal for connecting workstations to high-performance NAS units via $10G$ fiber to handle large media transfers.

• Office Network Segmentation : Provides the necessary tools to segment departments or guest traffic via VLANs while maintaining high security through MAC filtering.

• Noise-Sensitive Deployments : Perfect for recording studios, libraries, and open-plan offices where the distracting sound of equipment fans is not an option.

• Enterprise Edge Expansion : A high-density, low-power consumption upgrade for networks that need more ports and higher uplink speeds without the complexity of Layer 3 routing.

Technical Specifications at a Glance