MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+IN Switch 24x Gigabit Ports + 2x SFP+, Layer 3 Smart Switch

When it comes to building a robust wired network with enterprise-class reliability, the MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+IN Switch is one of the most popular options for small and medium businesses, ISPs, and advanced home labs. Known for its fanless design, silent operation, and powerful RouterOS features, this mikroTik switch is ideal for anyone looking to combine switching performance with Layer 3 routing capabilities.

In an era where businesses demand low-latency connectivity, higher throughput, and flexibility, this switch stands out as a versatile solution. Whether you are upgrading from an unmanaged switch or expanding an existing network, CRS326-24G-2S+IN offers excellent value for money, impressive port density, and the freedom to configure it exactly the way your network needs.

Complete Overview of MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+IN Switch

The CRS326-24G-2S+IN is a member of MikroTik’s Cloud Router Switch series and was designed to serve as a hybrid solution — part high-performance switch, part Layer 3 router. It comes with 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports for standard copper connections and two SFP+ cages that support 10G uplinks, making it a perfect choice for networks that require high-speed backbone links.

This model runs RouterOS with a SwitchOS-like interface, giving you the freedom to choose between a simplified switch configuration or a fully routed setup with firewall, QoS, VLANs, and more. With a powerful 800 MHz dual-core CPU and 512 MB of RAM, it handles VLAN segmentation, ACLs, and inter-VLAN routing without slowing down. Its fanless, desktop-style metal case makes it perfect for office environments where noise can be a problem.

Another big advantage is its dual boot feature, allowing you to select between RouterOS for advanced routing or SwOS for pure Layer 2 performance. This flexibility is extremely helpful if your network design changes over time.

Use Cases and Applications

The MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+IN Switch is used in a variety of environments. Small offices often deploy it as a core switch to connect PCs, IP phones, and servers, while taking advantage of the SFP+ ports for fiber uplinks to the router or data center. Managed service providers and ISPs use it at customer sites for distribution because of its cost-effective 10 Gbps uplinks and silent operation. Advanced home users and homelab enthusiasts love it because it supports VLANs, inter-VLAN routing, and even firewalling, all in a single compact box.

Ports and Connectivity

This switch is loaded with 24 Gigabit RJ-45 ports, which means you can connect a large number of wired devices without an additional switch. The two SFP+ cages support 1G or 10G modules, enabling high-speed uplinks to servers or aggregation switches. With its full Layer 2 feature set, including 802.1Q VLANs, STP/RSTP, port isolation, and link aggregation (802.3ad), the CRS326-24G-2S+IN can easily fit into a professional network topology.

Ideal for Silent Offices

If you are designing a network for a quiet office, fan noise can be a serious concern. The CRS326-24G-2S+IN is completely fanless, which means it operates silently even under full load. This is perfect for environments like design studios, conference rooms, and co-working spaces where low noise levels are critical.

Dual Boot Flexibility

Many network admins love the dual boot feature of this switch. If you need routing features, you can boot into RouterOS and configure dynamic routing, firewall rules, and NAT. If you only need a pure Layer 2 switch with maximum throughput, you can boot into SwOS for a simpler interface and slightly higher switching performance.

Comparison with Similar MikroTik Models

As you can see, the CRS326-24G-2S+IN is the sweet spot if you need lots of copper ports but still want to keep 10G capability for uplinks.

Technical Specifications Table

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the CRS326-24G-2S+IN fanless?
Yes, it has passive cooling and runs silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments.

2. Can I use 10G SFP+ modules from third-party brands?
Yes, MikroTik devices are generally compatible with many third-party modules, but MikroTik recommends using their own SFP+ modules for guaranteed performance.

3. Does this switch support PoE output?
No, this model does not provide PoE-Out. For PoE support, consider the CRS328-24P-4S+RM.

4. Can it perform inter-VLAN routing?
Yes, with RouterOS you can configure static routes and enable inter-VLAN routing.

5. What is the switching capacity?
It offers a non-blocking throughput of 52 Gbps with a forwarding rate of 78 Mpps.

6. How is it powered?
It uses an external power adapter with 18-30 V input.

7. Can I rack-mount it?
This is a desktop model, but MikroTik offers optional rackmount kits for small racks.

8. Is it good for ISP distribution?
Yes, its combination of copper ports and 10G uplinks makes it suitable for WISP/ISP distribution networks.

9. What is the OS difference between RouterOS and SwOS?
RouterOS provides full routing, firewall, QoS, and scripting capabilities, whereas SwOS offers a simplified web interface for switching.

10. Does ITMan sell this product?
Yes! ITMan offers the MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+IN Switch with fast shipping across UAE and GCC.

Conclusion

The MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+IN Switch is a reliable, feature-rich, and cost-effective choice for businesses, ISPs, and network enthusiasts who need a powerful yet silent Gigabit switch with 10G uplinks. Its dual boot flexibility, full Layer 2 feature set, and RouterOS support make it highly versatile. When purchased from ITMan, you also benefit from local support and quick delivery across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the entire UAE.

If you are looking for a future-proof switch that offers both copper and fiber connectivity in one compact device, the CRS326-24G-2S+IN is an investment worth making.