MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+RM Switch

MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+RM Switch is a highly versatile and cost-effective Layer 3 switch designed for small to medium-sized businesses and advanced home networks. It offers a robust feature set, including 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 2 SFP+ slots, making it an ideal choice for high-speed networking environments. This MikroTik switch provides excellent performance with MikroTik’s RouterOS and SwOS, allowing users to customize their network setup according to their needs.

MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+RM Switch

The CRS326-24G-2S+RM is a rack-mountable switch equipped with 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports and two 10G SFP+ cages. It supports dual operating systems—RouterOS and SwOS—giving users the flexibility to choose between advanced routing features or a simple switch configuration. With a fanless design, this switch operates silently, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments.

Features of MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+RM Switch

• Dual Boot Option: Users can choose between MikroTik’s RouterOS (for advanced networking capabilities) and SwOS (a lightweight switching OS). This flexibility allows for seamless integration into different network environments.
• 24 Gigabit Ethernet Ports: Provides high-speed data transfer for multiple devices, ensuring seamless connectivity across the network.
• 2 SFP+ 10G Ports: Supports fiber optic connections for high-speed uplinks and interconnectivity between switches.
• Fanless Silent Operation: Unlike many enterprise-grade switches, the CRS326-24G-2S+RM operates without fans, ensuring silent performance—ideal for offices and home labs.
• Layer 3 Switching Capabilities: Supports VLANs, inter-VLAN routing, and static routing, making it suitable for complex network topologies.
• Multiple Management Options: Can be managed via CLI, Winbox, Web Interface, or API, providing flexibility for different user preferences.
• Power-Efficient Design: Consumes only 19W of power, making it an energy-efficient option compared to many other switches in its category.

Benefits of MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+RM Switch

• Affordable High-Speed Networking – Combines 24 Gigabit ports and 2 SFP+ 10G ports at a budget-friendly price.
• Versatile Deployment – Suitable for home labs, small business networks, and ISPs.
• Customizable OS Selection – Choose between RouterOS for advanced routing features or SwOS for simplified switch management.
  Low Power Consumption – Reduces operational costs while maintaining top performance.
• Silent Operation – No moving parts, ensuring durability and noise-free operation.

Use Cases of MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+RM Switch

• Small and Medium Businesses – Ensures efficient and reliable networking for offices with multiple workstations.
• Data Centers & Server Rooms – Ideal for connecting servers and high-speed storage solutions via its SFP+ ports.
• Internet Service Providers (ISPs) – Can be used as an access or distribution switch for high-speed internet networks.
• Home Labs & Enthusiasts – Perfect for network engineers and IT professionals testing enterprise-level setups.

How to Configure MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+RM Switch

Setting up the MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+RM Switch is straightforward:

1. Choose the Operating System: Boot into either RouterOS or SwOS, depending on your needs.
2. Connect to the Management Interface: Access the switch via Winbox, Web GUI, or SSH.
3. Set Up VLANs & Routing: If using RouterOS, configure VLANs, static routes, and firewall rules as needed.
4. Enable SFP+ Uplinks: Ensure 10G uplinks are active for high-speed data transfers.
5. Optimize Performance: Adjust settings such as MTU size, spanning tree protocols, and QoS for better traffic management.

Pro Tips for Maximizing the Performance of CRS326-24G-2S+RM

• Use SwOS for Simpler Networks: If you only need basic switching functionality, SwOS provides a lightweight and efficient solution.
• Upgrade to RouterOS for Advanced Features: If you require VLANs, Layer 3 routing, or firewall rules, RouterOS is the better option.
• Leverage SFP+ Ports for Uplinks: To maximize throughput, connect high-bandwidth devices via the 10G fiber ports.
• Monitor Traffic with MikroTik Tools: Use Winbox and MikroTik’s monitoring features to analyze and optimize network performance.

Technical Specifications

Conclusion

The MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+RM Switch is an excellent choice for businesses, ISPs, and advanced users looking for an affordable yet powerful Layer 3 switch. With its 24 Gigabit ports, dual 10G SFP+ uplinks, dual boot OS, and silent operation, it provides the flexibility and performance needed for various networking applications. Whether you need a simple switch or an advanced router, the CRS326-24G-2S+RM delivers exceptional value in a compact and efficient design.

How to Set Up MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+RM Switch

Setting up the MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+RM Switch is simple, whether you’re using it as a basic switch with SwOS or configuring advanced networking with RouterOS. Follow these steps to get started:

Step 1: Connect to the Switch

1. Power On the Switch

   • Plug in the switch using the provided power adapter.

2. Connect to a Computer

   • Use an Ethernet cable to connect your computer to any of the 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports.

3. Access the Web Interface

   • Open a web browser and enter the default IP:
     • SwOS: 192.168.88.1
     • RouterOS: 192.168.88.1 (Can also be accessed via Winbox)

Step 2: Choose the Operating System (SwOS or RouterOS)

• By default, the switch boots into SwOS.
• To switch to RouterOS, go to System > RouterOS Mode and reboot.
• If you want to return to SwOS, go to System > SwOS Mode in RouterOS.

Step 3: Configure Basic Settings

For SwOS (Simple Switching Mode):

• Go to the Web Interface (192.168.88.1)
• Set the IP Address (Network > IP Settings)
• Configure VLANs if needed (VLANs Tab)
• Save and Apply Changes

For RouterOS (Advanced Configuration):

1. Set Admin Password

   • Navigate to System > Password and set a strong password.

2. Change the Default IP Address

   • Go to IP > Addresses, add a new address (e.g., 192.168.1.1/24).

3. Enable DHCP Server (Optional)

   • Go to IP > DHCP Server and configure a new DHCP server for automatic IP assignments.

4. Configure VLANs (If Needed)

   • Go to Bridge > VLANs, create VLANs, and assign them to the appropriate ports.

5. Enable SFP+ Ports for High-Speed Uplinks

   • Navigate to Interfaces > SFP+ Ports and configure link settings.

Step 4: Save and Test the Configuration

• Apply Changes and reboot if necessary.
• Test Connectivity by connecting multiple devices and verifying network speeds.

Additional Tips

✅ Use RouterOS for Advanced Features – VLANs, Routing, Firewall
✅ Use SwOS for Simple Switching – Plug-and-play functionality
✅ Upgrade Firmware – Check for updates under System > Packages
✅ Monitor Traffic – Use Winbox or Web GUI for real-time monitoring

By following these steps, you can quickly set up and optimize your MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+RM Switch for your network needs.