MikroTik CRS326-4C+20G+2Q+RM Switch High-Performance Layer 3

When it comes to high-capacity switching for growing businesses, data centers, or ISP environments, the MikroTik CRS326-4C+20G+2Q+RM Switch stands out as a powerful solution that blends enterprise-level performance with MikroTik’s signature affordability. This 1U rackmount MikroTik switch is designed for scenarios where throughput, flexibility, and scalability are essential. IT managers, network engineers, and system integrators who need reliable Layer 3 switching with plenty of bandwidth headroom will find the CRS326-4C+20G+2Q+RM to be a perfect fit.

Unlike entry-level switches, this model supports advanced features such as VLANs, routing, ACLs, and high-speed interconnects through its combination of Gigabit and 40G QSFP+ ports. Whether you are upgrading an existing infrastructure or building a new network backbone, this switch delivers performance and efficiency at an excellent price point.

Comprehensive Product Overview : MikroTik CRS326-4C+20G+2Q+RM Switch

The MikroTik CRS326-4C+20G+2Q+RM Switch is part of MikroTik’s Cloud Router Switch (CRS) lineup, which merges the flexibility of a router with the throughput of a switch. The device is powered by a robust switching chip that ensures wire-speed forwarding for all its ports, minimizing latency and maximizing throughput. Its dual 40G QSFP+ ports allow high-capacity uplinks to core switches or servers, making it suitable for aggregation and distribution layers.

Internally, it comes with a powerful CPU and ample memory to handle Layer 3 routing tasks, DHCP, static routing, and even some dynamic routing protocols. MikroTik’s RouterOS (with SwitchOS option) provides administrators with full control over configurations, from simple port management to complex network policies. The dual boot option lets you choose between RouterOS for advanced routing or SwitchOS for a simpler GUI-based switch experience.

Practical Applications

This switch is a versatile choice for various network environments. It can be deployed as a core switch for small to medium enterprises, as an aggregation switch for campus networks, or even as a top-of-rack switch in data centers. ISPs can use it to connect customer aggregation points, while system integrators can deploy it for hotels, universities, or large office buildings where multiple VLANs and high bandwidth are required. Its 40G uplinks make it future-proof for growing bandwidth demands.

Port Configuration and Connectivity

The port layout of the MikroTik CRS326-4C+20G+2Q+RM Switch is one of its biggest strengths. It includes:

• 20x Gigabit Ethernet ports for general network access
• 4x Combo ports (RJ45/SFP) for flexible deployment with either copper or fiber connections
• 2x QSFP+ 40G ports for ultra-high-speed uplinks or stacking

This combination allows you to build mixed environments with copper and fiber, aggregate multiple gigabit devices, and maintain a high-speed backbone with 40G links.

Ideal for VLAN-Rich Environments

Many businesses require segmentation of their network into multiple VLANs for security and traffic management. The CRS326-4C+20G+2Q+RM is perfect for this, supporting hardware offloaded VLAN tagging and filtering. This means you can separate guest, IoT, voice, and business-critical traffic without sacrificing performance.

Future-Proof Backbone with 40G Uplinks

With two QSFP+ ports, this switch allows you to build a 40Gbps backbone for server farms, SAN storage, or uplink to a core switch. As data demands increase — with video conferencing, virtualization, and cloud backups — having 40G connectivity ensures your network does not become the bottleneck.

Comparison with Similar MikroTik Models

Compared to CRS328 or CRS326-24G-2S+, the MikroTik CRS326-4C+20G+2Q+RM Switch is the only model that gives you 40G QSFP+ ports, making it a superior choice for environments planning to scale beyond 10G in the near future.

Technical Specifications Table

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What makes the MikroTik CRS326-4C+20G+2Q+RM Switch special compared to other CRS switches?
Its dual 40G QSFP+ ports provide unmatched uplink capacity for growing networks.

2. Can I use this switch in a data center?
Yes, its rackmount design and 40G uplinks make it suitable for aggregation or top-of-rack applications.

3. Does it support VLANs and Layer 3 routing?
Yes, it supports VLANs, static routing, and limited dynamic routing in RouterOS mode.

4. How many devices can I connect?
You can connect up to 20 Gigabit devices plus 4 additional devices through combo ports.

5. Is stacking supported?
You can use the 40G QSFP+ ports for switch interconnection or link aggregation, effectively acting as a stack.

6. Can it handle DHCP server functionality?
Yes, RouterOS allows you to configure DHCP server, relay, and other L3 services.

7. How power-efficient is it?
The CRS326 is designed for low power consumption compared to traditional enterprise switches.

8. What management interfaces are available?
Web GUI, WinBox, SSH, and CLI are all supported.

9. Is it fanless or does it have active cooling?
It has active cooling with quiet fans to maintain temperature under heavy loads.

10. Can I buy it in Dubai or UAE?
Yes, ITMan sells the MikroTik CRS326-4C+20G+2Q+RM Switch in the UAE with warranty and local support.

Conclusion

The MikroTik CRS326-4C+20G+2Q+RM Switch is an exceptional choice for IT professionals seeking a cost-effective yet future-proof network switch. Its combination of 20 Gigabit ports, four combo ports, and two blazing-fast 40G QSFP+ uplinks make it ideal for core, distribution, or aggregation layers. With dual boot OS options, rich Layer 3 features, and reliable hardware design, this switch can anchor your network for years to come. ITMan proudly offers this model in Dubai and across the UAE, ensuring fast delivery and technical support.