MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Switch

The MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Switch is one of the most powerful and feature-packed devices in the MikroTik Cloud Router Switch series. Offering a robust combination of high-speed ports, exceptional build quality, and advanced software features, this MikroTik switch is an ideal solution for modern networks. As organizations increasingly rely on data-driven infrastructure, selecting the right networking device becomes paramount. The CRS504-4XQ-IN addresses these needs with its superior functionality, making it perfect for data centers, enterprise networks, and any environment that demands reliable and fast connectivity.

The MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN is equipped with four 40Gbps QSFP+ ports that provide high bandwidth for demanding network operations. This switch is designed to handle large amounts of data with ease, ensuring your network stays up and running even under heavy loads. As part of the MikroTik Cloud Router Switch family, it integrates perfectly with RouterOS, MikroTik’s versatile operating system, allowing users to configure and optimize their network with ease. In addition to the impressive hardware, the CRS504-4XQ-IN also supports advanced features such as VLAN, IP routing, and network monitoring, which makes it a great fit for complex networks requiring high scalability and flexibility.

Key Features and Specifications of the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Switch

This switch brings together a number of cutting-edge features and specifications that make it stand out in the competitive networking market. Here are some of the most notable ones:

• High-Speed Ports: With four 40Gbps QSFP+ ports, the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN provides exceptional bandwidth, ensuring your network can handle large data loads without bottlenecks.
• Advanced Routing and Switching Features: Thanks to the RouterOS operating system, the CRS504-4XQ-IN supports advanced routing features, including dynamic routing protocols, VLAN, and IP-based services. These make it an incredibly versatile tool for various network applications.
• Scalable Design: With multiple high-speed ports and the ability to scale up as your network grows, this switch is perfect for businesses or data centers that require more bandwidth over time.
• Quality Build and Reliability: MikroTik is known for its durability and reliability. The CRS504-4XQ-IN is no exception, built with quality materials that ensure long-term use and stable performance under high workloads.

Practical Use Cases of the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN

The MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Switch is a versatile piece of equipment that can be used in a wide range of environments. Whether you are working in a data center, an enterprise network, or even a high-performance home network setup, the CRS504-4XQ-IN has something to offer. Some of the most common use cases include:

• Data Centers: The CRS504-4XQ-IN is perfect for high-performance data center environments that require fast data transmission across multiple devices. The four 40Gbps ports ensure that data can move seamlessly between servers, storage units, and network switches.
• Enterprise Networks: For businesses with large-scale IT infrastructure, the CRS504-4XQ-IN offers the reliability and speed necessary to handle complex applications, including VoIP, video conferencing, and cloud computing services.
• High-Performance Networking for ISPs and Telcos: Internet service providers (ISPs) and telecommunications companies rely on high-bandwidth switches like the CRS504-4XQ-IN to manage large-scale networking systems. Its 40Gbps ports ensure high-speed connections even in the most demanding environments.

Detailed Breakdown of Ports and Performance

The MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Switch stands out with its combination of multiple high-speed ports. The four 40Gbps QSFP+ ports offer more than enough bandwidth for any high-demand networking task. These ports can be used for uplinks to other switches, connecting to high-speed servers or storage systems, and even for connecting to other high-performance networking hardware.

• Port Types and Functions: The switch is equipped with QSFP+ ports, a popular choice for high-performance networking, providing both speed and versatility for modern network architectures.
• Bandwidth: With a total throughput of up to 160Gbps, the CRS504 4XQ IN ensures that there’s no bottleneck when transmitting large amounts of data across the network.
• Expansion Capabilities: The switch also supports various network configurations, including stacking and daisy-chaining, making it easy to expand your network without requiring new hardware.

Quality and Build of the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN

The quality of a networking device is just as important as its performance. MikroTik’s CRS504-4XQ-IN Switch is built with durability and reliability in mind. Its compact and robust chassis ensures it can handle the rigors of continuous operation in demanding environments such as data centers and large enterprises.

• Reliability: Known for its superior build quality, the CRS504 4XQ IN Switch is designed to run 24/7 without interruptions, ensuring that your network stays operational at all times.
• Efficient Cooling: This switch features efficient cooling solutions to prevent overheating, which ensures reliable operation even when the device is under heavy load.

Comparisons with Similar Products

While the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN is a high-end switch, there are similar products on the market that serve comparable purposes. Here’s how it stacks up against other MikroTik models:

• MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM: While the CRS326 offers fewer high-speed ports, it is a more affordable solution with excellent reliability for smaller networks that do not require the high throughput of the CRS504.
• MikroTik CRS317-1G-16S+RM: Another powerful switch from MikroTik, the CRS317 offers more ports but at a lower bandwidth, making it suitable for less demanding environments.
• MikroTik CRS354-48G-4S+2Q+RM: A more comprehensive solution with additional Gigabit Ethernet ports, making it ideal for large-scale networks that require a high number of connections, albeit with lower speed on the Ethernet ports.

MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Specifications Table

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the key benefits of using the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN?
   The key benefits include high-speed 40Gbps ports, reliable build quality, and advanced routing features for complex networks.
2. Can I use this switch for a home network?
   Yes, it’s suitable for high-performance home networks, especially those with heavy data traffic.
3. Does it support VLAN configuration?
   Yes, it supports VLANs for segmenting network traffic effectively.
4. What is the maximum throughput of the CRS504-4XQ-IN?
   The maximum throughput is 160Gbps, which is ideal for demanding network environments.
5. Can the CRS504-4XQ-IN be used in a stacked configuration?
   Yes, you can stack multiple units to expand your network infrastructure.
6. What is the warranty on the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Switch?
   MikroTik offers a 1-year warranty on the CRS504-4XQ-IN.
7. Is RouterOS compatible with this switch?
   Yes, the CRS504 runs RouterOS, allowing for flexible network configuration.
8. How many devices can I connect to the CRS504-4XQ-IN?
   The number of devices depends on the network architecture, but with 40Gbps ports, it can handle thousands of connections.
9. Can I use this switch for IP routing?
   Yes, it supports advanced IP routing, making it suitable for large-scale network deployments.
10. What is the cooling mechanism of the CRS504-4XQ-IN?
    It features an active fan system to ensure proper cooling even under heavy load.

Conclusion

The MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Switch is a powerhouse for networks that demand high-speed connectivity and advanced routing capabilities. With its 40Gbps QSFP+ ports and scalable design, it is perfect for data centers, large enterprises, and service providers. It combines exceptional performance with MikroTik’s renowned reliability and affordability, making it a top choice in the world of high-performance networking. Whether you’re upgrading your existing infrastructure or building a new one, the CRS504-4XQ-IN offers the scalability, performance, and features necessary to handle the most demanding network requirements.