MikroTik CSS326-24G-2S+RM Switch

In today’s fast-paced digital world, building a stable, secure, and high-performing network infrastructure is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re setting up a corporate office, a growing SME, or a data center rack, reliable switches form the foundation of seamless communication. One switch that consistently stands out in terms of value, performance, and flexibility is the MikroTik CSS326-24G-2S+RM. Engineered for businesses that demand intelligent switching at a budget-friendly price, this MikroTik Switch is the answer to modern networking demands.

What is MikroTik CSS326-24G-2S+RM and Why It Matters

The MikroTik CSS326-24G-2S+RM belongs to MikroTik’s Cloud Smart Switch (CSS) product line—a series of intelligent Layer 2 switches designed to balance power, usability, and affordability. With 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 2 high-speed 10G SFP+ ports, it provides extensive port density ideal for mid-size networks and access layer deployments.

The device is powered by MikroTik’s lightweight SwOS (Switch OS), an intuitive operating system that allows for easy switch management through a web-based GUI. The CSS326-24G-2S+RM supports all standard Layer 2 features like VLANs, port isolation, broadcast storm control, and port mirroring, making it a robust tool for managing network segmentation and traffic control.

Its rackmount form factor (1U) and fanless design make it a silent, energy-efficient addition to any server room. With dual boot support (SwOS or RouterOS via firmware), it offers flexibility for different deployment preferences.

Top Features of MikroTik CSS326-24G-2S+RM

Let’s dive into what makes this switch a top pick:

1. High Port Density

• 24 x Gigabit Ethernet ports (10/100/1000 Mbps)

• 2 x SFP+ cages supporting up to 10 Gbps each

This configuration supports both high-throughput uplinks and dense client connectivity, perfect for aggregation and access layers.

2. SwOS for Simple and Efficient Management

• Web-based interface for quick setup

• Lightweight and fast

• Offers all basic Layer 2 configuration tools

You don’t need CLI expertise to manage this switch—ideal for IT teams looking to save time without compromising control.

3. Advanced Layer 2 Features

• VLAN support (IEEE 802.1Q)

• Port isolation

• Port mirroring

• Bandwidth limiting

• Broadcast storm control

• Access Control Lists (ACLs)

• MAC filtering

These features make it easy to segment your network and apply security and performance policies effectively.

4. Dual Boot Option

The CSS326 allows you to boot into either SwOS or RouterOS (with limited features under RouterOS), offering flexibility depending on your project requirements.

5. Silent Operation

The passive cooling system means no fans—making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments like studios, offices, and even home labs.

Benefits of Using CSS326-24G-2S+RM

• Cost Efficiency – Among all switches in its class, the CSS326 offers possibly the Best Price CSS326-24G-2S+RM without compromising on essential features.
• Powerful Uplinks – With dual 10G SFP+ ports, you can easily connect to your backbone or storage systems with minimal bottlenecks.
• Plug and Play – Ready to go out of the box. The SwOS interface makes it super easy to set up VLANs or port rules.
• Energy Efficient – Low power consumption and a fanless design make this switch not only silent but also green.
• Reliable – Manufactured by MikroTik, a company trusted worldwide for quality and performance.

Real-World Applications

• Small to Medium Office Networks
  Ideal for connecting multiple workstations, printers, and VoIP phones with seamless uplinks to a core router or firewall.
• Hotel or Hospitality Installations
  Multiple VLANs can be used to separate staff, guest, and management traffic for better security and monitoring.
• Retail or Branch Office Locations
  Perfect for connecting POS systems, back-office PCs, surveillance cameras, and wireless access points.
• Home Labs or Media Workstations
  If you’re a tech enthusiast or professional, CSS326 gives you enough ports and SFP+ capacity for 10G NAS or servers at a very affordable cost.

Is MikroTik CSS326-24G-2S+RM a Router?

Technically, no—it’s a Layer 2 managed switch, not a router. But the presence of RouterOS boot support and some Layer 3-like tools might confuse beginners. If you’re looking for the Best router CSS326-24G-2S+RM, be aware that this device is optimized for switching, not routing. However, if you’re booting into RouterOS and adding basic routing functionality, it can serve limited routing roles in small setups.

Comparison with Similar MikroTik Switches

✔️ If you’re looking for basic switching with 10G uplinks, the CSS326-24G-2S+RM is your best bet.
❗ But if you need routing, scripting, or PoE, you should consider the CRS lineup instead.

Optimizing SwOS for VLAN Deployment

Setting up VLANs in SwOS is extremely simple:

1. Navigate to the Switch > VLANs section in the web interface.
2. Define VLAN IDs and assign them to desired ports.
3. Use Port Isolation to further control communication between VLANs.
4. Save the configuration and reboot if necessary.

This ensures proper traffic segmentation and adds a layer of security without needing complex firewall rules.

Use Case Spotlight: Using CSS326 in a 10G NAS Setup

Do you run a media production house or backup-heavy office? Pair the CSS326-24G-2S+RM with a 10G-capable NAS using SFP+ modules and experience ultra-fast backup or file access.

Use the 24 Gigabit ports for client machines and the 10G SFP+ for connecting your storage. You get high-speed access, traffic isolation, and a quiet working environment.

Why MikroTik CSS326-24G-2S+RM Stands Out

If you’re Googling:

• MikroTik CSS326-24G-2S+RM for specs and use cases

• Best Price CSS326-24G-2S+RM for buying decision

• Best router CSS326-24G-2S+RM for clarification on function

This guide answers it all and shows why the CSS326-24G-2S+RM is among the best choices for a high-density, low-cost, and easy-to-manage switch.

Full Technical Specifications Table

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a budget-friendly, quiet, and feature-rich switch for your growing network, the MikroTik CSS326-24G-2S+RM is a phenomenal pick. It blends the core essentials of switching performance with the simplicity of web-based management. Whether you’re aiming for the Best Price CSS326-24G-2S+RM or just want to make sure you’re choosing the Best router CSS326-24G-2S+RM (spoiler: it’s a switch), this model delivers value far above its price tag.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

About MikroTik CSS326-24G-2S+RM

Is the MikroTik CSS326-24G-2S+RM a router or a switch?

The MikroTik CSS326-24G-2S+RM is a managed Layer 2 switch, not a router. Although it supports dual-boot with RouterOS, it’s primarily designed for switching tasks such as VLAN configuration, port isolation, and link aggregation—not routing between networks. If you’re searching for the Best router CSS326-24G-2S+RM, remember that this model is a switch best used in access or aggregation layers.

 What’s the difference between CSS and CRS series in MikroTik?

The CSS series (Cloud Smart Switch) runs on SwOS, optimized for simple Layer 2 management via a web GUI. The CRS series (Cloud Router Switch) supports RouterOS, offering advanced Layer 3 capabilities like routing, firewall, and scripting.
If you want simple, fast, and affordable switching, go with CSS326. For more advanced features, look at CRS models.

Can I use MikroTik CSS326-24G-2S+RM for 10G networking?

Yes! The 2 SFP+ ports on the CSS326 support 10 Gigabit SFP+ modules, making it perfect for uplinking to a core switch, NAS, or 10G server. This is one of the most affordable ways to add 10G to your network—making it truly the Best Price CSS326-24G-2S+RM switch for 10G on a budget.

Does CSS326-24G-2S+RM support VLANs?

Absolutely. It supports IEEE 802.1Q VLAN tagging, allowing you to create multiple isolated network segments on the same physical hardware—ideal for offices, hotels, or shared networks.

Is it noisy? Does it have a fan?

No fans, no noise. The CSS326-24G-2S+RM is completely silent thanks to its passive cooling system. It’s great for environments where noise matters—like offices, studios, or home labs.

 What kind of power input does it use?

It has an integrated power supply with standard 100-240V AC input. No external adapter is needed.

Can I manage the switch from CLI (command-line interface)?

Not directly with SwOS. It uses a web-based GUI only. If you need CLI access, consider CRS models with RouterOS.