MikroTik CRS326-4C+20G+2Q+RM Switch

MikroTik CRS3264C+20G+2Q+RM Switch: HighPerformance Backbone for Modern Networks

The MikroTik CRS3264C+20G+2Q+RM Switch is a high capacity, rack mountready solution engineered for demanding enterprise and MRHPEgrade networks. Designed with performance, flexibility, and futureproofing in mind, this switch balances robust Gigabit connectivity, fiber uplinks, and ultrafast 40G QSFP+ interfaces.

At the heart of theMikroTik CRS326-4C+20G+2Q+RM Switch a dualcore ARM CPU running at 800 MHz, supported by Mikrotik 512 MB RAM and 16 MB flash storage, delivering a powerful platform for both routing and switching tasks. Its dualboot feature enables administrators to select between RouterOS for advanced Layer 3 routing and management, or SwitchOS for a streamlined Layer 2 switching experience. This versatility makes the CRS326 suitable for a broad spectrum of network architectures, from MRHPE labs to enterprise core deployments.

The switch boasts 20 Gigabit Ethernet ports, 4 combo RJ45/SFP ports, and 2 QSFP+ 40G ports, providing extensive flexibility for both copper and fiber networks. With a switching capacity of 240 Gbps and wirespeed forwarding on all ports, it can handle heavy traffic loads without bottlenecks, ensuring reliability and low latency. Dual redundant AC power supplies enhance uptime, while its standard 1U rackmount form factor allows seamless integration into existing network racks.

Operating across a wide temperature range of 20°C to +60°C, the CRS326 is robust enough for demanding data centers and branch offices alike, offering both stability and high performance in compact, energy efficient packaging.

Practical Applications

The MikroTik CRS326-4C+20G+2Q+RM Switch excels in scenarios where network demands are high and MRHPE grade performance is required:

• Enterprise Core Switches: Acts as the central backbone for offices, data centers, and campus networks, aggregating traffic from multiple access switches.
• High Density Workgroups: Supports numerous endpoints, including workstations, servers, and IP phones, without compromise in speed or reliability.
• Fiber Intensive Networks: With combo RJ45/SFP ports, it seamlessly integrates fiber uplinks for long distance, highspeed connectivity.
• Data Center Interconnects: 40G QSFP+ uplinks ensure minimal latency and maximum throughput between racks and core infrastructure.
• VLAN Rich Environments: Its dual boot OS and robust switching features support extensive VLAN segmentation, QoS, and traffic management.

Whether deployed in enterprise environments, MRHPE labs, or mixed copper/fiber networks, the CRS326 provides scalable performance and reliable connectivity.

Port Configuration and Connectivity of MikroTik CRS3264C+20G+2Q+RM Switch

Connectivity is at the core of the MikroTik CRS326-4C+20G+2Q+RM Switch’s design. The port layout balances accessibility and performance:

• 20 × Gigabit Ethernet Ports: Ideal for access layer devices, these ports provide highspeed, low latency connectivity for endusers and servers.
• 4 × Combo RJ45/SFP Ports: Each port can operate either as a standard RJ45 or SFP slot, offering flexible deployment for copper or fiber networks.
• 2 × QSFP+ 40G Ports: Designed for ultrafast uplinks or interconnects between core switches, ensuring backbone scalability.
• Dual Redundant AC Power Inputs: Enhances uptime and reliability, critical for enterprise or MRHPE grade network deployments.

The combination of copper, fiber, and highspeed uplinks allows seamless integration into heterogeneous network infrastructures while maintaining high performance across all devices.

Ideal for VLANRich Environments of MikroTik CRS3264C+20G+2Q+RM Switch

VLAN configuration flexibility is a key strength of the MikroTik CRS326-4C+20G+2Q+RM Switch . Administrators can create extensive Layer 2 and Layer 3 segmentation to:

• Isolate traffic for security: Separate sensitive systems, guest networks, and IoT devices.
• Enhance network performance: Reduce broadcast traffic and optimize bandwidth allocation.
• Simplify management: Logical separation allows efficient control over multiple departments or services.

Whether running RouterOS or SwitchOS, the CRS326 provides intuitive tools to manage VLANs, apply ACLs, and prioritize traffic efficiently, making it suitable for MRHPE labs, enterprise branches, and data centers.

FutureProof Backbone with 40G Uplinks of MikroTik CRS3264C+20G+2Q+RM Switch

The MikroTik CRS326-4C+20G+2Q+RM Switch ports ensure the CRS326 is ready for next generation network demands. Key benefits include:

• Highspeed uplinks between core switches to prevent bottlenecks in high traffic environments.
• Scalable infrastructure, supporting future expansion without replacing the existing hardware.
• Data center interconnectivity, linking multiple racks or server clusters with minimal latency.

This switch acts not only as a highperformance access and aggregation device but also as a futureproof backbone capable of supporting evolving MRHPE network architectures.

Comparison with Similar MikroTik Models

The CRS326 sits between smaller access switches and ultra high density aggregation devices, offering a balanced solution for MRHPE environments needing Gigabit access with scalable 40G uplinks.

Technical Specifications Table

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can the CRS3264C+20G+2Q+RM handle MRHPEgrade lab environments?

Yes, its dualcore CPU, 512 MB RAM, and dualboot OS make it ideal for MRHPE labs and enterprise deployments.

2. Are the QSFP+ ports backward compatible with 10G or 25G modules?

Yes, QSFP+ ports typically support breakout modules for 10G/25G connectivity, ensuring flexible uplink configurations.

3. Can this switch be powered by redundant AC inputs?

Yes, dual redundant AC power supplies enhance uptime and network reliability.

4. Does it support VLANs and advanced Layer 3 features?

Absolutely. RouterOS provides full Layer 3 routing, VLAN segmentation, ACLs, and QoS capabilities.

5. Is the switch suitable for highdensity backbone environments?

Yes. Its combination of 20 Gigabit ports, 4 SFP, and 2 × 40G QSFP+ uplinks make it a robust backbone solution.