What is the CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM?

The CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM is an enterprise-grade switch that integrates advanced processing capabilities to handle routing and security protocols directly on the device. Unlike purely Layer 2 switches, this model supports OSPF, BGP, management VPNs, and ACLs thanks to its powerful ARM CPU. It is designed to replace multiple devices in environments such as multimedia studios or data centers where high-speed port density is critical.

What are the main technical features?

The key specifications listed in the official documentation include:

  • CPU: Quad-Core AL52400 at 2 GHz (64-bit ARM architecture).
  • Memory: 4 GB of DDR4 RAM and 128 MB of NAND storage.
  • Ethernet ports:
  • 16 QSFP28 100G ports (support speeds up to 100G, 50G, 40G, 25G, 10G, 2.5G, and 1G depending on the module).
  • 4 SFP28 25G ports (support speeds up to 25G, 10G, 2.5G, and 1G).
  • 2 10G Ethernet ports (support speeds up to 10G, 1G, 100M, and 10M).
  • Switching chip: Marvell 98CX8410.
  • Operating system: RouterOS v7 with a Level 5 license.
  • Power supply: Two hot-swap power supplies included, 100-240 V AC input.
  • Power consumption: Maximum 150 W (220 W with both power supplies inserted).
  • Dimensions: 443 x 367 x 44 mm.
  • Operating temperature: From -20°C to +50°C.

Who is it for and in which scenarios does it make sense?

This switch is intended for network administrators managing data centers, complex enterprise networks, or high-density multimedia studios. It is the appropriate choice when you need to aggregate 100G and 25G traffic on a single device without resorting to multiple appliances. The presence of a powerful CPU also makes it suitable for those who want to run offloaded L3 functions and dynamic routing protocols directly on the switch, reducing reliance on separate routers for these tasks.

What to know before choosing it?

It is fundamental to note that the CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM operates exclusively with RouterOS v7 and requires a Level 5 license. Power is supplied via two hot-swap power supplies included in the box, but it is also compatible with separately purchased -48V DC telecom power supplies. Maximum power consumption can reach 220 W if both power supplies are active, a figure to consider when planning the rack’s electrical infrastructure. Additionally, the ports support various speeds depending on the optical modules inserted, so you must verify transceiver compatibility with the QSFP28 and SFP28 port specifications.

Frequently asked questions

Does the MikroTik CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM support L3 routing?

Yes, the MikroTik CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM supports offloaded L3 routing thanks to the quad-core ARM CPU. You can run protocols such as OSPF and BGP directly on the switch, as well as manage ACLs and management VPNs.

How many power supplies are included with the MikroTik CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM?

The MikroTik CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM includes two hot-swap power supplies in the standard package. This design ensures redundancy and allows for hot-swapping without service interruption.

What type of ports does the MikroTik CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM offer?

The MikroTik CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM features 16 100G QSFP28 ports, 4 25G SFP28 ports, and 2 10G Ethernet ports. The ports support various speeds depending on the optical modules used, ranging from 1G to 100G.

Does the MikroTik CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM work with RouterOS v6?

No, the MikroTik CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM is designed to work exclusively with RouterOS v7. The documentation specifies that the supported operating system is version 7 with a level 5 license.

Learn more on the MikroTik website: CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM page and official datasheet (PDF).