What is the MikroTik CRS354-48G-4S+2Q+RM?

The MikroTik CRS354-48G-4S+2Q+RM is a rackmount network switch designed to handle demanding, high-traffic network infrastructures. It integrates a 650 MHz QCA9531 CPU and 128 MB of RAM, running RouterOS with a level 5 license. The device combines RJ45 ports for traditional copper connectivity with SFP+ and QSFP+ optical slots, allowing you to connect 10 Gbps and 40 Gbps devices directly to the switch without the need for external aggregators.

What are the main technical features?

The key specifications of the MikroTik CRS354-48G-4S+2Q+RM include:

  • Ethernet ports: 48 1 GbE RJ45 ports, 4 SFP+ 10G ports, and 2 QSFP+ 40G ports.
  • Switching performance: 336 Gbps non-blocking Layer 1 capacity and 168 Gbps non-blocking Layer 1 throughput.
  • Forwarding rate: Up to 235 Mpps (Million packets per second).
  • Operating system: RouterOS with a level 5 license.
  • Memory and storage: 128 MB of RAM and 32 MB of flash.
  • Power supply: Redundant power supply supported, 100-240 V AC input.
  • Maximum power consumption: 60 W.
  • Dimensions: 297 x 443 x 44 mm.
  • Serial port: RJ45 for local configuration.
  • Operating temperature: From -20°C to +60°C.

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

This switch is suitable for network administrators and WISPs who need a central aggregation point with high-density Gigabit ports and high-speed uplinks. It is particularly useful in data centers, corporate offices, or network nodes where you need to connect servers, core switches, or other devices via 10G or 40G fiber. The presence of RouterOS allows you to implement advanced features such as routing, firewalling, and QoS directly on the switch, reducing the need for separate devices for traffic management.

What to know before choosing it?

It is important to consider that, although it is a high-performance switch, the integrated CPU has limitations in Layer 3 performance when using many filter rules or queues. Tests show that adding 25 IP filter rules significantly reduces throughput compared to the fast path. Additionally, the power supply requires a standard AC power supply (100-240 V) and supports redundancy, but PoE (Power over Ethernet) compatibility is not specified, so it is not suitable for directly powering access points or IP phones without an external injector.

Frequently asked questions

Does the MikroTik CRS354-48G-4S+2Q+RM support PoE?

The provided texts do not indicate support for Power over Ethernet (PoE). The switch is powered via a 100-240 V AC power supply and does not mention the ability to deliver power over the RJ45 ports.

What is the switching capacity of the MikroTik CRS354-48G-4S+2Q+RM?

The non-blocking Layer 1 switching capacity of the MikroTik CRS354-48G-4S+2Q+RM is 336 Gbps, while the non-blocking Layer 1 throughput is 168 Gbps.

What type of operating system does the MikroTik CRS354-48G-4S+2Q+RM use?

The MikroTik CRS354-48G-4S+2Q+RM runs RouterOS with a level 5 license, which allows the use of advanced routing and network management features.

What is the maximum power consumption of the MikroTik CRS354-48G-4S+2Q+RM?

The maximum power consumption of the MikroTik CRS354-48G-4S+2Q+RM is 60 W, with AC power input from 100 to 240 V and support for redundant power supplies.

Learn more on the MikroTik website: CRS354-48G-4S+2Q+RM page and official datasheet (PDF).