What is the CRS418-8P-8G-2S+RM?

The CRS418-8P-8G-2S+RM is a Layer 3 switch with hardware offload routing capabilities, designed for hybrid L2/L3 environments. Unlike purely Layer 2 switches, this device can act as an internet gateway, firewall, and CAPsMAN controller thanks to its 2.2 GHz quad-core ARM CPU. The product page describes it as a multitasking device capable of handling real routing workloads, reducing network infrastructure complexity.

What are the main technical features?

The key specifications listed in the MikroTik datasheet include:

  • CPU: Quad-Core IPQ-8072 at 2208 MHz (64-bit ARM architecture).
  • RAM and Storage: 1 GB DDR3L and 128 MB NAND.
  • Ethernet Ports: 17 Gigabit ports (8 of which have PoE-out) and 2 10G SFP+ slots.
  • PoE Power: 802.3af/at standard and 24V Passive PoE-out, with a maximum total power of 150 W.
  • Additional Connectivity: 1 USB 3.0 Type A port and a Gigabit management port connected directly to the CPU.
  • Operating System: RouterOS v7 with a level 5 license.
  • Power Supply: Redundant dual AC power supply (100-240 V).
  • Dimensions: 1U rackmount format (443 x 230 x 44 mm).

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

This device is ideal for network administrators who need to manage medium-sized offices or WISP sites where rack space is limited. It makes sense to choose it when you need to power access points and CCTV cameras via PoE, connect high-speed NAS servers through the 10G SFP+ uplinks, and manage routing and VLAN segmentation in a single appliance. It is particularly suitable for those who want to eliminate the “jungle” of separate devices (router, switch, firewall) by consolidating everything into a single unit.

What to know before choosing it?

It is important to consider that, despite the high computing power for a switch, the RAM is limited to 1 GB. This could be a constraint if you plan extremely complex routing configurations or very large routing tables. Additionally, the total PoE power is 150 W, so you must ensure that the overall load of powered devices does not exceed this limit. The device requires software configuration via RouterOS v7, assuming skills in managing firewalls, ACLs, and VLANs.

Frequently asked questions

Can the CRS418-8P-8G-2S+RM replace a traditional router?

Yes, the MikroTik CRS418-8P-8G-2S+RM is designed to replace most routers for small and medium-sized offices. Thanks to the quad-core CPU and L3 hardware offload, it can handle internet gateway, firewall, and inter-VLAN routing functions.

How much PoE power does the CRS418-8P-8G-2S+RM provide?

The device offers a maximum total power of 150 W distributed across 8 PoE-out ports (Ether9 – Ether16). It supports 802.3af/at standards and 24V Passive PoE, making it suitable for powering access points and cameras.

Does the CRS418-8P-8G-2S+RM have fiber uplink ports?

Yes, the MikroTik CRS418-8P-8G-2S+RM is equipped with two 10G SFP+ slots. These high-speed uplinks are useful for connecting to fiber ISP networks, core switches, or high-performance storage servers.

What type of power supply does the CRS418-8P-8G-2S+RM use?

The device uses redundant AC power with two separate inputs (100-240 V). This configuration increases system reliability, as the network continues to operate even if one of the power supplies is interrupted.

Learn more on the MikroTik website: CRS418-8P-8G-2S+RM page and official datasheet (PDF).