What is the CRS317-1G-16S+RM?

The CRS317-1G-16S+RM is a rack-mountable Layer 3 managed switch that offers 16 SFP+ ports for 10GbE connectivity and a dedicated 1GbE copper port for management. It uses a next-generation switching chip that guarantees wire-speed performance on all 10GbE ports regardless of Ethernet frame size. Its distinguishing feature is the ability to run both RouterOS and SwOS, allowing the administrator to choose the operating environment based on specific network needs or a preference for the Winbox interface.

What are the main technical specifications?

  • CPU: Dual Core 800 MHz (98DX8216B0)
  • RAM: 1 GB
  • Storage: 16 MB Flash
  • Ports: 16 x SFP+ (supports 1.25 Gb SFP and 10 Gb SFP+ modules, not included), 1 x Gigabit Ethernet copper
  • Power: Redundant dual power supply, AC 100-240 V input
  • Maximum power consumption: 44 W
  • Cooling: Passive with automatic active fans for high temperatures
  • Operating temperature: From -20 to +60 °C
  • Operating system: RouterOS or SwitchOS (SwOS)
  • Dimensions: 443 x 224 x 44 mm
  • Advanced features: MSTP, RSTP, LACP, IEEE 802.1Q VLANs (up to 4K simultaneous), ACLs, MPLS hardware forwarding, 128K entry host table

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

This switch is ideal for network administrators and WISPs who need to aggregate 10GbE traffic with advanced routing features or, conversely, prefer a simpler switch-only interface. The redundant dual power supply and resistance to temperatures up to +60 °C make it suitable for installations in outdoor communication cabinets or industrial environments where reliability is critical. The ability to switch from RouterOS to SwOS without additional hardware offers rare flexibility in this price range, allowing you to adapt to various deployment scenarios.

What to know before choosing it?

It is important to note that SFP/SFP+ modules are not included in the package and must be purchased separately. The device supports both passive and active cooling, but the fans activate automatically only when thermal necessity arises. The license is level 6, which limits some advanced RouterOS features compared to higher-level licenses. Additionally, although it offers wire-speed performance, the 128K entry host table could be a limitation for networks with an extremely high number of dynamic devices.

Frequently asked questions

Does the CRS317-1G-16S+RM support dual boot between RouterOS and SwOS?

Yes, the MikroTik CRS317-1G-16S+RM allows you to choose which operating system to boot, either RouterOS or SwOS. This selection can be made from RouterOS, from SwOS, or from the RouterBOOT loader settings, offering maximum operational flexibility.

Which optical modules are compatible with the SFP+ ports of the CRS317-1G-16S+RM?

The 16 SFP+ ports on the CRS317-1G-16S+RM support both 1.25 Gb SFP modules and 10 Gb SFP+ modules. The modules are not included in the package and must be selected based on distance requirements and fiber type.

Is the CRS317-1G-16S+RM suitable for outdoor installations?

The MikroTik CRS317-1G-16S+RM is designed to operate in environments with temperatures up to +60 °C, making it suitable for outdoor communication cabinets. The passive cooling system with automatic fans helps keep the internal temperature under control in these conditions.

Which spanning tree protocols does the CRS317-1G-16S+RM support?

The device supports both the Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP) and the Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol (MSTP), both implemented at the hardware level to ensure protection and professional performance in the network.

What is the maximum power consumption of the CRS317-1G-16S+RM?

The maximum power consumption of the MikroTik CRS317-1G-16S+RM is 44 W. It features redundant dual power supplies to ensure operational continuity in case of a failure in one of the two power sources.

Learn more on the MikroTik website: CRS317-1G-16S+RM page and official datasheet (PDF).