What is the MikroTik CRS518-16XS-2XQ-RM?

It is a 100 Gigabit switch designed for environments where the port density of the previous model, the CRS504, is not sufficient. The device integrates 16 25G SFP28 ports and 2 100G QSFP28 ports, offering a scalable solution for traffic distribution. Its architecture supports advanced features such as L3 routing with hardware offloading, ACLs, MLAG, and Jumbo frames, managed by the Marvell Prestera Aldrin2 switching chip (model 98DX8525).

What are the main technical specifications?

The key specifications of the MikroTik CRS518-16XS-2XQ-RM include:

  • Switching chip: Marvell Prestera Aldrin2 (98DX8525)
  • CPU: QCA9531 at 650 MHz, MIPSBE architecture, 1 core
  • Memory: 64 MB DDR2 RAM and 16 MB Flash
  • Ports: 16x SFP28 (25G), 2x QSFP28 (100G), 1x 100M Ethernet, 1x USB Type A
  • Switching capacity: 1.2 Tbps
  • Throughput: 600 Gbps
  • Forwarding rate: Up to 600 Mpps
  • Power supply: 2 AC inputs (100-240V), hot-swappable power supplies
  • Power consumption: Max 45 W without accessories, max 77 W with all accessories connected
  • Dimensions: 443 x 265 x 44.5 mm
  • Operating system: RouterOS v7 only
  • Operating temperature: From -40°C to +70°C

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

This switch is ideal for network administrators who need a high-performance distribution node in data centers or complex enterprise networks. It is particularly suitable for configurations where it connects directly to higher-level routers (such as the CCR2216) and must manage traffic towards access devices, servers, and network policies. The backward compatibility of the SFP28 ports with 10G and 1G SFP modules allows mixing different speeds based on network requirements.

What to know before choosing it?

You must consider that the maximum power consumption reaches 77 W when all accessories are active, a value higher than more compact models like the CRS504. The device exclusively supports version 7 of RouterOS, so it is not compatible with previous versions. Additionally, the presence of redundant hot-swappable power supplies and fans requires adequate space in the rack to ensure proper ventilation and access to the modules for maintenance.

Frequently asked questions

Does the MikroTik CRS518-16XS-2XQ-RM support hardware offloaded L3 routing?

Yes, the MikroTik CRS518-16XS-2XQ-RM supports L3 routing with hardware offloading thanks to the Marvell Prestera Aldrin2 chip. This feature allows managing routing traffic directly at the hardware level, improving overall network performance.

What ports are available on the MikroTik CRS518-16XS-2XQ-RM?

The device features 16 25 Gigabit SFP28 ports, 2 100 Gigabit QSFP28 ports, one 100M Ethernet port, and one USB Type A port. The SFP28 ports are backward compatible with 10G and 1G SFP modules.

Does the MikroTik CRS518-16XS-2XQ-RM have redundant power supplies?

Yes, the MikroTik CRS518-16XS-2XQ-RM is equipped with two hot-swappable AC power supplies. This allows you to replace a faulty power supply without interrupting the switch’s power, ensuring service continuity.

What is the maximum power consumption of the MikroTik CRS518-16XS-2XQ-RM?

The maximum power consumption of the MikroTik CRS518-16XS-2XQ-RM is 77 W when all accessories are connected. Without accessories, the maximum board consumption is 45 W.

Learn more on the MikroTik website: CRS518-16XS-2XQ-RM page and official datasheet (PDF).