Managed Service Providers (MSPs)  require solutions that are reliable, affordable, and versatile enough to serve diverse deployment scenarios, from powering wireless networks and security systems to connecting remote offices and small business infrastructures. The MikroTik CRS112-8P-4S-IN is an intelligently designed PoE switch that combines switching power, routing intelligence, and fiber flexibility in one compact chassis.

The MikroTik CRS112-8P-4S-IN switch is engineered with MSPs in mind, professionals who build networks for schools, offices, hotels, retail stores, industrial yards, and more. The following sections will outline how the MikroTik CRS112-8P-4S-IN makes integration simpler, smarter, and more cost-effective for modern networking demands.

Key Features & Real-World Benefits for MSPs and Installers

PoE Flexibility Without the Complexity

The MikroTik CRS112‑8P‑4S‑IN offers 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports with auto-sensing PoE-Out, supporting both 802.3af/at and 24 V passive PoE.

• Supports 802.3af/at (PoE/PoE+) and 24V passive PoE.
• Automatically detects the required power type when 48–57V DC is supplied. 
• Smart PoE management: Enable/disable power per port via RouterOS or SwitchOS

MSPs can power a mix of IP cameras, wireless access points, VoIP phones, and more, directly through Ethernet, simplifying installation and reducing the need for separate power supplies.
 

Fiber-Ready for Smart Uplinks

With 4 dedicated SFP ports, the MikroTik CRS112‑8P‑4S‑IN seamlessly connects to fiber backbones, core switches, or long-distance links — making it ideal for MSPs managing multi-site rollouts, campus environments, or mixed copper-fiber networks.

• Provides optical fiber connectivity at up to 1 Gbps.
• Keep your PoE ports free for edge devices
• Use SFP for uplinks, backbone aggregation, or future expansion

Ideal for sites where wired backhaul needs to extend over long distances — e.g., inter-building links in a campus or hotel — while offering noise-free transmission.
 

12 Independent Switching Ports

• All 12 ports (8 copper + 4 fiber) are independently configurable.

This provides greater design flexibility when segmenting networks or applying routing/switching functions as needed.
 

Total Power Budget Up to 160W

• When supplied with the right voltage, the switch can deliver up to 1A per port (18–28V) or 450mA (48–57V) with a total PoE budget of 2.8A at 24V or 1.4A at 48V.

This feature enables the MikroTik CRS112-8P-4S-IN switch to power multiple devices without needing external PoE injectors or switches.
 

RouterOS-Level Control for Advanced Services

This isn’t just a dumb switch — the MikroTik CRS112‑8P‑4S‑IN is powered by RouterOS (Level 5 license), giving MSPs full access to MikroTik's feature-rich networking stack:

• VLAN tagging, port isolation, static LAGs, firewalling, ACLs
• Port mirroring and traffic inspection for diagnostics
• Use SwitchOS mode for plug-and-play clients, or RouterOS mode for advanced SLAs

This dual-mode OS lets you customize per client — simple for SMEs, advanced for demanding industrial clients — all with the same hardware.

Non-blocking Switching Performance

• Switching capacity: 24 Gbps
• Forwarding rate: 17.8 Mpps

This enables the MikroTik CRS112-8P-4S-IN to deliver solid performance for small to mid-sized networks without throughput bottlenecks.
 

Static Link Aggregation and Port Security

• This feature aggregates ports for higher bandwidth or redundancy.
• It also secures ports against unauthorized access or loops.

This boosts network resilience in business-critical deployments such as retail PoS networks or security backbones.
 

Fanless, Desktop/Rackmount Design

• Silent operation with passive cooling, compact metal casing (200 x 142 x 44 mm). Install it in client offices, back rooms, or reception areas without worrying about noise or dust-sensitive environments
• Includes rackmount ears and screws.
• Wide Operating Temperature - Rated from –20°C to +60°C, it handles non-ideal conditions like dusty closets, warm server cabinets, or lightly shielded outdoor enclosures.

This makes the MikroTik CRS112-8P-4S-IN suitable for both desktop and 1U rack deployments, whether in server closets or workstations.

Ideal Use Cases for MSPs

1. Hospitality Networks

Hotels, guesthouses, and hostels demand clean, quiet hardware that can power ceiling-mounted access points, cameras, and smart TVs from hidden locations.

The MikroTik CRS112-8P-4S-IN is the ideal solution due to:

• Fanless operation = zero noise complaints.
• Compact enough to mount behind reception desks, in closets, or even under furniture.
• Easily powers APs and cameras using the built-in PoE ports.
• VLANs ensure guests, admin staff, and security systems stay securely separated.

2. Managed WiFi for Retail Stores & SMBs

Small businesses need affordable, professional-grade Wi-Fi and surveillance — but they often lack an IT staff or sufficient rack space.

With the MikroTik CRS112-8P-4S-IN, they can:

• Provide data and power for up to 8 APs or cameras using one device.
• Easily deploy MikroTik CAPsMAN or other controller-based Wi-Fi management.
• Use SFP uplinks to connect to a fiber drop or upstream router.
• Monitor, diagnose, and update remotely via RouterOS.

MSPs can deliver enterprise-like Wi-Fi as a managed monthly service (Wi-Fi-as-a-Service) at a competitive price point.
 

3. Remote and Industrial Sites

MSPs supporting utility, mining, agriculture, or logistics clients need rugged, reliable switches that can power edge devices far from HQ.

The MikroTik CRS112-8P-4S-IN is the perfect fit because:

• Wide input voltage range and extended temperature tolerance.
• Fanless design reduces mechanical failure risk.
• Supports wired backhaul via fiber (SFP) while powering sensors, cameras, or wireless links.
• Easy to deploy in roadside cabinets, equipment shacks, or control rooms.

This solution is great for solar farms, fuel depots, construction sites, logistics hubs.
 

4. Branch Office Rollouts

Rolling out networks across multiple remote offices or retail branches requires cost-effective, repeatable solutions that are easy to manage remotely and install without specialized infrastructure.

The MikroTik CRS112-8P-4S-IN solves this by:

• Plug-and-play PoE for access points, VoIP phones, and printers.
• SFP uplinks connect cleanly to fiber backbones or VPN routers.
• Centralized control via RouterOS or cloud-based management (with tools like The Dude or custom scripting).
• Low-power, silent operation - no need for dedicated server rooms.
   

One Switch, Many Roles!

Compact, versatile, and feature-rich, the MikroTik CRS112-8P-4S-IN switch excels in deployments where MSPs must strike a balance between cost, performance, and flexibility. 

Ready to deploy the MikroTik CRS112-8P-4S-IN in your network? Contact us today for more information or to make your purchase.