logo
banner2 image
MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM: The Ultimate Switch for ISPs, System Integrators, and Large Enterprises
Posted: Wed Feb 05 2025

Internet Service Providers (ISPs), System Integrators, and Large Enterprises demand networking solutions that are not only high-performing but also scalable, reliable, and cost-effective. MikroTik, a trusted name in the networking industry, has consistently delivered products that meet these needs. One such product is the MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM, a powerful and versatile switch designed to handle the most demanding networking environments. In this article, we’ll explore how the CRS326-24S+2Q+RM addresses the unique requirements of ISPs, System Integrators, and Large Enterprises.


MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM Overview 

The MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM is a Cloud Router Switch from MikroTik’s CRS series. It is a Layer 3 switch that combines high-speed connectivity with advanced routing and switching capabilities. This router switch model is particularly notable for its 24 SFP+ ports and 2 QSFP+ ports, making it an ideal choice for high-density, high-speed networking environments.

MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM Key Specifications:

  1. 24 x SFP+ ports: Each port supports 10 Gbps, perfect for high-speed data transfer.
  2. 2 x QSFP+ ports: These ports support 40 Gbps each, enabling ultra-high-speed uplinks or aggregation.
  3. Switching capacity: 560 Gbps, ensuring smooth and efficient data flow.
  4. Layer 3 hardware routing: Enables advanced routing capabilities directly on the switch.
  5. Dual power inputs: Provides redundancy and reliability.
  6. Rack-mountable design: Fits neatly into standard 19-inch racks.
  7. RouterOS: Powered by MikroTik’s robust operating system, offering a wide range of networking features.

MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM

Key Features and Benefits for ISPs, System Integrators, and Large Enterprises

The following features of the MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM are ideal for ISPs, System Integrators, and Large Enterprises:

1. High-Speed Connectivity for Demanding Workloads

For ISPs, delivering high-speed internet and services to customers is critical. The CRS326-24S+2Q+RM’s 24 SFP+ switch allows ISPs to connect multiple customers or devices at 10 Gbps speeds, ensuring seamless performance even during peak usage. The 2 QSFP+ ports provide 40 Gbps uplinks, enabling ISPs to aggregate traffic and connect to core networks without bottlenecks.

For System Integrators, the switch’s high-speed ports make it an excellent choice for building robust networks for clients, whether for data centers, enterprise networks, or cloud infrastructure. Large Enterprises can leverage the switch’s speed to support bandwidth-intensive applications like video conferencing, large-scale data transfers, and real-time analytics.

2. Layer 3 Hardware Routing for Advanced Networking

The MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM router switch supports Layer 3 hardware routing, making it a versatile solution for ISPs, System Integrators, and Large Enterprises. ISPs can use the switch to implement advanced routing protocols, manage IP addresses, and segment networks using VLANs. System Integrators can simplify network designs by consolidating routing and switching functions into a single device. Large Enterprises can benefit from improved network performance and reduced latency by handling routing at the switch level.

3. Scalability and Flexibility for Growing Networks

The MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM switch is designed to scale with your needs. For ISPs, the switch’s high port density and support for SFP+ and QSFP+ modules allow for flexible configurations, whether connecting customers, aggregating traffic, or expanding network capacity. System Integrators can use the switch to build future-proof networks that can easily adapt to evolving client requirements. Large Enterprises can deploy the switch in data centers or as part of their core network infrastructure, knowing it can handle growing traffic demands.

4. Robust Management with RouterOS

The CRS326-24S+2Q+RM router switch runs on MikroTik’s RouterOS, a powerful and versatile operating system with a wide range of networking features. ISPs can use RouterOS to configure VLANs, set up firewalls, monitor traffic, and even create VPNs for secure customer connections. System Integrators can leverage RouterOS to customize networks for clients, while Large Enterprises can use it to implement advanced security and monitoring features.

The CRS326-24S+2Q+RM router switch also supports MikroTik’s SwOS, a simplified operating system for basic switching tasks, making it easy to deploy and manage in less complex environments.

5. Redundancy and Reliability for Mission-Critical Networks

For ISPs, network uptime is crucial. The MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM’s dual power inputs ensure that the switch remains operational even if one power source fails, reducing the risk of downtime. System Integrators can offer clients a reliable solution that minimizes disruptions, while Large Enterprises can use the switch to build resilient networks that support critical business operations.

6. Compact and Energy-Efficient Design

The MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM’s 1U rack-mountable design makes it easy to integrate into existing network setups, whether in an ISP’s data center, a System Integrator’s client site, or a Large Enterprise’s server room. Its low power consumption helps reduce operational costs, making it a cost-effective with a high performance choice for organizations looking to optimize their energy usage.

MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM

MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM Use Cases

If you are working in a high-traffic data environment – like providing Internet access or a data centre – the MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM router switch is an ideal choice for your setup. It’s highly beneficial to the following particular user groups:

1. ISPs: Delivering High-Speed Services

The MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM router switch is an excellent choice for ISPs looking to deliver high-speed internet and other services to their customers. Its high port density and support for 10 Gbps and 40 Gbps connections make it ideal for aggregating customer traffic, connecting to core networks, and scaling services as demand grows.

2. System Integrators: Building Future-Proof Networks

System Integrators can use the MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM router switch to build robust, scalable networks for their clients. Whether deploying the switch in a data center, enterprise network, or cloud infrastructure, System Integrators can rely on its advanced features and flexibility to meet client needs.

3. Large Enterprises: Supporting High-Performance Applications

Large Enterprises can deploy the MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM to support bandwidth-intensive applications like video conferencing, large-scale data transfers, and real-time analytics. Its Layer 3 routing capabilities and high-speed ports ensure that the network can handle demanding workloads without compromising performance.

Why you should consider the MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM

The MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM router switch is a powerful and versatile solution for the unique needs of ISPs, System Integrators, and large enterprises. Its high-speed connectivity, advanced routing capabilities, and robust management features are ideal for delivering high-performance networking in demanding environments.

Whether you’re an ISP looking to scale your services, a System Integrator building future-proof networks, or a Large Enterprise supporting critical applications, the CRS326-24S+2Q+RM offers the performance, reliability, and flexibility you need.

Ready to deploy the MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM in your network? Contact us today for more information or to make your purchase


Related Articles


banner2 image

ePMP 3000 - 5X Performance with Gen3 Technology

Cambium Networks ePMP 3000 Wireless service providers and enterprises need reliable, high-quality broadband connectivity that can be rapidly deployed and expanded.
banner2 image

Africa Tech Festival Displays Strides in Connectivity and Telecommunications Infrastructure across Africa

Africa Tech Festival is where innovation and inspiration converge to shape the future of Africa's tech industry. As Optace Networks, we were in attendance to share in our commitment to inclusivity and technological empowerment in Africa.
banner2 image

Cambium Networks ePMP Force 425 - The Industry’s First Point-to-Point Solution Based on 802.11ax

Cambium Networks ePMP Force 425 - The Industry’s First Point-to-Point Solution Based on 802.11ax, Delivering up to 1 Gbps Capacity
banner2 image

The Power of OFDMA in Wireless Broadband

In this article, we delve into the principles of OFDMA, the defining principle of the 802.11ax standard, its applications, and its impact on wireless broadband.

© 2025 PoweredbyOptace Networks Limited. All Rights Reserved.