Your Entry into the 10-Gbit World: Compact & Powerful
The MikroTik CRS305-1G-4S+IN is the answer to the growing demand for affordable 10-Gigabit connectivity. With four SFP+ Ports, it allows you to connect servers, NAS systems, and workstations with breathtaking speed. Forget bottlenecks during large file transfers or 4K video streaming. Thanks to its compact design and unbeatable price, it is the ideal 10GbE Switch Homelab candidate, but is also perfectly suited for small offices, agencies, and demanding home users who do not want to compromise on performance.
Flexibility that Inspires: RouterOS or SwOS?
What truly distinguishes this Switch is its unique dual-boot capability. You decide which operating system best suits your needs. For quick and easy use, you start SwOS – a pure, web-based operating system that focuses on the core functions of a Switch. Configure VLANs, monitor Ports – all done with a few clicks. However, if you need full control, you boot into RouterOS. This transforms the CRS305 into a powerful Layer-3 Switch with routing, firewall, VPN, and hundreds of other configuration options. One device, two worlds – maximum freedom for your Network.
Built for Professional Use: Silent & Reliable
Performance is nothing without reliability. MikroTik has encased the CRS305 in a robust metal housing that not only protects but also serves as a passive heatsink. The result: completely silent operation without annoying fans. This makes it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. The three independent power inputs – two DC jacks and PoE-in (802.3af/at) – offer redundancy that is exceptional in this price range and ensures uninterrupted operation of your Network. This high-quality Ethernet Switch is designed for continuous operation and won't let you down.
The Smart Choice for Your Network Upgrade
The CRS305-1G-4S+IN is designed as a pure Layer-2 Switch to ensure maximum performance on all Ports. While RouterOS theoretically allows routing at 10 Gbit/s, the CPU is the bottleneck for complex tasks like NAT. Use it as the core of your fast LAN and leave routing to a dedicated Router. In combination with suitable SFP / SFP\+ Modules or DAC Cables, you build an extremely powerful yet affordable Network setup that grows with your requirements. It is one of the best MikroTik Switches for entering the 10G league.
Strengths & Notes at a Glance
- Pro: Offers four 10-Gbit/s SFP+ Ports at an unbeatable price-performance ratio.
- Pro: The compact, fanless design ensures absolutely silent operation.
- Pro: Exceptional reliability through 3 power inputs (2x DC, 1x PoE-in).
- Pro: Dual-boot system (RouterOS/SwOS) offers maximum flexibility for beginners and professionals.
- Note: The CPU is too weak for demanding 10-Gbit/s routing (e.g., NAT); ideal as a Layer-2 Switch.
- Note: For full power redundancy, a second Power Supply must be purchased separately.
Specifications & Features
| Manufacturer: | MikroTik |
| Model: | Cloud Router Switch CRS305-1G-4S+IN |
| EAN: | 4752224002136 |
| Product Code: | CRS305-1G-4S+IN |
| Device Type: | Managed Layer-3 Switch |
| Architecture: | ARM 32bit |
| CPU Model: | Marvell 98DX3236 |
| CPU Core Count: | 2 |
| CPU Clock Speed: | 800 MHz |
| Switch Chip Model: | 98DX3236 (integrated) |
| RAM Size: | 512 MB |
| Storage Size: | 16 MB |
| Storage Type: | FLASH |
| SFP+ Ports: | 4 x 10 Gbit/s |
| SFP Compatibility: | Also supports 1.25 Gbit/s SFP Modules |
| Ethernet Ports: | 1 x 10/100/1000 Mbit/s Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45) |
| Non-Blocking Throughput: | 41 Gbit/s |
| Switching Capacity: | 82 Gbit/s |
| Forwarding Rate: | 61 Mpps |
| Operating System: | Dual Boot: RouterOS (Level 5 License) and SwOS |
| Standard IP Address: | 192.168.88.1 |
| Power Inputs: | 2 x DC jack, 1 x PoE-in |
| Supported Input Voltage: | 12 - 57 V (DC jack and PoE-in) |
| PoE-in Standard: | 802.3af/at and passive PoE |
| Max. Power Consumption (without Modules): | 10 W |
| Max. Power Consumption (with Modules): | 18 W |
| Included Power Supply: | 24 V, 0.8 A |
| Cooling: | Passive (fanless) |
| Casing: | Metal |
| Dimensions: | 141 x 115 x 28 mm |
| Operating Temperature (tested): | -40°C to 70°C |
| Certifications: | CE, EAC, ROHS |
| MTBF: | approx. 200,000 hours at 25°C |
| Special Features: | CPU Temperature Monitor |
Scope of Delivery
| 1 x MikroTik CRS305-1G-4S+IN |
| 1 x Power Supply (24 V, 0.8 A) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use the Gigabit Ethernet port as a regular network connection?
Yes, absolutely. Although often referred to as a management port, the 1 Gbps Ethernet port can be fully integrated into the Ethernet Switch configuration and used as a regular port for data traffic, for example, as an uplink to another Ethernet Switch.
What is the main difference between RouterOS and SwOS on this device?
SwOS is a highly simplified operating system that offers only basic Ethernet Switch functions via a simple web interface. RouterOS is a full-fledged Network operating system with a command line, advanced web interface, routing, firewall, and hundreds of other configuration options, often found in MikroTik Routers and MikroTik Switches.
Is the MikroTik CRS305 noisy during operation?
No, the Ethernet Switch is completely silent. It is passively cooled and has no moving parts like fans, making it ideal for offices or living spaces.
Which SFP/SFP+ Modules can I use in the switch?
MikroTik is known for not artificially blocking the use of third-party modules. Typically, SFP / SFP\+ Modules and DAC Cable from most common manufacturers work without issues in their Ethernet Switch devices.
Is the performance sufficient to act as a main router for 10 Gbps internet?
No. For pure Ethernet Switching between ports, the performance is more than sufficient. However, for demanding routing tasks like NAT at 10 Gbps, the CPU is too weak. In such scenarios, it should be used as an Ethernet Switch behind a more powerful MikroTik Routers or other Network router.
Do I need special software to configure the switch?
For SwOS, you only need a web browser. For RouterOS, you can also use a web browser, but the recommended method is MikroTik's free 'Winbox' utility, which clearly presents the full range of functions for their MikroTik Switches and MikroTik Routers.
Homepage: http://www.mikrotik.com/