Introducing the MikroTik CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM: An Ultra-Fast Enterprise Switch

The MikroTik CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM is a high-performance switch designed to cater to the needs of enterprise networks, data centers, and multimedia studios. Here's a detailed look at its features and a comparison with the previous model, the CRS518-16XS-2XQ-RM.

CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM Key Features:
 

 16x 100G QSFP28 Ports: Ideal for high-speed data transfers.

 4x 25G SFP28 Ports: Provides additional high-speed connectivity.

 2x 10G Ethernet Ports: Useful for management and extra connectivity.

 Console Port: For direct management access.

 Hot-Swap Power Supplies & Cooling: Ensures minimal downtime.

 4GB DDR4 RAM: Supports advanced processing needs.

 Quad-Core ARM 2 GHz CPU: Offers powerful processing capability.

 RouterOS v7: With advanced networking features and future updates

Additional Features:
 

 Port Density: High port density suitable for large-scale network environments, offering the best within the price market.

 Number of 100 Gigabit Ports per Dollar: First in the sub-$5K category.

 VPN4 for BGP: Supports VPN for BGP, enhancing network security and flexibility, the best solution for businesses for their network.

 OBM: Out-of-Band Management for improved network management and maintenance.

 Blade Super Micro: Compatible with Blade Super Micro setups, using the same ASIC as their switches, providing near wirespeed performance.

 DC Power Option: Available for separate purchase to accommodate different power setups.

 RoCE (Remote Direct Memory Access over Converged Ethernet): Supports high-performance networking for data centers, making it more flexible for industries that want to consume less.

 Watts per Gigabit: Efficient power consumption with optimal performance per watt.

Specifications:

 CPU: Quad-Core AL52400 2 GHz

 CPU Architecture: ARM 64-bit

 RAM: 4 GB DDR4

 Storage: 128 MB NAND

 Operating System: RouterOS v7, License level 

 Dimensions: 443 x 367 x 44 m

 Operating Temperature: -20°C to +50°

 Max Power Consumption: 183 W

CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM: An Improved Successor to the CRS518-16XS-2XQ-RM

The CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM is an improved version of the CRS518-16XS-2XQ-RM, offering enhanced performance, greater port density, and advanced processing capabilities. While the CRS518-16XS-2XQ-RM features 2x 100G and 16x 25G ports, the CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM significantly upgrades with 16x 100G and 4x 25G ports, providing superior connectivity options. The newer model boasts a powerful quad-core ARM 2 GHz CPU and 4 GB DDR4 RAM, compared to the older model's single-core 650 MHz CPU and 64 MB RAM, allowing it to handle more complex tasks and future updates more efficiently. Additionally, the CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM supports advanced features such as OSPF/BGP, out-of-band management VPNs, and L3HW offloaded routing, making it a more robust and future-proof solution for enterprise networks and data centers.

Here’s a table to compare the CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM and CRS518-16XS-2XQ-RM:

Conclusion:

The MikroTik CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM is a powerful, versatile, and future-proof switch designed for high-demand environments. Its advanced features, high port density, and robust processing capabilities make it an excellent choice for enterprise networks, data centers, and other setups requiring reliable and high-speed connectivity.