If you’re looking for a compact yet incredibly powerful solution for your networking needs, the MikroTik CRS304-4XG-IN might be just what you need. In this article, we’ll explore all the features that make this switch an ideal option for both professional and personal use. From its ready-to-use 10G ports to its fanless design and versatile mounting and power options, we’ll detail every aspect of this device to help you understand why it’s such a compelling choice.
What is the CRS304-4XG-IN?
The CRS304-4XG-IN is a high-performance switch from MikroTik, designed to deliver 10G connectivity in a compact and user-friendly design. It comes with four 10G Ethernet ports that work right out of the box, with no need for additional modules. Additionally, it has a dedicated Gigabit Ethernet port for management, making it easy to administer your network without interfering with the main bandwidth.
What Sets the MikroTik CRS304-4XG-IN Apart?
- Native 10G Ports: Unlike many switches that require SFP+ modules to achieve 10G speeds, the CRS304-4XG-IN comes equipped with ready-to-use 10G Ethernet ports. This means you can connect your high-speed devices directly, saving time and additional costs.
- Fanless Design: The switch is designed with an integrated heat sink on the back, eliminating the need for fans for cooling. This ensures quiet operation, ideal for environments where noise is a critical factor, such as offices and studios.
- Robust and Compact Build: Made with a solid construction, the CRS304-4XG-IN offers a perfect balance of lightness and durability, providing a premium feel. Its compact design makes it easy to install almost anywhere.
How Does the CRS304-4XG-IN Power Work?
Power flexibility is one of the strengths of this switch. It offers four power options, ensuring your network keeps running even if one of the power sources fails:
- Two DC connectors for redundancy.
- 2-pin terminal connection.
- PoE IN (Power over Ethernet), which allows you to power the device through the Ethernet cable. The system will automatically choose the power source with the highest available voltage, ensuring efficient failover.
What are the Processing Capabilities?
The CRS304-4XG-IN is not just an ordinary switch; it comes equipped with a dual-core ARM processor and a Marvell Prestera switch chip. This means it can handle a wide range of functions, including:
- Full-speed wire-speed forwarding.
- Broadcast storm control.
- MAC address filtering.
- Support for VLANs and traffic mirroring.
- Bandwidth limiting and some hardware offloading capabilities for layer 3, such as adjustments to MAC and IP headers. With these features, the CRS304-4XG-IN is capable of meeting both corporate network needs and advanced home network configurations.
Why Choose the CRS304-4XG-IN for Your Network Environment?
- Portability and Versatility: The compact size and robust design allow you to carry the CRS304-4XG-IN in your backpack, making it perfect for emergencies or events where a high-speed network is needed.
- Ease of Mounting: The switch comes with an integrated DIN rail mounting and a standard screw bracket, making it easy to install in racks or directly on the wall.
- Competitive Price: With an affordable price, the CRS304-4XG-IN offers excellent value for money, especially when compared to other 10G switches on the market.
Who is the Ideal Target Audience for This Switch?
- IT and Network professionals who need a reliable and powerful solution for their infrastructures.
- Small and Medium-sized Businesses looking to improve their network connectivity without investing in bulky and expensive equipment.
- Technology enthusiasts who want to increase the speed of their home networks to support activities like streaming, online gaming, and large file transfers.
Is the CRS304-4XG-IN Worth Investing In?
The MikroTik CRS304-4XG-IN is undoubtedly an excellent choice for those seeking a compact, powerful, and quiet 10G switch. With its native 10G Ethernet ports, multiple power options, and fanless design, it stands out as a versatile and cost-effective solution for various scenarios. Want to improve your network performance today? Consider the CRS304-4XG-IN as your next purchase. With its competitive price and advanced features, it offers excellent value for money for IT professionals, businesses, and home users demanding high speed and reliability.
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Discover the ease of managing your Mikrotik network with MKController. Read our tutorial “Make Mikrotik Remote Access Easy: A Step-by-Step Guide with MKController” and try it out now.
