Introduction
Overview of MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch 650MHz 4xQSFP28
The MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch is an affordable and compact networking solution that allows for easy connectivity with various fiber connections. With a 650MHz CPU and 64MB RAM, this router switch offers a powerful performance for your networking needs. It features 4xQSFP28 ports that support 40G, 25G, 10G, and 1G connections, allowing for versatile configurations.
Importance of 100 Gigabit Networking
In today’s fast-paced digital world, having a reliable and high-speed network is essential. The MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch plays a crucial role in enabling 100 Gigabit networking, which opens up a whole new realm of possibilities. This switch is a cost-effective solution for upgrading existing 10 or 25 Gigabit networks to the blazing fast speeds of 100 Gigabits.
With the CRS504-4XQ-IN, the benefits of 100 Gigabit networking are no longer limited to data centers, ISPs, and large offices. It provides the perfect opportunity to expand high-speed networking in everyday setups, including small businesses and homes. The small size and low power consumption of the switch make it even more appealing, consuming only 25W without attachments.
This switch offers four 100 Gigabit QSFP28 ports, allowing you to connect other 100 Gigabit devices or use a breakout cable to connect multiple 25 Gigabit devices. The flexibility it provides in mixing and matching different connection speeds, including 10G and 1G cables, offers even more versatility for your networking setup. Additionally, an Ethernet port is available for management purposes.
the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch is a highly capable and affordable option for enhancing your network infrastructure. Its compatibility with a wide range of interface speeds and breakout options, combined with its ease of setup, make it an attractive choice for both experienced professionals and those with less technical knowledge.
Specifications
650MHz CPU and 64MB RAM
The MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch is equipped with a powerful 650MHz CPU and 64MB RAM, ensuring smooth and efficient operation. This enables the switch to handle high data loads and complex network tasks without any compromise on performance.
1x Gigabit Ethernet with 4 x 100Gbit SFP ports
The switch features 1x Gigabit Ethernet port for easy management and connectivity. Additionally, it is equipped with 4x 100Gbit SFP ports, offering compatibility with a wide range of fiber connections. This flexibility allows for seamless integration with a variety of devices, making it an ideal choice for different network setups.
Multiple powering options
To provide convenience and flexibility, the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch offers multiple powering options. Users can choose from various power sources based on their specific requirements, ensuring uninterrupted operation even in challenging environments.
Dual hot-swap power supplies
One of the standout features of this cloud router switch is its dual hot-swap power supplies. This redundancy guarantees seamless operation and protects against power failures, minimizing the risk of downtime. With these power supplies, users can have peace of mind knowing their network remains up and running consistently.
Reviews
We have received positive feedback on the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch. Customers have praised its great value, especially for 100Gbe networks. The switch’s compatibility with a wide range of interface speeds and breakout options has been highlighted as a key advantage.
Users familiar with Mikrotik RouterOS have found the setup process relatively easy and straightforward. However, it is worth noting that technical knowledge is required for configuring 100Gbe connections compared to 1Gbe.
One customer pointed out the need to enable Forward Error Correction (FEC) for achieving 100Gbe with certain NICs. They found that enabling FEC91 was necessary for their ConnectX4 Mellanox cards to hit the desired 100gbps speed. It was noted that the auto configuration feature may not handle this properly in the current firmware revision.
customers have found the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch to be a reliable and versatile option with excellent performance and a user-friendly web interface.
Features
Compact and energy-efficient design
The MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch is designed with compactness and energy efficiency in mind. With a 650MHz CPU and only 64MB RAM, it is a powerful yet efficient networking solution. It consumes a low amount of power, only 25W without any additional attachments. This makes it an ideal choice for expanding 100 Gigabit networking in everyday setups without the need for excessive energy consumption.
Versatile compatibility with 40G, 25G, 10G, and 1G Fiber Connections
This Cloud Router Switch offers incredible versatility in terms of compatibility with various interface speeds. It is compatible with 40G, 25G, 10G, and 1G fiber connections, allowing users to connect different devices with ease. Whether you require high-speed networking in data centers, ISPs, or large offices, this switch has you covered.
Ability to connect multiple devices with breakout cable
One standout feature of the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch is its ability to connect multiple devices using a breakout cable. The four 100 Gigabit QSFP28 ports can be used to connect other 100 Gigabit devices or create connections to multiple 25 Gigabit devices. This means users can connect up to 16 x 25 Gigabit devices using a single port. Additionally, the switch supports mixed connections, allowing for configurations such as 100 Gigabits on one port, 40 Gigabits on another port, and 4×25 Gigabits on the third.
Management capabilities through Ethernet port
For convenient and efficient management, the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch includes an Ethernet port dedicated to management purposes. This port allows users to easily control and monitor their network settings. Whether you need to adjust configurations or troubleshoot issues, the management capabilities provided by this switch make it a reliable and user-friendly option.
Web interface for easy operation
The switch is equipped with a web interface, making it even easier to operate and configure. Users can access the interface through their preferred web browser, allowing for seamless navigation and setup. This user-friendly interface is particularly beneficial for those who may not have extensive technical knowledge in networking, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch offers impressive features, including its compact design, versatile compatibility, device connectivity options, management capabilities, and user-friendly web interface. Its performance and affordability make it a great value switch for those looking to upgrade their networking capabilities.
Setup and Performance
Ease of setup for experienced MikroTik RouterOS users
Setting up the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch for experienced MikroTik RouterOS users is a breeze. With its familiarity and intuitive interface, users will find the setup process relatively easy. The switch is compatible with a wide range of interface speeds and breakout options, making it a great value switch for those in need of 100Gbe connectivity.
Technical knowledge required for 100Gbe setup
While the setup process may be straightforward for experienced MikroTik RouterOS users, it is important to note that configuring 100Gbe connections requires a higher level of technical knowledge compared to 1Gbe setups. Users should be familiar with concepts such as FEC settings and auto configuration to ensure optimal performance.
Issues with auto configuration and FEC settings
Some users have reported issues with auto configuration and FEC settings when trying to achieve 100Gbe with certain network interface cards (NICs). For example, ConnectX4 Mellanox cards required FEC91 settings to achieve 100gbps, and the auto configuration feature in the current firmware revision (as of 1/2023) did not properly deal with this.
To address this issue, users should ensure they have the necessary technical knowledge to manually enable FEC and configure the settings accordingly. By doing so, they can optimize their network performance and ensure a smooth setup.
the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch provides a great value and efficient solution for expanding into the world of 100 Gigabit networking. With its compact size, low power consumption, and versatile connectivity options, this switch is an excellent choice for data centers, ISPs, and even small office setups. It offers the ability to mix and match various connection speeds, making it suitable for a wide range of networking requirements.
Value
Affordable option for 100Gbe networking
When it comes to upgrading your network to 100 Gigabit Ethernet (100Gbe), cost is often a concern. That’s where the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch comes in. This switch offers an affordable solution to enter the world of 100Gbe networking without breaking the bank. With its compact size and low power consumption of only 25W, it’s the perfect choice for everyday setups.
Wide range of interface speeds and breakout options
One of the standout features of the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN is its versatility. It supports a wide range of interface speeds, including 40G, 25G, 10G, and 1G fiber connections. This allows you to mix and match different types of connections to suit your specific needs. With four 100 Gigabit QSFP28 ports, you can connect other 100 Gigabit devices or use a breakout cable to connect multiple 25 Gigabit devices.
Comparison to similar switches in terms of value
In terms of value, the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN stands out among its competitors. It offers comparable features and performance at a more affordable price point. Users have praised its user-friendly web interface, making it relatively easy to set up. However, it’s worth noting that setting up 100Gbe connections may require a bit more technical knowledge compared to 1Gbe. Some users have also reported the need to enable FEC (Forward Error Correction) for certain NICs to achieve full 100gbe speeds.
the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch presents an excellent value for those looking to upgrade their networks to 100Gbe. With its affordable pricing, wide range of interface speeds, and breakout options, it’s a reliable option for both small-scale setups and larger deployments.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch offers several advantages that make it a great option for those looking to upgrade their networking capabilities:
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Affordability: This switch provides an affordable solution for upgrading to 100 Gigabit networking. Its compact size and energy efficiency make it an ideal choice for everyday setups.
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Wide Compatibility: The CRS504-4XQ-IN is compatible with a variety of interface speeds, including 40G, 25G, 10G, and 1G fiber connections. This versatility allows for flexible networking configurations to meet various needs.
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Breakout Options: With four 100 Gigabit QSFP28 ports, the switch can be used to connect other 100 Gigabit devices or multiple 25 Gigabit devices using breakout cables. This flexibility allows for easy mixing and matching of different connection types.
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Easy Management: The switch includes an Ethernet port for management purposes, and it is also compatible with MikroTik RouterOS. For those already experienced with RouterOS, setting up and managing the CRS504-4XQ-IN will be a familiar and straightforward process.
Cons
While the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch has many advantages, there are a few points to consider:
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FEC Requirement: Some network interface cards (NICs) may require enabling Forward Error Correction (FEC) to achieve 100 Gigabit speeds. This configuration may not be automatically handled by the switch’s current firmware revision, requiring manual intervention.
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Technical Knowledge: Setting up and managing 100 Gigabit networking requires more technical knowledge than working with lower speeds like 1 Gigabit. While the CRS504-4XQ-IN offers a user-friendly web interface, users should be prepared for the additional complexity that comes with higher speeds.
the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch offers great value and versatility for upgrading to 100 Gigabit networking. Its wide compatibility, breakout options, and easy management make it a suitable choice for a variety of setups. However, users should be aware of potential FEC configuration requirements and the need for technical knowledge when dealing with higher networking speeds.
FAQs
What are the compatible NICs for achieving 100gbe?
To achieve 100Gbe with the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch, you will need compatible Network Interface Cards (NICs). The switch supports a wide range of interface speeds and breakout options. It is essential to ensure that the NICs you are using are capable of achieving 100Gbe. Some users have reported that their ConnectX4 Mellanox cards required the enabling of FEC (Forward Error Correction) to achieve 100Gbps.
Does the firmware revision address the auto configuration issue?
As of 1/2023, some users have mentioned that the current firmware revision of the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch does not properly handle auto configuration when it comes to achieving 100Gbe with certain NICs. This means that you may need to manually configure settings, such as enabling FEC, to ensure optimal performance. It is recommended to keep an eye on firmware updates and release notes for any fixes or improvements related to this issue.
Can the switch be used for both data centers and small offices?
Yes, the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch is designed to be versatile and suitable for different environments. While 100Gbe networking was traditionally limited to data centers, ISPs, and large offices, this switch allows for expanding 100Gbe networking in everyday setups. With its compact size, energy efficiency, and multiple powering options, it is an affordable gateway to the world of 100Gbe networking. Whether you are setting up a data center or a small office, this switch offers the flexibility to connect various devices with different connection speeds, ranging from 40G to 1G. It is also worth noting that there is an Ethernet port available for management purposes.
User Reviews
Great value switch (for 100gbe at least) that supports a wide range of interface speeds and breakout options. If you’re experienced with MikroTik RouterOS, this will feel very familiar and relatively easy to set up. However, it is important to note that achieving 100Gbe may require enabling FEC for some NICs. In my case, my ConnectX4 Mellanox cards needed FEC (FEC91) to reach 100gbps. It is worth mentioning that the current firmware revision (as of 1/2023) does not seem to handle auto configuration properly in relation to this issue.
Another user shared that the switch works great with the web interface and is relatively easy to set up. However, it is important to note that setting up 100Gbe requires more technical knowledge compared to setting up 1Gbe connections.
Conclusion
Summary of the review
In conclusion, the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch is a highly affordable and compact networking solution that provides efficient and seamless connectivity. With its 650MHz CPU and 64MB RAM, this switch offers impressive performance for its size. Its compatibility with 40G, 25G, 10G, and 1G fiber connections makes it versatile and adaptable to various networking needs.
Final thoughts on the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch
We have found the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch to be a great value switch for 100gbe networking. It is not only affordable but also supports a wide range of interface speeds and breakout options. If you are already familiar with Mikrotik RouterOS, setting up this switch will be relatively easy. However, it is important to note that achieving 100gbe may require some technical knowledge, particularly when it comes to enabling FEC (Forward Error Correction) for certain network interface cards.
It is worth mentioning that some users have reported issues with the auto-configuration feature when it comes to enabling FEC in the current firmware revision. We recommend checking for any firmware updates and configuring the settings manually if needed.
Overall, the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN Cloud Router Switch offers an affordable and efficient solution for expanding your network to 100 Gigabit speeds. Its small size, low power consumption, and versatile connection options make it a suitable choice for everyday setups, not just limited to data centers and large offices.
