MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN in Dubai, UAE
A four-port QSFP28 switch for organisations planning high-capacity server, storage, aggregation or backbone links while retaining flexible speed options and RouterOS-based management.
Purchase discussion should cover
Required 100G, 50G, 40G, 25G, 10G or 1G link mix
QSFP28 optics, DAC, AOC or breakout cabling
Port count after uplinks and redundancy
Rack, power, cooling and configuration scope
Direct answer for buyers
The MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN is an indoor managed switch intended to make 100 Gigabit Ethernet practical in compact server rooms, laboratories, service-provider racks and high-performance business networks. It is mainly used to aggregate fast servers, storage systems, routers or downstream switches through four QSFP28 ports. Buyers should consider it when four physical 100G-class ports are sufficient and flexible breakout connectivity is useful. Before proceeding, confirm the total port count after reserving uplinks, the exact supported speed arrangement, cable or optical reach, module compatibility, redundancy expectations, RouterOS configuration needs and the required power method. These details determine the correct bill of materials and whether a larger switch would be a better fit.
What the CRS504-4XQ-IN does
This model provides four high-speed QSFP28 interfaces driven by a Marvell 98DX4310 switch chip. Each physical port can be used for a 100G connection or, with the appropriate module and configuration, divided into lower-speed lanes. That flexibility lets a buyer combine full 100G uplinks with 25G server connections, 40G legacy equipment or selected 10G and 1G links. The switch is therefore useful as an aggregation point, a compact leaf switch, a storage-network interconnect or a transition platform between existing 10/25G infrastructure and newer 100G equipment.
The device also has a separate 10/100 Ethernet port for management and an RJ45 serial console. RouterOS v7 supplies the management environment, while hardware switching capabilities are provided through the switch silicon. Design decisions should distinguish switching functions that can be offloaded in hardware from routing or filtering workloads that may rely more heavily on the device CPU.
Who should consider it
The CRS504-4XQ-IN may suit organisations with a small number of very fast links rather than dozens of access ports. Typical buyers include internet service providers, data-processing teams, media production environments, research laboratories, backup and storage administrators, cloud or hosting operators, and businesses consolidating server traffic into a high-capacity core.
It is especially relevant where space and power consumption matter, because the enclosure is compact and the manufacturer states a maximum consumption of 25 W without attachments and 41 W at maximum load. It may be less suitable where the project requires many native SFP28 ports, a large number of 100G interfaces, extensive chassis-level redundancy, or a familiar enterprise switching platform with a different operational model. FourTeck can help compare the expected topology against the available four-port layout before a quotation is finalised.
Business challenges this compact 100G switch can address
Server and storage bottlenecks
Fast compute nodes and storage arrays can exceed the practical limits of 1G or 10G access. A 100G aggregation layer provides more headroom, provided the end systems, adapters and cabling are designed to use it.
Mixed-speed migration
A network does not always upgrade in one step. Breakout support allows the project to combine 25G server links with 100G uplinks while retaining selected 40G, 10G or 1G connections where supported.
Limited rack space
The compact enclosure can fit deployments where a full-depth, high-port-count data-centre switch would be excessive. Rack, wall and desktop placement still require safe ventilation and qualified installation.
Power-path resilience
Dual hot-swap AC supplies and alternative DC or 802.3bt PoE-in options give designers several powering approaches. The chosen design must be validated against site power, redundancy and maintenance requirements.
Core capabilities at a glance
Product-fit decision matrix
| Requirement | Suitable when | Confirm before ordering |
|---|---|---|
| Compact 100G aggregation | Four QSFP28 ports cover the planned uplinks and attached systems. | Reserve ports for uplink, resilience and future expansion. |
| 25G server fan-out | Breakout cabling can serve several SFP28 endpoints. | NIC compatibility, cable type, lane mapping and total link count. |
| Mixed 40G and 100G network | The supported speed modes align with the installed equipment. | The manufacturer notes that 2 × 40G mode is not supported. |
| Redundant power | Two AC feeds or an approved alternative power design are available. | Circuit separation, voltage, connectors and maintenance procedure. |
| Layer 3 functions | Required features are supported by RouterOS and suitable hardware offload. | Actual feature set, rules, scale and expected routed throughput. |
Verified technical information
| Brand | MikroTik |
|---|---|
| Product code | CRS504-4XQ-IN |
| Product type | Indoor managed Cloud Router Switch |
| QSFP28 ports | 4 × 100G QSFP28 |
| Supported port modes | 1 × 100G, 2 × 50G, 1 × 50G, 1 × 40G, 4 × 25G, 4 × 10G and 4 × 1G; 2 × 40G is not supported |
| Management Ethernet | 1 × 10/100 Ethernet port |
| Console | RJ45 serial console |
| Switch chip | Marvell 98DX4310 |
| CPU | QCA9531, one core, 650 MHz, MIPSBE architecture |
| Memory and storage | 64 MB RAM and 16 MB flash storage |
| Operating system | RouterOS v7, License Level 5 |
| Dimensions | 320 × 185 × 44 mm |
| Cooling | Two fans |
| AC power | Two 100–240 V AC inputs with hot-swap power supplies |
| Alternative DC inputs | 36–57 V DC jack, 36–57 V two-pin terminal and 43–57 V 802.3bt PoE-in |
| Power consumption | 25 W maximum without attachments; 41 W maximum load |
| Tested ambient temperature | -40°C to 70°C; installation remains indoor and dry |
| Included items | Rack ears, screw kit and two IEC power cords |
| Availability | Contact FourTeck for current UAE options, quantity and lead time |
Compatibility and dependency notice
The QSFP28 port count does not by itself determine how many usable endpoints the finished network will support. Transceivers, direct-attach copper cables, active optical cables and breakout assemblies must match the port speed, lane format, connector, fibre type, reach and network adapter on the opposite side. Some third-party modules may work, but compatibility and diagnostics should be checked against current MikroTik guidance and the actual RouterOS release. Buyers planning breakout links should document each lane and verify whether the server NIC or downstream switch expects 4 × 25G, 4 × 10G or another supported mode.
RouterOS features also depend on configuration. A switch can deliver high Layer 2 forwarding through its switching hardware, while complex routing, firewall, queueing or monitoring configurations may produce different performance. Do not size the device solely from headline switching capacity when the requirement includes extensive Layer 3 policy. Share VLAN counts, routing tables, access-control requirements, expected traffic profiles and resilience objectives with FourTeck so the design can be reviewed before purchase.
A practical purchase and deployment journey
Map the topology
List every server, storage system, router and downstream switch, then reserve links for uplink and redundancy.
Select link media
Choose DAC, AOC or optical modules according to distance, cable routing, connector type and environmental needs.
Confirm power and mounting
Plan rack or desktop placement, airflow, dual AC feeds or alternative DC/PoE power, and safe cable support.
Configure and test
Update RouterOS, secure management, define bridges and VLANs, set port modes and test each link before production use.
Flexible speed architecture
The defining advantage of the CRS504-4XQ-IN is not simply four 100G sockets. Each QSFP28 interface contains multiple electrical lanes, so supported breakout modes can turn one physical port into several lower-speed connections. A deployment can use one port for a 100G backbone, another for a 40G system and another with a four-way 25G breakout. This helps organisations migrate in stages instead of replacing every network adapter at once.
The flexibility should be treated as an engineering choice rather than automatic interoperability. The exact cable assembly and interface configuration must match both ends. Port labels, lane assignment and change documentation become important because one failed physical cable can affect several logical links. For critical systems, buyers should decide whether separate physical connections provide a preferable fault boundary.
Switching performance and hardware offload
MikroTik publishes non-blocking Layer 1 switching capacity figures for this model and uses the Marvell 98DX4310 switching platform. In a well-designed Layer 2 configuration, the switch chip can move traffic at high rates without asking the modest management CPU to process every packet. This is valuable for storage, server aggregation and backbone use where predictable forwarding is more important than running heavy services on the switch itself.
The distinction between switched and CPU-processed traffic matters. Feature combinations, rules and RouterOS versions can influence which flows are hardware offloaded. Buyers expecting extensive routing, filtering, queueing or tunnelling should validate their exact design and test representative traffic. FourTeck can help clarify whether the project is primarily a high-speed switching requirement or whether a dedicated high-performance router should sit alongside the CRS504.
Power continuity in a small enclosure
Two hot-swap AC power supplies allow the switch to be connected to separate power paths where the site supports them. The additional DC jack, two-pin terminal and 802.3bt PoE-in input can support alternative designs. These options are useful in telecom rooms, mobile racks, laboratories and sites where a DC plant or high-power PoE source is already available.
Redundant inputs do not create end-to-end resilience on their own. The circuits, UPS systems, power distribution units, source equipment and operating procedures must also be independent. A buyer should document which supply is primary, how alarms are monitored, whether a failed PSU can be replaced safely and whether the switch remains reachable through an out-of-band management path during maintenance.
Ideal business environments and use cases
High-speed storage networks
Connect storage servers, backup platforms or data-processing nodes where several 10G or 25G flows need to converge into a faster uplink. End-to-end throughput still depends on disks, controllers, NICs, protocols and host tuning.
Research and laboratory data
Support movement of large scientific, imaging or analytics datasets between compute and storage systems. The compact format may suit dedicated project racks that need high bandwidth without a large switching chassis.
Media production
Aggregate editing stations, render nodes and shared storage where large files are transferred frequently. Buyers should plan traffic patterns, multicast needs, redundancy and the sustained performance of attached systems.
ISP and hosting aggregation
Provide a small 100G switching point between routers, servers or service platforms. Port scarcity must be considered carefully because a resilient design can consume interfaces quickly.
Virtualisation clusters
Use 25G breakout links for hosts and one or more 100G uplinks where the lane count fits the cluster design. Validate NIC drivers, transceiver support, VLAN design and failure domains.
Infrastructure modernisation
Create a transitional bridge from 10G or 25G systems toward a 100G backbone. A phased plan should identify which legacy links remain and when a higher-port-count platform will become necessary.
Integration and operational considerations
A fast switch is only one component of a working high-speed network. Server adapters must support the intended Ethernet rate and cable type. Optical links need compatible wavelengths, fibre grade, connector cleanliness and loss budgets. Direct-attach cables simplify short rack connections but have length and bending limitations. Active optical cables can extend reach while retaining an integrated assembly, although they may be less flexible to repair than separate optics and fibre. The final selection should reflect distance, cable pathways, serviceability and cost rather than port speed alone.
Management planning is equally important. The separate 10/100 Ethernet interface can be placed on a protected management network, while the serial console supports local recovery. Administrators should upgrade to a suitable current RouterOS v7 release, replace default credentials, restrict management services, back up configuration and document the rollback process. Monitoring should cover interface status, errors, optical diagnostics where available, temperature, fan condition, CPU load and power-supply state. Logging should be forwarded to an appropriate system if the switch supports a critical business service.
VLAN and spanning-tree design must align with the wider network. High-capacity links can magnify the effect of a loop or configuration error, so change control and staged testing are important. Where the switch connects storage or clustered systems, check MTU requirements across every hop and verify that host, switch and application settings agree. Jumbo frames should not be enabled only on one device. Resilience may involve link aggregation, dual switches, separate power paths or redundant routers, but the exact design depends on endpoint capabilities and the organisation’s recovery objectives.
Buyer questions to resolve before ordering
A four-port switch can be ideal for a focused design, but redundancy and growth can use available interfaces quickly.
Document 100G, 50G, 40G, 25G, 10G and 1G requirements rather than assuming auto-negotiation will cover every combination.
Distance and cable route determine whether DAC, AOC, multimode or single-mode optics are appropriate.
Share routing, filtering and queue requirements so hardware offload and performance expectations can be assessed.
Decide whether dual power alone is sufficient or whether two switches, diverse links and independent upstream devices are required.
Include installation, RouterOS configuration, testing, documentation and handover in the quotation when internal resources are limited.
Procurement checklist
☑ Exact CRS504-4XQ-IN model and required quantity
☑ Number of 100G, 50G, 40G, 25G, 10G and 1G links
☑ Uplink, breakout and redundancy topology
☑ Compatible QSFP28 modules, DACs or AOCs
☑ Fibre type, connector and required distance
☑ Server NIC and downstream switch compatibility
☑ Rack, desktop or wall placement plan
☑ Dual AC, DC or PoE-in power approach
☑ RouterOS feature and hardware-offload requirements
☑ VLAN, MTU, routing and monitoring scope
☑ Installation, configuration and testing services
☑ Destination, delivery coordination and preferred timeline
☑ Warranty terms and support route to confirm in quotation
How FourTeck can assist
FourTeck can review the intended network design before the product is quoted. The discussion can include port allocation, breakout requirements, transceiver and cable selection, rack location, power design, RouterOS configuration, VLAN structure, management access and testing expectations. This is particularly useful with the CRS504-4XQ-IN because a small difference in cable type or lane mode can change the entire bill of materials.
For projects that include multiple servers or storage systems, FourTeck can help organise the requirement into an equipment list that distinguishes the switch, optics, cables, adapters, accessories and professional services. Compatibility remains dependent on the exact third-party devices and software versions, so buyers should provide model numbers and interface details. For broader infrastructure planning, visit the FourTeck technology product range, review available installation and configuration services, or send the project requirement for quotation coordination.
UAE availability and support guidance
Contact FourTeck to confirm current UAE availability for the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN. Availability may depend on quantity, vendor lead time, the required power-supply package and whether compatible QSFP28 modules or breakout cables are included. A quotation should identify every required component rather than listing only the switch. Delivery and project coordination can be discussed after the exact destination, quantity and preferred schedule are known. Installation and configuration scope should be included in the quotation where required.
FourTeck can coordinate requirements for businesses in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Ajman through one combined project discussion. This avoids repeating technical discovery for each location and helps standardise port modes, optics, software versions and documentation across multiple sites. Site-specific factors such as rack space, power feeds, fibre pathways, access windows and support expectations still need to be confirmed individually. No stock position, fixed delivery date or installation date should be assumed until the final bill of materials and project scope are reviewed.
GCC Availability
FourTeck can assist organisations planning CRS504-4XQ-IN deployments across GCC markets by reviewing the exact switch quantity, link-speed plan, optics, breakout cables, deployment location and configuration scope. Projects in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain or Oman may have different fulfilment routes, power arrangements, service requirements and vendor lead times. Buyers should share the destination country, required quantity, port-speed mix, preferred cable type, installation environment and target schedule before requesting a final quotation. Licensing for RouterOS is built into the appliance, but compatibility, delivery planning, service visits and support scope remain dependent on the project. FourTeck can coordinate model confirmation, bill-of-material guidance, quotation review, installation planning and configuration requirements without assuming local inventory or a fixed delivery date. For Kuwait-related coordination, buyers may also review FourTeck Kuwait technology assistance.
Africa Availability
Organisations planning high-speed switching projects in Africa can ask FourTeck to review the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN alongside the required optics, cables, server interfaces and deployment services. Fulfilment may vary according to the destination, quantity, vendor lead time, shipping arrangements, local power standards, fibre availability and support expectations. Buyers in East Africa and other regions should provide the destination country, exact product quantity, intended 100G or breakout topology, preferred deployment schedule and any installation or configuration needs. FourTeck can help evaluate whether this compact four-port model is suitable or whether a different port density would reduce operational constraints. Regional planning does not imply local inventory, immediate shipment or country-wide onsite coverage. Relevant resources include technology coordination in Kenya, FourTeck Uganda support information and the broader FourTeck Africa technology portal.
Related products and services to discuss
QSFP28 breakout cable
A suitable QSFP28-to-4×SFP28 assembly may connect multiple 25G endpoints. Exact compatibility and length must be confirmed.
100G optical modules
Short-, medium- or longer-reach modules should be selected according to fibre type, connector, distance and link budget.
High-performance router
A separate router may be appropriate when the project needs extensive Layer 3 processing, policy or internet-edge services.
Installation and configuration
Rack placement, RouterOS updates, management hardening, VLANs, port modes, testing and documentation can be scoped.
Why businesses contact FourTeck
The CRS504-4XQ-IN is straightforward to identify, but an accurate high-speed-network quotation requires more than the appliance model. Buyers contact FourTeck to clarify how many ports are actually available after uplinks, whether breakout cabling is appropriate, which optics match the fibre plant, how the switch will be powered and where configuration responsibility sits. This practical review can reduce mismatched transceivers, missing cables and unrealistic port-count assumptions.
FourTeck can also help separate product purchase from optional project services. A buyer may require only the switch and accessories, while another project may include rack installation, software updating, VLAN configuration, management integration, testing, documentation or handover. The quotation can reflect the chosen scope. Learn more about FourTeck or use the business technology contact channel for a wider multi-site requirement.
Frequently asked questions
Is the MikroTik CRS504-4XQ-IN a router or a switch?
It belongs to MikroTik’s Cloud Router Switch range and runs RouterOS v7, but its main value is high-speed switching through the Marvell switch chip. Routing features are available, yet buyers with demanding Layer 3 workloads should validate hardware offload and performance for their specific configuration.
Can every QSFP28 port run at 100G?
The unit has four 100G QSFP28 ports. Actual link operation depends on compatible modules or cables, the device at the opposite end and the configured speed mode.
Can it connect 25G servers?
Yes, supported breakout arrangements can divide a QSFP28 port into four 25G lanes. The breakout cable, SFP28 endpoint, lane mapping and RouterOS configuration must all be compatible.
Does the switch include RouterOS licensing?
Yes. MikroTik lists RouterOS v7 with License Level 5, and the operating system is preinstalled and licensed. No separate RouterOS purchase is normally required for the appliance.
Are QSFP28 modules included?
QSFP28 optics and breakout cables should be treated as separate project components unless the final quotation explicitly includes them. The manufacturer’s included-parts list identifies rack ears, a screw kit and two IEC power cords.
Does it have redundant power supplies?
The device has two hot-swap AC power-supply slots and two AC inputs. It also accepts specified DC and 802.3bt PoE-in power. End-to-end redundancy depends on how the site circuits and source equipment are designed.
Can the CRS504-4XQ-IN be used outdoors?
No. This IN model is intended for indoor use in a dry, ventilated environment. Buyers requiring an outdoor enclosure should evaluate a purpose-built outdoor model rather than exposing this unit to water or uncontrolled conditions.
How should it be managed?
RouterOS can be accessed using WebFig, WinBox or command-line methods, and the unit also has an RJ45 serial console. The management interface should be secured, credentials changed and software updated before production deployment.
What information is needed for a Dubai quotation?
Provide quantity, required link speeds, cable distances, endpoint models, transceiver preferences, deployment location, power design, configuration scope and desired delivery coordination. These details help FourTeck prepare a more complete bill of materials.
Can FourTeck assist with installation and configuration?
Installation and configuration assistance can be discussed as a separate scope. Requirements may include rack mounting, RouterOS updating, VLANs, port modes, management hardening, testing and documentation.
Plan the CRS504-4XQ-IN around your actual links
Share the endpoint models, link speeds, distances, quantity and deployment scope so FourTeck can help assemble the switch, cables, optics and services into a practical UAE quotation.
