MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+RM in Dubai, UAE
A compact 1U Cloud Router Switch for business networks that need high Gigabit port density, flexible VLAN control and two SFP+ interfaces for 10 Gigabit uplinks. FourTeck helps buyers assess the model, optics, rack requirements, configuration scope and UAE procurement details before ordering.
Direct answer for buyers
The MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+RM is a managed rack switch built around twenty-four Gigabit copper ports and two SFP+ uplinks. It is mainly used to connect user devices, servers, access points, cameras, phones and other network equipment while separating traffic with VLANs and aggregating links toward a router, core switch or storage network. It is worth considering when a site needs affordable managed switching and 10G uplink flexibility without PoE output. Before proceeding, confirm the required optical modules or direct-attach cables, VLAN and management design, rack depth, power arrangement, expected traffic patterns and whether a separate PoE switch or router is required.
What this switch does
The CRS326-24G-2S+RM provides a central Ethernet switching point for a small or medium business network. Its twenty-four RJ45 ports can connect standard Gigabit devices, while the two SFP+ cages can carry 10 Gigabit links to another switch, a server, a storage appliance or a suitable router. The SFP+ cages also support 1.25 Gigabit SFP modules, giving network designers a choice of fibre and compatible copper transceivers.
The device can boot RouterOS for broader MikroTik configuration capabilities or SwOS for a more focused switching interface. This choice is useful for organisations that already use MikroTik tools, although the operating mode should be selected deliberately and documented so future administrators understand how the switch is managed.
Who it suits
This model is suitable for branch offices, education environments, clinics, retail back offices, hospitality sites, laboratories, workshops, surveillance networks and small data rooms that require a full 24-port managed switch. It can also serve as an access-layer switch in a larger network where the two 10G interfaces provide uplinks to a distribution layer.
It is less suitable where endpoints must receive power directly from the switch, because the Ethernet ports do not provide PoE output. It should also not be selected as a substitute for a high-throughput enterprise router or advanced security appliance without confirming the routing, firewall, VPN and inspection workload. Its strongest role is managed switching, not heavy software-based packet processing.
Business challenges and practical responses
Too few wired ports
Twenty-four Gigabit interfaces provide a practical concentration point for desks, printers, servers, phones, cameras and wireless access infrastructure, subject to the separate power needs of each device.
Congested switch uplinks
Two SFP+ cages allow 10G uplink designs, link redundancy or separate connections to core and server infrastructure when suitable modules, cabling and topology are chosen.
Flat, difficult-to-control LANs
Managed VLANs, port isolation, traffic mirroring, filtering and bandwidth controls can support clearer segmentation and troubleshooting when configured as part of a documented network design.
Mixed management preferences
Dual boot provides a choice between SwOS and RouterOS. This helps different technical teams adopt the interface and feature set that best fit their operational practice.
Core switching capabilities
Connect up to twenty-four copper Ethernet devices at 10, 100 or 1000 Mbps, subject to cabling quality and endpoint capability.
Use supported SFP+ optics, direct-attach cables or suitable transceivers for higher-speed backbone, server or inter-switch connections.
Build VLAN-based separation for departments, voice, surveillance, guests, servers or management traffic using an agreed design.
The passively cooled chassis avoids fan noise, though proper rack ventilation and ambient-temperature control remain important.
Product-fit matrix
| Requirement | Suitable when | Confirm before ordering |
|---|---|---|
| 24-port access switching | The site needs up to twenty-four Gigabit copper connections in one 1U chassis. | Allow spare ports for growth and verify whether powered endpoints need PoE. |
| 10G backbone links | The design needs one or two SFP+ uplinks to a router, core switch, server or storage device. | Module type, wavelength, fibre grade, connector, distance and peer compatibility. |
| VLAN segmentation | Departments or services must be logically separated on shared switching infrastructure. | VLAN IDs, tagged and untagged ports, native VLAN policy and upstream configuration. |
| Quiet rack environment | Passive cooling is preferred for an office-adjacent rack or controlled equipment room. | Ventilation, rack temperature, dust exposure and spacing around equipment. |
| Routing and firewall functions | Only modest Layer 3 functions are expected and the design has been performance-checked. | Actual throughput, rule count, queues, VPN needs and whether a dedicated router or firewall is more appropriate. |
Verified technical information
The following fields are based on the exact CRS326-24G-2S+RM model. Performance in a live network depends on software version, configuration, packet size, features and traffic pattern.
| Brand | MikroTik |
|---|---|
| Product code | CRS326-24G-2S+RM |
| Product type | Managed Cloud Router Switch |
| Ethernet ports | 24 × 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ45 |
| SFP+ ports | 2 × SFP+ cages; supports compatible 1.25G SFP and 10G SFP+ modules |
| CPU and switch chip | 98DX3236, dual-core, 800 MHz, ARM 32-bit |
| Memory | 512 MB RAM; 16 MB flash storage |
| Operating system | RouterOS or SwOS dual boot; RouterOS Level 5 licence |
| Serial console | 1 × RJ45 serial console port |
| Power input | 10–30 V DC jack and 10–30 V passive PoE input; two input methods can support power-source failover when correctly designed |
| Maximum power consumption | 24 W |
| PoE output | Not supported |
| Cooling | Passive |
| Dimensions | 443 × 144 × 44 mm |
| Mounting | 1U rackmount; rack ears and screw set listed as included parts |
| Included power adapter | 24 V, 1.2 A adapter listed by the manufacturer |
| Tested ambient temperature | -40°C to 60°C; indoor installation and suitable ventilation are still required |
| Protection rating | IP20 |
| Listed certifications | CE, EAC and RoHS |
| Availability and warranty | Contact FourTeck for current UAE availability, vendor lead time and applicable warranty terms. |
Compatibility and dependency notice
SFP and SFP+ modules are not interchangeable simply because they fit the cage. Confirm speed, optical wavelength, fibre type, connector type, supported distance, digital diagnostics requirements and compatibility at both ends of the link. Copper SFP+ modules may have additional power and heat considerations. Direct-attach cables must be compatible with both connected devices. For VLAN deployments, the upstream router, firewall, wireless controller, servers and other switches must use matching tagged and untagged settings. RouterOS and SwOS expose different management workflows, so configuration methods, backup procedures and monitoring should be defined before handover.
The CRS326-24G-2S+RM accepts passive PoE input but does not supply PoE output. A PoE switch, injectors or local power adapters are therefore required for powered endpoints. Confirm all accessories separately in the bill of materials; do not assume optics, patch cords, fibre trays, console cables, UPS capacity or rack accessories are included unless the quotation states them.
A practical purchase and deployment journey
Map connected equipment
Count current and planned endpoints, including desktops, printers, servers, phones, access points, cameras, controllers and any equipment that needs a dedicated management port.
Define uplink architecture
Decide whether each SFP+ cage will connect to a core switch, router, server, storage platform or redundant path. Identify link speed, media, distance and resiliency requirements.
Choose RouterOS or SwOS
SwOS may suit focused switching administration, while RouterOS can provide wider MikroTik functions and familiar WinBox or WebFig management. The choice should match technical skills and required features.
Build the complete bill of materials
Include the switch, optics or DACs, fibre or copper patch leads, rack parts, power arrangement, UPS allocation and separate PoE equipment where powered devices are present.
Configure, test and document
Update to an appropriate supported software release, set secure credentials, configure VLANs and management access, test failover and links, save backups and record port assignments before handover.
Twenty-four Gigabit ports for a structured access layer
A 24-port switch is often the practical centre of a small office or one floor of a larger building. The CRS326-24G-2S+RM can consolidate wired endpoints in a standard rack, reducing the need for several unmanaged desktop switches. This makes cable tracing, VLAN assignment and fault isolation easier when ports are labelled and documented. It also creates a cleaner boundary between access devices and the upstream router or core switch.
Port count should not be based only on the equipment installed today. A business expecting additional workstations, wireless access points, IP cameras, printers or building systems should reserve capacity. At the same time, buyers must distinguish data ports from powered ports. The CRS326 provides data connectivity but not PoE output, so an organisation with many phones, cameras or access points may prefer a PoE-capable switch or a mixed design in which the CRS326 handles non-powered equipment and a dedicated PoE switch handles powered endpoints.
Cabling also matters. Existing Cat5e may support Gigabit Ethernet over compliant distances, while Cat6 is often selected for new structured cabling and is recommended in MikroTik’s installation guidance. Cable certification, patch-panel condition, grounding practice and cabinet layout can affect reliability even when the switch itself is correctly configured.
Dual SFP+ uplinks for faster aggregation
The two SFP+ cages are a major reason to choose this model over a basic 24-port Gigabit switch. A single 10G uplink can reduce bottlenecks when many users access servers, internet gateways or shared storage through the same access switch. The second cage can provide another uplink, a server connection, a storage path or a redundancy option, depending on the wider topology and supported protocols.
The physical module must be selected for the link. Short in-rack connections may use a compatible direct-attach copper cable. Fibre links require optics matched by speed, wavelength, connector and fibre type. Multimode and single-mode optics serve different distances and cabling environments. A copper SFP+ transceiver may be considered where 10GBASE-T is required, but power draw, heat and reach should be reviewed. The fact that a module is physically insertable does not guarantee interoperability.
Link aggregation can combine interfaces for resilience or capacity when both ends support compatible configuration, but it does not make every individual flow twice as fast. Buyers should discuss traffic distribution, spanning tree, link aggregation, upstream port availability and failover behaviour as part of the design rather than treating the second SFP+ port as automatic redundancy.
Management flexibility without overstating routing performance
RouterOS and SwOS serve different administrative preferences. SwOS concentrates on switching tasks such as VLANs, port forwarding behaviour, mirroring, link aggregation and related controls through a focused web interface. RouterOS offers the broader MikroTik environment, including familiar management tools and additional Layer 3 capabilities. Teams already operating MikroTik routers may value a common interface, backup approach and monitoring practice.
However, a Cloud Router Switch should still be selected according to its switching role. Hardware-offloaded switching can deliver strong wire-speed Layer 2 performance, while software routing, filtering and queueing use CPU resources and produce lower throughput. The manufacturer’s published tests show that routing and bridge-filter workloads vary substantially with packet size and rule configuration. An internet edge, high-volume inter-VLAN router or security gateway may therefore need a dedicated router or firewall even when RouterOS is used on the switch.
Operationally, whichever system is chosen should be secured and maintained. Default credentials must be changed, management access should be restricted, unused services disabled, configuration backups stored safely and software updates evaluated before deployment. A switch is part of the security boundary even when it is not the organisation’s firewall.
Suitable business environments
Office access networks
Connect desktops, printers, meeting-room systems and local servers while separating departments, guests, voice and management traffic through planned VLANs.
Education and training sites
Support classrooms, labs, administration areas and wireless infrastructure with central port control and higher-speed uplinks to the main network.
Surveillance aggregation
Aggregate NVRs, monitoring stations and non-PoE camera-side links. PoE cameras will need separate power or a PoE-capable access layer.
Hospitality and retail operations
Segment back-office systems, points of sale, guest services, management traffic and building systems where the network design and compliance requirements allow.
Small server rooms
Provide Gigabit device access with 10G links to selected servers, routers or storage, subject to workload and availability requirements.
Branch and project sites
Use a familiar MikroTik-managed platform for a branch LAN, temporary project office or distributed site where central standards can be documented and repeated.
Integration and operational considerations
The switch must integrate with the router or firewall that provides internet access, DHCP, inter-VLAN routing and security policy. VLAN trunks should be agreed at both ends, including allowed VLANs and the handling of untagged traffic. A mismatch can isolate devices or unintentionally bridge networks that were meant to remain separate.
Wireless access points may carry multiple SSIDs mapped to VLANs. In that design, the access point port is usually configured as a trunk, while ordinary workstations commonly use access ports. Voice deployments may need voice VLAN behaviour and quality-of-service rules. Surveillance designs should consider multicast, continuous video traffic, storage bandwidth and the absence of PoE output.
Monitoring can include interface status, traffic counters, logs and SNMP where supported and configured. Management traffic should use a protected network rather than an exposed user VLAN. Administrative access should be limited to approved source addresses, and remote management should pass through secure access controls rather than direct internet exposure.
Power design deserves attention even though the switch consumes a relatively modest maximum of 24 W. A UPS should be sized for the switch plus the router, firewall, ISP equipment, fibre termination and any other critical devices. The two supported power-input methods can provide source failover only when implemented with compatible voltages and a deliberate electrical design.
Rack placement should allow airflow around the passively cooled chassis. The unit is intended for indoor use and has an IP20 rating, so it should not be installed in exposed, wet or dusty areas without suitable environmental protection. Cable management should avoid stress on SFP+ modules and fibre connectors.
Change control is essential. Back up the configuration before upgrades, document the chosen boot operating system, record software versions, label uplinks, maintain a port map and test the recovery process. A low-cost switch can still become a critical dependency when every local user and service passes through it.
Questions to resolve before ordering
How many copper ports are needed now and during the expected service life? Which devices require PoE? Will one or both SFP+ cages be used? What media and distance are involved? Is RouterOS or SwOS preferred? Where will inter-VLAN routing take place? Are redundant uplinks or power sources required? Who will configure, monitor and support the device?
These answers affect the switch quantity, optic selection, cabling, router choice, configuration scope and support plan.
When another option may be better
Choose a PoE-capable switch when many connected endpoints need switch-supplied power. Consider a switch with more SFP+ or higher-speed ports when the design has multiple 10G servers or fibre links. Use a dedicated router or firewall when high-volume routing, VPN, security inspection or sophisticated policy control is central to the requirement.
FourTeck can help compare the CRS326 with nearby MikroTik switch models and complementary routing or security equipment without assuming that one model fits every site.
Procurement checklist
How FourTeck can assist
FourTeck can review the intended network role, estimate access-port growth, identify whether PoE is required, and help define SFP/SFP+ modules or direct-attach cables for the uplinks. The requirement review can also cover rack placement, power sources, VLAN structure, management preference, switch configuration, documentation and the need for a dedicated router, firewall or PoE switch.
For a more accurate quotation, share the exact quantity, destination, desired timeline, connected-device list, rack details, uplink endpoints and cable distances. Where installation or configuration is required, include this in the request rather than assuming it is part of the hardware price. Buyers can browse related business technology products, review available network and security services, or contact FourTeck with the project requirement.
UAE availability and support guidance
Contact FourTeck to confirm current UAE availability for the MikroTik CRS326-24G-2S+RM. Availability can vary with quantity, supplier position, hardware revision, regional channel, vendor lead time and the accessories needed for the final bill of materials. A complete request should distinguish the base switch from SFP/SFP+ modules, direct-attach cables, fibre patch cords, rack accessories, UPS equipment, installation and configuration services.
Delivery and project coordination can be discussed after the exact requirement is confirmed. Warranty coverage, return procedures and support arrangements should be stated in the quotation applicable to the supplied unit. FourTeck can coordinate requirements for businesses in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Ajman through one combined planning conversation, helping multi-site buyers keep model selection, configuration standards and documentation consistent. Visit the FourTeck firewall and networking portal for related infrastructure guidance.
GCC Availability
FourTeck can assist GCC organisations that are evaluating the CRS326-24G-2S+RM for an office, branch, campus, surveillance or infrastructure project. The discussion can cover switch quantity, port utilisation, SFP+ uplinks, optic selection, configuration scope, installation planning and associated router or PoE requirements. Requests may be coordinated for the United Arab Emirates and other GCC markets such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman, but product availability, licensing context, delivery schedules, service visits and vendor lead times can vary by country, quantity and project condition. Buyers should provide the destination country, exact model, required quantity, preferred delivery window, deployment location and any configuration or support expectations. FourTeck can then help structure a suitable quotation and regional coordination plan. No local inventory, fixed delivery period or installation date should be assumed until confirmed in writing. For Kuwait-related enquiries, buyers may also review FourTeck Kuwait technology information.
Africa Availability
Organisations planning deployments in Africa can contact FourTeck for help evaluating the CRS326 switch, suitable optics, related routers, PoE equipment and configuration requirements. Regional procurement planning may need to account for the destination, equipment quantity, fibre standard, power environment, rack conditions, shipping arrangements, vendor lead time and local installation resources. This is particularly important for distributed branches where a consistent configuration and spare strategy may be more valuable than buying isolated units without documentation. Buyers should share the destination country, exact model and quantity, target deployment schedule, uplink design, desired support level and any onsite expectations. FourTeck can then advise on quotation coordination and the information needed for fulfilment. Availability and onsite scope are not automatically identical across East, West, Central or Southern Africa. Visit FourTeck Africa, FourTeck Kenya or FourTeck Uganda for regional enquiry routes.
Related products and services to consider
PoE access switching
Consider a MikroTik PoE switch when cameras, phones or access points must receive power through the network cable. Port power budget and standards must be checked.
MikroTik router or edge gateway
A dedicated router may be required for internet edge functions, higher routing throughput, VPN services, advanced queues or separation between network zones.
SFP and SFP+ modules
Select modules according to speed, wavelength, fibre type, connector, distance and compatibility. Do not treat all optics as interchangeable.
Network configuration support
Include VLANs, trunks, uplink aggregation, management security, backups, monitoring and handover documentation in the project scope where needed.
Rack and power planning
Review cabinet depth, ventilation, patch panels, cable management, UPS capacity and the option of dual power-input methods before installation.
Firewall integration
Pair access switching with an appropriately sized security gateway where traffic inspection, VPN, internet control and network-zone policy are required.
Why businesses contact FourTeck
The value of procurement support is not limited to locating a part number. Businesses contact FourTeck to clarify whether the port mix fits the project, identify missing optics and cables, compare PoE and non-PoE alternatives, review rack and power needs, and determine whether routing should remain on a separate device. This reduces the risk of receiving a switch that is technically correct but incomplete for the intended installation.
FourTeck can also help define the bill of materials, quotation scope, configuration tasks, migration approach and handover expectations. Multi-site buyers may need consistent naming, VLANs, software versions and backup procedures. Project owners may need hardware supply coordinated with cabling, rack work and firewall changes. These requirements should be captured before ordering so commercial and technical expectations remain aligned. Learn more about FourTeck’s business technology approach.
Frequently asked questions
Does the CRS326-24G-2S+RM provide PoE output?
No. It supports passive PoE input as one way to power the switch, but its twenty-four Ethernet ports do not supply PoE to connected devices. Phones, cameras and access points need separate power, injectors or a PoE-capable switch.
Can both SFP+ ports run at 10 Gigabit?
The model has two SFP+ cages intended for compatible 10G SFP+ connections and they can also accept supported 1.25G SFP modules. The actual link requires compatible modules or cables at both ends and correct configuration.
Should I use RouterOS or SwOS?
Use SwOS when a focused switch-management interface meets the requirement. RouterOS may be preferred by teams that need MikroTik’s broader feature set or familiar WinBox and WebFig workflows. The choice depends on required features and administrator experience.
Is this switch suitable as the main internet router?
It can perform routing functions under RouterOS, but buyers should not assume it will replace a dedicated router or firewall for demanding workloads. Required throughput, packet size, rules, queues, VPN and security functions should be assessed first.
Are SFP+ modules included?
The manufacturer’s included-parts list identifies the power adapter, rack ears and screw set. Required SFP/SFP+ modules, direct-attach cables and fibre patch leads should be specified separately in the quotation.
Can the switch be installed on a desk?
The device is designed for rackmount use and includes rack ears, although the manual also states that it may be placed on a desktop. In either case, keep it indoors, dry, ventilated and protected from accidental cable or power disturbance.
What details are needed for a quotation?
Provide the model, quantity, destination, required date, number of connected devices, PoE needs, uplink speed, fibre or copper distance, preferred optics, rack details and whether configuration or installation assistance is required.
Is the CRS326-24G-2S+RM available in Dubai?
Contact FourTeck to confirm current Dubai and UAE availability. Supplier position, quantity, accessories and vendor lead time can affect fulfilment, so availability should be confirmed against the exact request.
What warranty applies?
Warranty terms can depend on the supplying channel and quotation. Ask FourTeck to confirm the applicable coverage, process and documentation for the units offered before purchase.
Confirm the switch, uplinks and deployment scope
Send FourTeck your port plan, PoE requirements, SFP+ link details, quantity and destination. The team can help prepare a clearer hardware and service quotation for your Dubai or regional project.
