MikroTik CRS317-1G-16S+RM Smart Switch: The Go-To Fiber Switch in Kenya

Looking to upgrade your network for your internet business, data center, or company in Kenya? Check out the MikroTik CRS317-1G-16S+RM Smart Switch. This switch has 1 Gigabit Ethernet port and 16 SFP+ ports.

This switch comes in a 1U rackmount size. It’s powered by a Marvell Prestera 98DX3236 chip, a dual-core ARM CPU (800MHz), 256MB of RAM, and RouterOS v7 for managing your network at different levels.

You can find it for around from sellers like Phoenix Technologies, Digital Store Kenya, and CTC Solutions. It can handle up to 320Gbps of data and supports 10G fiber connections. This makes it great for Kenya’s growing internet businesses and smaller companies that need more bandwidth and stable power.

Let’s get into the details, benefits, and buying tips for Kenyan users who might be dealing with limited resources and tight budgets.

Why the MikroTik CRS317-1G-16S+RM is a Great Pick for Kenya

The MikroTik CRS317-1G-16S+RM came out in 2021. It’s a fiber switch made for businesses and internet providers. It has 16 10G SFP+ ports for fiber modules (up to 10km) and 1 Gigabit RJ45 port for regular copper cables.

The Marvell Prestera 98DX3236 chip gives it a solid 320Gbps switching capacity, 16K MAC addresses, and RouterOS v7 for VLANs, QoS, and L3 routing. The 1U rackmount design lets you stack it in crowded server rooms, and the dual power supplies (AC/DC or PoE) make sure it stays running even if one power source fails.

In Kenya, you can get fast fiber internet in cities, but it’s not always available in places like Eldoret or Kisumu. The CRS317-1G-16S+RM (KES 45,000–55,000) can handle 10G connections for up to 16 devices, which is good for businesses or internet providers needing to handle a lot of data. It cools itself without fans and uses only 25W of power. Plus, RouterOS has a console port for easy troubleshooting. Lots of these switches are sold in Kenya each year, making it a popular choice for data centers and backbone links.

Specs: The Power of Fiber Switching

Here’s what you need to know about the MikroTik CRS317-1G-16S+RM:

These specs make the CRS317-1G-16S+RM a solid, easy-to-manage switch for Kenya’s fiber network needs.

Why Kenyan Users Will Love It

1. Fast Data Handling: The chip gives you 320Gbps, which means it can handle a lot of data at once.
2. Fiber Expansion: The SFP+ ports work with fiber modules, so you can easily upgrade your network.
3. Reliable Power: Dual power supplies make sure your network stays up even if there’s a power outage.
4. Advanced Network Management: RouterOS v7 lets you control traffic, set up virtual networks, and more.
5. Quiet Operation: It cools itself without fans, so it’s silent.
6. Easy Install: PoE-in means you can power it with an Ethernet cable, reducing clutter.
7. Compact Size: The 1U rackmount design saves space.
8. Good Value: It’s cheaper than new, and the RAM is good enough for all v7 features.

Why It’s a Good Fit for Kenya

Kenya needs high-density fiber switches for businesses and internet providers, and this switch fits the bill:

• Good Price: You get a lot for your money.
• Targets the Right People: People searching for this switch are usually serious buyers.
• Mobile-Friendly: It works well with 4G/5G setups.

Compared to the Competition

Here’s how it compares to other switches:

• vs Cisco Catalyst: The Cisco is more advanced, but the MikroTik is much cheaper.
• vs Ubiquiti UniFi: The UniFi is easy to use, but the MikroTik has more SFP+ ports and can handle more data.

The CRS317-1G-16S+RM gives you the most ports, speed, and value for your money.

Who Should Buy It?

• ISPs/SMEs: Businesses needing fast fiber connections.
• Data Centers: Providers needing a lot of SFP+ ports in a small space.
• Enterprises: Companies wanting to manage their networks with RouterOS.

If you need wireless, this isn’t for you.

FAQs

• How much does it cost? KES 45,000–55,000
• Can I upgrade it? Yes, with 10G modules and RouterOS updates.
• How fast is it? 320Gbps
• Is it good for fiber? Yes, it has 16 SFP+ ports.
• What’s the warranty? 1 year.
• Does it work with Kenya’s power? Yes.

Where to Buy

Check Phoenix Technologies, Digital Store Kenya, and CTC Solutions. Look for deals and demos.

Tips for Buying

• Check the software: Make sure it has RouterOS v7 and SFP+ support.
• Add fiber modules: Get 10G SFP+ modules for fiber.
• Shop around: Compare prices and warranties.

How It Helps You

An internet provider can use it to handle a lot of data for clients. A business can use it for stable power and prioritize important traffic. Data centers can stack it easily and manage their networks.

Why Phoenix Technologies?

They’re a trusted seller with fast delivery, warranty, and local support.

Is It Worth It?

Yes, if you need a high-density fiber switch in Kenya. It’s fast, reliable, and a good value.

Get Yours Today!

Don’t let slow networking hold you back. Get the MikroTik CRS317-1G-16S+RM from Phoenix Technologies now!