Most Cloud Router Switches are Layer 3 devices and a few are only Layer 2, some models can also be booted with RouterOS or SwitchOS.

MikroTik's Cloud Router Switch (CRS) series devices offer switch and router functionality, meaning they can operate at both Layer 2 (data link) and Layer 3 (network) of the OSI model. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind when comparing a CRS to a traditional Layer 3 switch:

Configuration Flexibility

CRS devices are designed to be highly configurable. Using RouterOS, MikroTik's operating system, a CRS can be configured to perform a wide range of routing and switching tasks, going beyond what many Layer 3 switches offer.

Routing Performance

While CRSs are capable of performing inter-VLAN routing and other Layer 3 tasks, it is important to note that routing performance may not be the same as devices specifically designed for high-performance routing, such as those in the Cloud series. MikroTik Core Router (CCR). This is because CRS hardware is optimized for high-performance switching rather than routing.

Layer 3 Features

CRSs include support for various Layer 3 functions, such as static routing, OSPF, and VLAN mapping over Layer 3 interfaces, among others. This makes them suitable for certain routing scenarios in environments where a Layer 3 switch would be used.

Design Purpose

Although CRSs can be used as Layer 3 switches, their design is intended to offer a versatile solution that balances routing and switching functionalities, making them unique compared to pure Layer 3 switches that are optimized solely for tasks. routing.

In conclusion

While a MikroTik CRS device shares some functionality with a traditional Layer 3 switch, its performance on specific routing tasks may differ due to the nature of its hardware and software.

They are excellent for scenarios where both efficient Layer 2 switching and basic to moderate Layer 3 routing capabilities are required, offering a very flexible solution thanks to the capabilities of RouterOS.