MikroTik equipment identified as RB, CCR and CRS have differences in Hardware and Software. Regarding the Software differences, the RB and CCR devices have a RouterOS system, the CRS devices have a RouterOS and SwitchOS system, the CRS can exchange operating systems.

Regarding the Hardware differences, the RB and CCR devices are used for the main routing functions but the CCRs have a greater CPU capacity, while the CRS are mainly used for Switching functions with routing features but have a lower CPU capacity. CPU compared to RB and CCR computers.

MikroTik equipment is classified into several series, each designed for different uses and application scenarios. The RB (RouterBOARD), CCR (Cloud Core Router) and CRS (Cloud Router Switch) series are three of the best known.

1. RouterBOARD (RB)

• General use: The RB series is designed for a wide range of applications, from home and small office use to more complex deployments in midsize businesses.
• Variety: Includes a wide variety of models with different processing capabilities, connectivity options (wireless and wired), and price ranges. This makes the RB series very versatile.
• Hardware: Hardware varies significantly within the series, from basic models to more advanced ones with more powerful processors and more ports.
• Software: They run RouterOS, MikroTik's operating system, offering a wide range of routing, firewall, VPN, QoS functionalities, among others.

2. Cloud Core Router (CCR)

• High performance: CCRs are designed for operations that demand high performance. They are ideal for data centers, ISPs (Internet Service Providers) and large networks that require intense data processing.
• Powerful Processors: They use Tilera processors, which can handle a higher number of packets per second, making them suitable for high-traffic applications.
• Advanced Routing Capability: They offer advanced routing and traffic management capabilities, supporting a large number of simultaneous connections and offering high performance in data processing.
• No Wireless Features: Unlike many RB models, CCRs focus exclusively on routing performance and do not include wireless functionality.

3. Cloud Router Switch (CRS)

• Focus on Switching: CRSs are designed primarily for switching tasks with some routing capabilities. They are ideal for anyone who needs a manageable switch with some routing features.
• Flexibility: They offer a good mix of routing performance and switch capabilities, making them suitable for use in enterprise networks where both functions are required.
• Dual Software: They can run RouterOS or SwOS, depending on whether the focus is on routing or switching, respectively. This allows users to optimize the device to their specific needs.
• Variety of Ports: They have a wide range of models with different port configurations, in many cases supporting high network speeds, such as 10Gbps and more.

Conclusion

The choice between RB, CCR, and CRS depends on the specific usage, network size, processing needs, and budget.

RBs are versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications, CCRs are for users who need high performance data processing and advanced routing, and CRSs are ideal when looking for a primarily switching solution with some routing functionality.