MikroTik’s product lineup can seem extensive at first glance, but with a little clarity, the logic behind RB, CCR, and CRS becomes straightforward. Each series has a specific role within a network infrastructure, and selecting the correct one is critical for both performance and efficiency.


Product Families at a Glance

  • RB (RouterBOARD): Primarily routers designed for small-to-medium environments. They are cost-effective and suitable for home networks, small businesses, or branch offices. Some higher-end RB models, like the RB5009, provide excellent performance and can handle demanding environments.
  • CCR (Cloud Core Router): High-performance routers built for enterprise and service provider networks. Featuring multiple cores and higher throughput capabilities, CCR devices are intended for heavy routing tasks, BGP, MPLS, and large-scale VPN deployments.
  • CRS (Cloud Router Switch): Primarily Layer 2 switches with basic Layer 3 routing capabilities. While CRS units can perform light routing, their strength lies in switching tasks. They are ideal for aggregation points, edge switches, and scenarios where switching is the primary function, and routing is secondary.


Choosing the Right Device

  • RB Series: Best suited for small-scale routing, wireless distribution, and projects with moderate performance requirements.
  • CCR Series: Necessary when high throughput, extensive routing protocols, or handling complex network topologies is required.
  • CRS Series: Ideal where switching is the primary task, with limited routing responsibilities (e.g., VLAN segregation, inter-VLAN routing at low volumes).


Practical Considerations

  • Routing on CRS: CRS devices can route but are not designed or optimized for it. CPU resources are limited compared to dedicated routers.
  • RB Capabilities: Higher-end RB models offer impressive performance, sometimes making them a viable alternative to a CCR in smaller deployments.
  • CCR Cooling: High-performance CCR models generate significant heat. Proper rack ventilation and environmental management are necessary to maintain stability.


Choosing between an RB, CCR, and CRS depends entirely on network needs. Routers handle traffic direction, switches manage internal traffic efficiently, and high-end routers deliver performance at scale. Proper planning ensures that devices operate within their design specifications, optimizing both reliability and longevity.



For further information for understanding MikroTik's naming convention, check out the help page: https://help.mikrotik.com/docs/spaces/ROS/pages/17498146/Product+Naming