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My use of the Mikrotik CCR2004-16G-2S+PC 16-Port Gigabit Ethernet Router (2024)
Introduction
I recently upgraded my small business network with a MikroTik CCR2004 router, and the experience has been excellent. With its impressive specifications and potential for enhanced performance, this router attracted me. It not only met but exceeded my expectations, increasing operational efficiency daily.
Specifications
| Property | Value | Property | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | MikroTik | Special Feature | WPS |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer | Frequency | 1200 MHz |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Office, Home | Connectivity Technology | Ethernet |
| Color | Black | Item Weight | 3 Pounds |
| Operating System | RouterOS | Number of Ports | 18 |
Photos
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Prices
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Intro to the Router
As a network enthusiast, the discovery of the MikroTik CCR2004 came as a revelation to me. My initial impressions of this quiet workhorse were marked by the Amazon Annapurna Labs Alpine v2 CPU and the expansive 18 wired ports. The integration of 4GB DDR4 RAM and 128MB NAND storage suggests a robust foundation for any small to medium-sized business network.
Utilizing this router has streamlined the complexities of my home network:
16x Gigabit Ethernet ports allowed for seamless internal connectivity.
2x 10G SFP+ cages provided high-speed uplink and downlink options.
An RJ-45 console port enhanced management capabilities.
Full wire-speed throughput without CPU bottlenecks.
The setup, however, wasn’t without its hitches. This isn’t your plug-and-play SOHO device. It took some learning to navigate the RouterOS, but it has been rewarding. The WPS feature, typically straightforward in consumer routers, here requires a deeper understanding but offers superior control once mastered.
I’ve noticed how the device heats up, especially the power source, which could potentially lead to resets if not ventilated properly. Additionally, while my router arrived in good condition, hearing about others receiving damp units or ones that seemed previously used does raise concerns about quality assurance.
There’s a stark difference in performance when compared to my previous setups - my fiber connection is now fully utilized with maximum speeds always at my fingertips. The system stability and CPU efficiency, peaking at merely 2-3% load, ensures that my complex VLAN and multiple AP setup remains flawlessly operational.
To sum up, the CCR2004 by MikroTik is a high-capacity, dependable router, designed with heavy-duty tasks in mind. It’s an absolute game-changer for those ready to venture beyond basic networking, provided you are prepared to tackle its steep learning curve. The RouterOS offers a versatile and powerful interface for those who demand more from their network infrastructure. While there are some minor quality concerns and a need for better heat management, it stands as an excellent investment for its target demographic, balancing cost with performance in a way few other routers do.
Technical Specifications
The MikroTik CCR2004 router’s technical prowess really shines when you delve into its specifications. As someone who constantly battles with network stability and speed, the router’s features stand out for their reliability and efficiency.
CPU and Processing Power: Equipped with an Amazon Annapurna Labs Alpine v2 CPU and 4x 64-bit ARMv8-A Cortex-A57 cores, this machine can clock up to 1.2 GHz. This translates to a significant performance bump compared to previous models.
Memory Specifications: The device comes with 4GB of DDR4 RAM and 128MB of NAND storage, ensuring smooth operation and ample space for RouterOS software updates and configurations.
Port Versatility: With 18 wired ports, including 16x Gigabit Ethernet ports and two 10G SFP+ cages, I’m provided with extensive connectivity options for various devices and network segments.
Noiseless Operation: I appreciate the fact that it runs quietly. No more annoying fan sounds in my workspace, which makes for a less stressful environment.
Physical Build: It has a solid build and at 3 pounds, it feels robust yet not overly cumbersome.
Operating System: Running on RouterOS, which is feature-rich and offers immense flexibility, albeit there is a learning curve that beginners might find challenging.
Here’s how I would weigh the highlights:
Pros:
High-performing CPU provides speed and reliability.
Ample RAM and storage for advanced networking tasks.
Plenty of ports catering to a variety of networking needs with speed.
Quiet in operation, meaning it can fit in any work environment.
RouterOS offers a deep level of customization and control.
Cons:
The software may be too complex for those unfamiliar with advanced networking setups.
Overheating issues have been noted with the power supply, though personally, I haven’t encountered this.
There have been reports of the router arriving in less-than-ideal conditions, such as damp packaging or signs of previous use, which could indicate shipping or quality control problems, although my unit was pristine.
For those who use their routers extensively like I do, tackling tasks such as managing multiple VLANs, setting up firewalls, and optimizing fiber connections, the CCR2004 is a beast that can handle heavy loads effortlessly. Traffic peaks barely tickle the CPU load, which speaks volumes about its processing capability. This powerhouse maintains stability and full-speed connectivity across my entire setup, a godsend for demanding home networks or small to mid-sized business applications.
My experience is different regarding the complexity – while some may find the RouterOS a bit daunting, I see it as a playground for network customization. The ability to separate internet, IPTV, and VoIP traffic efficiently truly showcases the router’s versatility, something I’d consider a major plus for networking enthusiasts.
Overall, the MikroTik CCR2004 stands as a testament to what a high-capacity, reasonably priced router can achieve. Despite the steep learning curve for RouterOS and the few issues reported by other users, the robustness, power, and quiet operation make it a worthy consideration for my networking needs.
Operational Performance
Working with the MikroTik CCR2004 has genuinely been a game-changer for my small business networking needs. After experiencing the responsive interface and extensive control options provided by the RouterOS firmware, I feel the following features notably contributed to its operational performance:
The Amazon Annapurna Labs Alpine v2 CPU ensures smooth and uninterrupted processing even under heavy usage.
With 4GB of DDR4 RAM, the system maintains its speed and reliability despite numerous concurrent tasks.
Its 18 wired ports give leeway to handle complex setups without needing an additional switch.
However, to provide an even-handed perspective, not all aspects are without their issues. I’ve noticed the power supply tends to heat up, causing some concerns about longevity and reliability. Plus, the learning curve is steep, making this router more suited for those already familiar with network configurations rather than novices.
I was particularly impressed with the router’s ability to handle multiple VLANs with ease. Before, network connectivity drops were a regular annoyance; however, with my current configuration on this device, including the multiple APs and switches, it’s been nothing but smooth sailing. The 10G SFP+ ports offer a significant uplift in potential uplink and downlink speeds, perfect for fiber connections.
Here’s a quick rundown of significant insights:
The CPU handles load efficiently, peaking at around 2-3% utilization during intense tasks—showcasing the excellent optimization of resources.
Full speed connectivity is achieved consistently, marking an end to the days of sporadic slowdowns.
While it’s a powerful enterprise solution, it’s not plug-and-play; if you’re not up for a setup challenge, you might want to consider other options.
In my usage scenario, plugging the fiber module directly into the router paved the way for an astonishingly stable and rapid network. The same goes for when I diversified usage to span internet, IPTV, and VoIP services, running them through the WAN of another Wi-Fi router.
Though, a downside worth mentioning is that my unit arrived with less-than-ideal packaging, and there were signs suggesting it wasn’t fresh off the production line. However, despite these initial hiccups, the sheer operational prowess of the MikroTik CCR2004 has left me thoroughly satisfied. It’s a perfect blend of flexibility, power, and stability—all coveted characteristics for a robust business network setup.
While not entirely devoid of drawbacks, its premium performance easily overshadows these minor issues, making it an invaluable asset to my networking arsenal.
Value and Conclusion
In my time using the MikroTik CCR2004, I’ve found that my small business demands are met with remarkable ease. It’s no surprise that a solid router can make a world of difference in connectivity and network management. Here’s how my experience breaks down:
Pros:
The device is a silent powerhouse, a definite upgrade from its predecessors, without adding unnecessary noise.
With its 18 wired ports and dual 10G SFP+ cages, scalability is a non-issue.
RouterOS provides a comprehensive set of features for those who need customization.
Given the specs, it’s affordably priced within its market segment, offering strong value for money.
Cons:
The learning curve is steep if you’re transitioning from SOHO routers.
There were isolated reports of overheating power supplies and hardware issues, though my unit was unaffected.
I’ve noticed a significant difference in network stability and speed since integrating this unit into my setup. Utilizing advanced features like multiple VLANs, firewall rules, and effortless routing, I’ve barely scratched the surface of what the CCR2004 can handle, with CPU usage typically peaking at a mere 2-3%. The full speeds experienced reinforce the idea that this router is truly an all-in-one solution for business owners who demand reliability without complexity.
The black color is sleek and unobtrusive in an office setting. It’s not often that the aesthetics of networking hardware gets mentioned, but the design does lend a professional air to wherever it’s installed. The 3-pound weight also makes it easy enough to mount without extra support.
While it’s a godsend for tech-savvy users, novices might find the amount of configuration options daunting. It’s a double-edged sword: versatility on one hand but potential complexity for the uninitiated. If you’re unfamiliar with networks beyond basic setups, be prepared for a learning journey with RouterOS.
The connectivity technology and the frequencies available through this router ensure that it is compatible with a range of devices and network configurations, from personal computers to more complex office arrangements. It’s also reassuring to know that the product support and community on forums like MikroTik’s official forum can help guide through any issues that may arise.
Overall, I’m very satisfied with the MikroTik CCR2004. While the tangible benefits of increased speed and stability cannot be understated, the potential for hardware issues—something I fortunately didn’t encounter—tells me that quality assurance can be a gamble. That said, for anyone looking to scale up their network without astronomical costs or cumbersome noise, I’d recommend giving the CCR2004 serious consideration. It’s more than just a router—it’s a centerpiece for business networking needs.