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MikroTik RB260GS 5x Gigabit Ethernet Smart Switch
Key Features
Brand: MikroTik
Product Code: CSS106-5G-1S
Switch Chip Model: QCA8337
Dimensions: 113x139x28mm
Operating System: MikroTik SwOS
Storage Size: 128 KB
Storage Type: FLASH
MTBF: Approximately 100,000 hours at 25°C
Tested Ambient Temperature: -20°C to 70°C
1 Year Warranty
MikroTik RB260GS 5x Gigabit Ethernet Smart Switch Review
The MikroTik RB260GS 5x Gigabit Ethernet Smart Switch (also known in the enterprise lineup as the CSS106-5G-1S) is a highly compact, low-cost desktop smart switch engineered for small offices, home labs, and multi-room network extensions. While it matches the small, plastic form factor of simple unmanaged desktop boxes, it sets itself apart by featuring a dedicated fiber port and running an intuitive, web-managed operating system designed for precise traffic control.
Powered by MikroTik’s purpose-built SwOS software, the RB260GS gives administrators essential managed layer-2 features without the price premium, steep learning curve, or power overhead of full enterprise-grade rackmount systems.
Hardware Infrastructure & Interface Layout
At the core of the MikroTik RB260GS is an efficient Taifatech TF600 switch chip paired with 96 KB of built-in SRAM. The hardware layout is meticulously optimized for desktop deployment or neat installation inside structured media cabinets.
The physical connectivity suite features:
- 5x Gigabit Ethernet Ports: Delivers full line-rate copper routing and interconnectivity across your local office devices.
- 1x 100/1000 Mbps SFP Cage: Provides a flexible fiber uplink path to safely extend network runs across long distances or isolate backbone links from electrical interference.
- Passive PoE-In: Port 1 can accept Passive PoE power (11-30V), allowing you to run the device off a central PoE injector or multi-port core switch without local wall plug access.
Technical Specifications Checklist
For accurate network mapping, power budgets, and physical enclosure design, hardware precision matters. Below is the technical breakdown for the RB260GS:
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Product Code | RB260GS (CSS106-5G-1S) |
| Switch Chip Model | Taifatech TF600 |
| Storage & Memory | 2 MB Flash / 96 KB SRAM |
| Ethernet Interfaces | 5x 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ45 Ports |
| Fiber Interface | 1x 1.25G SFP Cage (Supports 100M and 1G transceivers) |
| Operating System | MikroTik SwOS |
| Power Inputs | DC Jack & Passive PoE-In (11-30V) |
| Max Power Consumption | Highly efficient 5W maximum draw |
| Physical Dimensions | 113 mm x 89 mm x 28 mm |
Specialized Management with MikroTik SwOS
Unlike complex routers that run the extensive RouterOS platform, the RB260GS utilizes SwOS. This operating system is accessible entirely via an easy-to-use, web-based graphical interface that focuses purely on efficient switching capabilities.
Port-to-Port Forwarding & VLANs
Administrators can easily isolate specific network paths, block port-to-port communication for guest privacy, and configure IEEE 802.1Q virtual local area networks (VLANs) to split up business departments safely.
Traffic Control & Monitoring
SwOS provides clean, direct configuration tabs to apply MAC filters, mirror ingress or egress traffic for network packet analysis, and configure bandwidth speed limits directly on individual physical ports. It also supports IGMP Snooping to smoothly manage local IPTV or multicast video streams.
Key Limitations to Consider Before Buying
While the RB260GS offers phenomenal value, it is important to match its design with your network architecture demands:
- No Layer 3 Routing (No RouterOS): This is a managed smart switch, not a router. It cannot assign DHCP IP addresses, host VPN servers, run firewalls, or manage PPPoE broadband connections. It must be deployed alongside a dedicated router (like a MikroTik hEX).
- No PoE Out Capability: The device can be powered via PoE on Port 1, but none of its remaining ports output power to run external IP cameras or wireless access points.
- Standard SFP Only (No 10G SFP+): The fiber slot is capped at 1.25 Gbps speeds. If your infrastructure requires a 10 Gbps core fiber uplink backbone, you will need to scale up to a model like the MikroTik CRS305 or CRS112 series.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main difference between the RB260GS and the RB260GSP?
A: The RB260GS only accepts PoE power input. The alternative RB260GSP model features a slightly modified board that adds Passive PoE output capabilities onto ports 2 through 5 to power external devices.
A: The RB260GS only accepts PoE power input. The alternative RB260GSP model features a slightly modified board that adds Passive PoE output capabilities onto ports 2 through 5 to power external devices.
Q: Does it come with an SFP fiber transceiver module inside the box?
A: No. The switch provides an empty SFP cage. You will need to purchase a compatible multi-mode or single-mode SFP module (or a passive DAC cable) separately based on your specific fiber run distance.
A: No. The switch provides an empty SFP cage. You will need to purchase a compatible multi-mode or single-mode SFP module (or a passive DAC cable) separately based on your specific fiber run distance.
