The MikroTik Cloud Core Router CCR2004-1G-2XS-PCIe merges the efficiency of a high-speed networking card with the advanced functionalities of a full-fledged router, designed for integration directly into server systems. This innovative device optimizes server room space by embedding significant routing capabilities and Ethernet connectivity into a single PCIe card. It is ideally suited for data centers, large enterprises, and multimedia studios that require integrated, high-performance network management solutions without additional space consumption.

CCR2004-1G-2XS-PCIe is not just a network interface card (NIC) but a powerful router housed within a PCIe form factor. It features a quad-core ARMv8 64-bit processor operating at 1.5 GHz and is equipped with 4 GB of RAM and 128 MB of NAND storage, ensuring robust performance for complex network tasks.

Includes one Gigabit Ethernet port alongside two 25G SFP28 ports, facilitating ultra-fast network connections directly from the server. By default, the PCIe interface manifests as four virtual Ethernet interfaces—two in passthrough mode linked directly to the 25G SFP28 cages and two virtual Ethernet-PCIe interfaces bridged with the Gigabit Ethernet port for streamlined management access. The user can configure all interfaces and settings freely since we are running fully functional RouterOS.

Running MikroTik's RouterOS v7, this device offers full router capabilities including firewall, traffic control, and user management. It supports advanced configurations, allowing users to utilize this PCIe card for a variety of network tasks typically reserved for standalone routers.

The introduction of Passthrough mode permits the device to operate as an NIC, using FastForward FastPath technology to also pass hardware link statuses, achieving wire-speed (100Gbps) with Jumbo frames and ensuring it will not become a bottleneck in most server setups.

One key operational note is the boot-up time required by the CCR NIC card, which is longer than typical ASIC-based setups. If the host system powers up before the CCR card, the device might not immediately appear among the available devices. It is recommended to configure a PCIe device initialization delay in the BIOS settings or re-initialize the PCIe devices from the host system as needed.

This compact device includes a single fan for cooling, designed to maintain optimal operating temperatures from -20°C to 60°C. Fully compliant with CE, EAC, and ROHS standards and rated at IP20 for its enclosure, ensuring adherence to safety and environmental regulations. The CCR2004-1G-2XS-PCIe boasts an MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures) of approximately 200,000 hours at 25°C, highlighting its durability and reliability for long-term operation. Furthermore, the device consumes up to 29 watts under maximum load and with 22 watts consumed without attachments, making it an energy-efficient choice for network management within server environments.

In addition, CCR2004-1G-2XS-PCIe features advanced monitoring capabilities essential for maintaining optimal performance and hardware health. It includes a CPU temperature monitor to prevent overheating, a current monitor for real-time power consumption insights, a PCB temperature monitor to detect thermal hotspots, and a voltage monitor to ensure stable power delivery to all components. These tools are crucial for preventing hardware issues and ensuring the router operates within safe operational parameters, thereby enhancing system reliability and efficiency.