Are you looking for a network interface processor for professional IT infrastructure? In this guide, we will help you choose the right model. A network interface processor is a chip or module responsible for processing network traffic at the hardware level, offloading the main processor. It performs routing, switching, VLAN handling, and VPN encryption. Choosing the right network interface processor is crucial for the performance and security of IT infrastructure.
It is a hardware component that connects a device to the network. The network interface processor takes over data packet handling tasks from the CPU. It can take the form of a dedicated chip in the device, a removable card, or a complete RouterBOARD board. SmartNICs and DPUs offer hardware acceleration for encryption and traffic management, enhancing the performance of networks and servers. The network interface processor offloads the main processor from handling network traffic.
RouterBOARD is a modular board with a network processor, Ethernet ports, and miniPCI or miniPCIe expansion slots. It allows for expansion with WiFi modules, 3G/LTE modems, and sector antennas, while also maintaining compatibility with UART, SPI, and USB interfaces. Selected WiFi modules can operate in dual-band mode at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. They also support MU-MIMO and Target Wake Time, facilitating efficient communication and easier integration in modern deployments. Built-in WPA3 mechanisms further enhance the security of such installations.
miniPCI/miniPCIe Slots – allow connection of WiFi modules (Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 6), LTE/5G modems, and GPS. MiniPCIe transmits data faster than miniPCI.
Ethernet Ports – range from slower Fast Ethernet (10/100 Mb/s), through Gigabit Ethernet, to fibre optic SFP/SFP+ ports for even higher speeds. Where the highest performance is needed, additional chips are used to accelerate network operation.
PoE Power Supply – powers devices through the network cable, without a separate power supply. Standards vary in power: 802.3af provides 15.4 W, 802.3at up to 30 W, and 802.3bt even 60–90 W.
USB Ports – used for connecting 3G/LTE modems, external drives, and other devices. Whether a device has them depends on its design and purpose.
MikroTik offers a wide range of RouterBOARD network processors with various CPUs, Gigabit Ethernet ports, miniPCIe slots, and PoE options. Devices in this series are designed for various applications, available in many variants on the market, and include solutions intended for both simple deployments and more demanding environments. The RouterOS system with licensing from Level 3 to 6 allows for functionality to be tailored to needs – from simple access points to complex ISP and WISP networks.
It is a chip or module that takes over data packet handling tasks from the CPU, increasing the performance and functionality of the network. It can exist as a chip, an expansion card, or a RouterBOARD board.
RouterBOARD is a modular platform that allows for the integration of additional modules and operates through various methods of expansion and interface connection, which increases flexibility and scalability compared to ready-made, fixed routers. Compatibility with additional devices and modules depends on the chosen configuration.
PoE transmits power and data over a single Ethernet cable. The IEEE 802.3af, 802.3at, and 802.3bt standards differ in power supply. Passive PoE requires voltage compliance to avoid damage.
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