Outdoor network deployments often fail for simple reasons: power is difficult to deliver, uplinks are limited, and the hardware is not built for harsh environments. The MikroTik CRS318-1Fi-15Fr-2S-OUT also known as netPower 15FR, is designed to solve those issues with 15 reverse PoE input ports, one passive PoE output port, and two SFP uplinks in an outdoor-ready enclosure.
Why outdoor network design is difficult
In poles, rooftops, cabinets, and remote distribution points, traditional switches can be expensive to power and difficult to maintain. Installers often need separate power lines, extra equipment, or complex wiring just to keep a small edge network running. This MikroTik model simplifies the setup by allowing power to be received through PoE on multiple ports, reducing infrastructure complexity.
What this switch solves
The CRS318-1Fi-15Fr-2S-OUT is built for reverse PoE scenarios, meaning it can take in power over Ethernet instead of requiring a conventional local power source for every installation point. It also includes one PoE-out port, so it can power another device directly, which is especially useful for wireless links and remote nodes. With two SFP ports, it gives you fiber uplink flexibility when copper is not the best choice.
Built for GPEN and edge access
MikroTik positions this device for GPEN-style deployments, where fiber backhaul and Ethernet access are combined to deliver connectivity efficiently over outdoor infrastructure. That makes it a practical choice for ISPs, building owners, and network integrators who need a compact outdoor switch for distributed access points or subscriber lines. Its outdoor-ready design also helps reduce the need for protective enclosures in many installations.
Performance and management
The switch offers 16 Fast Ethernet ports and two SFP slots, with a switching capacity of 7.2 Gbps, a non-blocking throughput of 3.6 Gbps, and a forwarding rate of 5.4 Mpps. It supports dual boot, so administrators can choose between RouterOS and SwOS depending on the desired level of routing or switching control. That flexibility makes it easier to adapt the device to different deployment models and technical skill levels.
Power and efficiency
The unit runs from 18–57V DC and has a maximum power draw of 29W, which keeps operating costs modest for an outdoor managed switch. The reverse PoE ports are especially valuable when power sources are limited and you want to centralize energy delivery from the network side. This makes the device attractive for cost-sensitive deployments where minimizing cabling and power hardware matters.
Best use cases
- Outdoor ISP edge networks.
- GPEN access and subscriber distribution.
- Rooftop or mast-mounted network nodes.
- Remote wireless bridge installations.
- Fibre-to-Ethernet distribution points.
If your project needs a reliable outdoor switch that can simplify power delivery and provide fiber uplinks, the MikroTik CRS318-1Fi-15Fr-2S-OUT is a strong fit. It combines reverse PoE, PoE-out capability, and SFP connectivity in one outdoor-focused platform, helping reduce installation complexity without sacrificing flexibility. For providers and network installers, that can mean faster deployment and cleaner infrastructure.