MikroTik hEX S Gigabit Ethernet Router with SFP Port - Compact SOHO

In this review the MikroTik hEX S (RB760iGS) is evaluated as a compact wired router for small offices and advanced home networks; its single biggest reason to buy is raw wired throughput and configurability in a very small, affordable package. The hEX S provides five Gigabit Ethernet ports plus a 1.25G SFP cage, a dual core 880 MHz CPU and 256 MB of RAM running RouterOS, so it handles advanced routing, VPNs and traffic shaping without the need for wireless radios. For anyone who needs reliable gigabit wired routing and IPsec acceleration in a discreet metal case, this model delivers.

Key Features

• Five Gigabit Ethernet ports: Provides full gigabit connectivity for wired devices and uplinks to a switch or modem with consistent throughput.
• SFP cage (1.25G): Adds fiber or high-speed copper SFP uplink flexibility for networks that require longer runs or fiber backhaul.
• Dual core 880 MHz CPU and 256 MB RAM: Supplies the processing power needed for RouterOS features, traffic rules and multiple concurrent services.
• PoE output on port 5: Powers a downstream device such as a camera or access point, reducing the need for a separate power adapter.
• IPsec hardware encryption (~470 Mbps): Enables high-speed site-to-site VPN performance without saturating the CPU for encrypted tunnels.
• microSD and USB 2.0: Offers improved r/w file storage and support for The Dude server or logs without relying solely on internal flash.

Who It's For

The hEX S is best for SOHO users, small office networks and advanced home labs that require reliable wired performance and a flexible OS. Network administrators who want a compact router with a dedicated SFP uplink and hardware-accelerated IPsec will appreciate its balance of price and capability.

It is less suited for users who need built-in wireless access, plug-and-play simplicity for non-technical consumers, or those wanting an all-in-one home gateway with ISP-provided Wi-Fi. Casual users who prefer GUI-only configuration without a learning curve may prefer a consumer router with simplified firmware.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Powerful routing performance from a dual core 880 MHz CPU and 256 MB RAM, suitable for advanced configurations.
• Versatile connectivity with 5x Gigabit Ethernet, a 1.25G SFP cage and PoE output on port 5 for downstream devices.
• Hardware IPsec encryption delivers roughly 470 Mbps for secure site-to-site VPNs without major CPU load.
• Expandable storage via microSD and USB for logs, backups and The Dude server.

Cons

• Not a wireless device, so a separate access point is required if Wi-Fi is needed.
• The powerful RouterOS feature set can present a steep learning curve for users unfamiliar with advanced network configuration.

Specifications

Model	hEX S (RB760iGS)
Ethernet	5x Gigabit Ethernet ports
SFP	1.25Gbit/s SFP cage
CPU / RAM	Dual core 880 MHz CPU, 256 MB RAM
Interfaces	USB 2.0, microSD slot
PoE	PoE output on Ethernet port 5
Software	RouterOS Level 4 with IPsec hardware encryption and The Dude support

Our Verdict

The MikroTik hEX S is a compact, cost-effective wired router that excels for small offices and advanced home networks needing gigabit routing, an SFP uplink and hardware-accelerated IPsec. It represents solid value where wireless is not required, though buyers should be comfortable with RouterOS or plan to pair it with a simpler access point for Wi-Fi.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this router support VPN encryption at line speeds?
Yes, the hEX S includes IPsec hardware encryption capable of around 470 Mbps for site-to-site VPNs.

Can it power other devices via PoE?
Yes, the device offers PoE output on Ethernet port 5 to supply power to a downstream powered device.

Is wireless included?
No, the hEX S is a wired router only; add a separate access point for Wi-Fi.