FTC21

MikroTik FTC21 Price in Kenya – 2.5G SFP Fiber-to-Copper Converter with SwOS LiteMikroTik FTC21 Price in Kenya

The MikroTik FTC21 is a compact, weatherproof Fiber-to-Copper converter designed to convert a 1G or 2.5G SFP fiber connection into Gigabit RJ45 Ethernet while adding smart network-management capabilities through SwOS Lite. Unlike a basic unmanaged media converter, the FTC21 includes its own Marvell 88E6341 switch chip, allowing administrators to monitor interfaces, configure VLANs, use SNMP, apply basic traffic shaping and create Access Control Lists. (MikroTik)

The FTC21 includes two 10/100/1000 Ethernet ports and one SFP slot supporting up to 2.5G, making it especially useful for ISPs, enterprise fiber networks, CCTV systems, hotels, campuses, apartment networks and building-to-building fiber installations. Its IP55 enclosure also makes it suitable for protected outdoor installations when mounted correctly. (MikroTik)

Powering is flexible. The FTC21 supports both a 24–57V DC jack and 24–57V IEEE 802.3af/at PoE input. Power consumption is very low at approximately 3W without attachments and 4W maximum. MikroTik currently lists the FTC21 at a suggested international price of US$59. (MikroTik)

For genuine MikroTik media converters, SFP modules, switches, routers and complete fiber-networking solutions, customers can source the FTC21 through Mikrotik Kenya.

MikroTik FTC21 Detailed SpecificationsSpecificationDetailsProduct CodeFTC21Product TypeManaged Fiber-to-Copper ConverterEthernet Ports2 × 10/100/1000 MbpsSFP Ports1Maximum SFP Speed2.5G supportedSwitch ChipMarvell 88E6341Operating SystemSwOS LitePoE-InIEEE 802.3af/atPoE-In Voltage24–57VDC Jack Input24–57VMaximum Power Consumption4WConsumption Without Attachments3WCoolingPassiveWeather ProtectionIP55Operating Temperature-40°C to +70°CMTBFApprox. 100,000 hours at 25°CDimensions254 × 97 × 35 mmVLAN SupportYesSNMPYesTraffic ShapingYesACL FilteringYesCertificationsCE, EAC, RoHSSuggested Manufacturer PriceUS$59

MikroTik's current product page confirms the two Gigabit Ethernet ports, 2.5G-capable SFP slot, 24–57V powering, IP55 enclosure and SwOS Lite management. (MikroTik)

What Is the MikroTik FTC21?

The FTC21 is a managed media converter.

Its primary job is to bridge a fiber link and copper Ethernet:

Fiber SFP → FTC21 → Gigabit RJ45 Ethernet

The difference between FTC21 and many simple media converters is that MikroTik adds switching and management functionality instead of merely converting the physical medium.

SwOS Lite gives administrators control over how traffic passes between the fiber and Ethernet interfaces, making the FTC21 suitable for more professional networks where VLANs, monitoring or packet filtering are required. (MikroTik)

Key Features of MikroTik FTC21

1. 2.5G-Capable SFP Interface

The FTC21 has one SFP slot supporting 1G and up to 2.5G operation. (MikroTik Help)

This gives installers more flexibility than a conventional Gigabit-only media converter.

Depending on the selected SFP transceiver, the FTC21 can be used with:

• Single-mode fiber

• Multimode fiber

• Short-distance fiber connections

• Longer building-to-building fiber links

• ISP distribution networks

• Enterprise backbone connections

The exact transmission distance depends primarily on the SFP module and fiber type selected.

2. Dual Gigabit Ethernet Ports

The FTC21 includes two 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet interfaces. (MikroTik Help)

This provides more flexibility than a traditional one-fiber-to-one-copper converter.

One Ethernet port can serve as the uplink or PoE input while another can connect the remote network device.

3. SwOS Lite Management

The FTC21 runs a full version of SwOS Lite.

MikroTik highlights capabilities including:

• Interface monitoring

• Interface management

• VLAN support

• SNMP

• Basic traffic shaping

• Advanced Access Control Lists

• Packet filtering

• Packet accounting

• VLAN tagging

(MikroTik)

These features make FTC21 suitable for managed enterprise and ISP environments where a basic plug-and-play media converter would offer too little control.

4. VLAN Support

VLAN support allows administrators to separate different types of traffic while using the same fiber infrastructure.

For example, a single fiber link could transport separate networks for CCTV, staff internet, guest Wi-Fi and network management.

This can be especially useful for:

• Hotels

• Universities

• Apartments

• ISPs

• Enterprise campuses

5. SNMP Reporting

FTC21 supports SNMP reporting, allowing the device to be incorporated into centralized network-monitoring systems. (MikroTik)

This is useful when technicians need visibility into remote fiber endpoints without visiting the installation physically.

6. Advanced ACL Filtering

The FTC21's Access Control Lists can work with information from Layer 2, Layer 3 and Layer 4 protocol headers.

MikroTik specifies that ACLs can be used for:

• Packet filtering

• Traffic accounting

• VLAN tagging

(MikroTik)

This adds meaningful control for such a compact device.

7. IP55 Weather Protection

The FTC21 is housed in an IP55 weather-resistant enclosure. (MikroTik)

This allows it to be installed indoors or outdoors when the mounting requirements are followed.

For outdoor use, MikroTik recommends orienting the cable openings downward and properly grounding the installation. (MikroTik Help)

8. Flexible PoE and DC Powering

The FTC21 supports two powering methods.

It can receive:

• 24–57V through the DC jack

• 24–57V through 802.3af/at PoE

(MikroTik Help)

This is useful where the converter needs to be placed at a remote site without a convenient power socket.

9. Very Low Power Consumption

The FTC21 consumes approximately 3W under normal operation without attachments and up to 4W maximum. (MikroTik)

Passive cooling means there is no internal fan, which can help reduce noise and mechanical maintenance requirements.

FTC21 Interfaces and PoweringInterface / Power FeatureDetailsEthernet 110/100/1000 Mbps, supports PoE-inEthernet 210/100/1000 MbpsSFP1G / 2.5G supportedDC Jack24–57VPoE-In802.3af/atPoE Voltage24–57VDefault UplinkEther1Other Ports by DefaultIsolated from one anotherCoolingPassiveMax Consumption4W

MikroTik's current manual states that the uplink can be changed to any port. Whichever port is selected as the uplink, the other two are isolated by default. (MikroTik Help)

FTC21 Default Port Architecture

A useful characteristic of FTC21 is its configurable uplink architecture.

By default:

Ether1 = Uplink

Ether2 = Isolated endpoint

SFP = Isolated endpoint

However, MikroTik allows the uplink port to be changed through configuration. (MikroTik Help)

This makes the unit more flexible for different fiber-to-copper layouts.

FTC21 vs Basic Media Converter

A standard media converter usually performs one simple task:

Fiber ↔ Copper

The FTC21 adds:

• SwOS Lite

• VLANs

• SNMP

• ACL filtering

• Traffic shaping

• Two Gigabit Ethernet ports

• 2.5G SFP support

• PoE powering

• Outdoor IP55 protection

This makes FTC21 more suitable for professionally managed network infrastructure.

FTC21 vs FTC11XG

FTC21 and FTC11XG serve different performance requirements.

The FTC21 is designed around Gigabit copper and up to 2.5G SFP connectivity, while FTC11XG targets 10 Gigabit fiber-to-copper conversion.

Choose FTC21 when 1G Ethernet and up to 2.5G fiber are sufficient.

Choose FTC11XG where full 10G SFP+ and 10GBase-T connectivity are required.

FTC21 vs FTC21-ups

FTC21-ups builds on the FTC21 concept by adding an integrated battery backup system.

The standard FTC21 does not contain that integrated battery.

Choose FTC21 when:

• Standard external power reliability is sufficient

• Lower cost is important

• Battery backup is already available elsewhere

Choose FTC21-ups when the fiber endpoint must survive short power interruptions without external UPS equipment.

Applications of MikroTik FTC21 in Kenya

The FTC21 can be used across many fiber-networking projects, including:

• ISP customer connections

• Enterprise buildings

• Hotels and resorts

• Schools and universities

• CCTV networks

• Apartment complexes

• Building-to-building fiber

• Industrial environments

• Remote network cabinets

It is especially useful where a managed fiber endpoint is required but full 10G capability would be unnecessary.

Fiber-to-Copper Example

A typical deployment might look like:

Core Fiber Switch → Fiber Cable → FTC21 → Gigabit Ethernet Switch

In another deployment:

ISP Fiber → FTC21 → Customer Router

The SFP transceiver determines the optical characteristics of the link, while FTC21 provides the conversion to copper Ethernet.

What Comes with MikroTik FTC21?

MikroTik includes:

• 48V 0.95A power adapter

• Gigabit PoE injector

• K-81 fastening set

(MikroTik)

This means the unit can normally be installed without purchasing a separate injector or power adapter.

The SFP module must still be selected according to the intended fiber connection.

Why Buy MikroTik FTC21 from Mikrotik Kenya?

Customers buying through Mikrotik Kenya can source not only the FTC21 but the other parts required for a complete fiber deployment.

These can include:

• SFP modules

• Fiber patch cords

• MikroTik routers

• MikroTik switches

• PoE accessories

• Ethernet cabling

• Outdoor networking accessories

• Fiber installation equipment

Correctly matching the FTC21 with the appropriate SFP module is important because fiber type, wavelength and distance all affect compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions About MikroTik FTC21

What is the MikroTik FTC21?

The MikroTik FTC21 is an IP55 managed Fiber-to-Copper converter with two Gigabit Ethernet ports, one SFP slot supporting up to 2.5G and SwOS Lite management. It is intended for converting fiber connections into copper Ethernet while giving network administrators VLAN, SNMP, traffic-shaping and ACL capabilities. What is the MikroTik FTC21 price in Kenya?

MikroTik currently lists an international suggested price of US$59. The actual FTC21 price in Kenya can differ due to exchange rates, shipping costs, VAT, reseller margins and current stock availability. For an accurate Kenyan selling price, customers should confirm current stock with Mikrotik Kenya.

What does FTC21 do?

Its main function is to convert a fiber Ethernet connection from an SFP transceiver into conventional RJ45 copper Ethernet. Because it also contains a switch chip and SwOS Lite, it can additionally manage VLANs, monitor interfaces and apply basic Layer 2 traffic controls.

Does FTC21 support 2.5 Gigabit fiber?

Yes. MikroTik specifies that the FTC21's SFP interface supports up to 2.5G. Its copper Ethernet interfaces remain Gigabit ports.

Does FTC21 have a 2.5G RJ45 port?

No. The two copper Ethernet interfaces are 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet ports. The 2.5G capability applies to the SFP interface.

How many Ethernet ports does FTC21 have?

FTC21 has two 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ45 Ethernet ports. Either straight-through or crossover Ethernet cables can be used because the interfaces support Auto MDI/X.

How many fiber ports does FTC21 have?

It has one SFP slot, and MikroTik specifies that this slot supports up to 2.5G operation

Does FTC21 include an SFP module?

The FTC21 provides the SFP slot, but the optical module needs to be selected according to the network design. This allows you to choose the correct module for single-mode or multimode fiber, wavelength and transmission distance.

Can FTC21 use single-mode fiber?

Yes, provided you install a compatible single-mode SFP transceiver. The maximum fiber distance is primarily determined by the selected module and the quality of the fiber infrastructure.

Can FTC21 use multimode fiber?

Yes. A compatible multimode SFP can be used for shorter-distance links such as within buildings, server rooms or campus facilities.

How far can FTC21 transmit over fiber?

FTC21 itself does not define one fixed fiber distance. The maximum distance is determined by the installed SFP module. A short-range multimode module may cover hundreds of metres, while compatible single-mode modules can support multi-kilometre links.

Does FTC21 support Gigabit Ethernet?

Yes. Both RJ45 ports support 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet.

Can FTC21 convert a 2.5G fiber link into 2.5G copper Ethernet?

Not directly through a 2.5G RJ45 port because the FTC21's copper interfaces are limited to Gigabit Ethernet. The SFP interface can support 2.5G, but the copper interfaces are 1G.

What operating system does FTC21 use?

FTC21 uses SwOS Lite, MikroTik's lightweight switch-management operating system.

Does FTC21 run RouterOS?

No. FTC21 does not run RouterOS. It uses SwOS Lite, which focuses mainly on switching and interface-management functions rather than routing, firewalling, VPNs or other RouterOS capabilities.

Does FTC21 support VLANs?

Yes. VLAN support is one of the management features provided through SwOS Lite. This allows administrators to transport and separate different network services across the fiber connection.

Does FTC21 support SNMP?

Yes. MikroTik lists SNMP reporting among its SwOS Lite capabilities. This allows FTC21 to be monitored by compatible network-monitoring platforms.

Does FTC21 support bandwidth control?

It supports basic traffic shaping through SwOS Lite. This can be useful for simple bandwidth-management requirements, although advanced traffic management is normally better handled by a RouterOS router.

Does FTC21 support Access Control Lists?

Yes. FTC21 supports advanced ACL functionality that can evaluate information from Layer 2, Layer 3 and Layer 4 headers. MikroTik states that these rules can be used for filtering, accounting and VLAN tagging.

Can FTC21 filter network traffic?

Yes. Its Access Control Lists can be used for packet filtering according to configured conditions. This makes it more capable than a conventional unmanaged fiber media converter.

Can FTC21 be remotely monitored?

Yes. SwOS Lite provides interface monitoring and SNMP reporting, allowing administrators to supervise remote FTC21 installations through their network-management systems.

What switch chip does FTC21 use?

It uses the Marvell 88E6341 switch chip.

What is the default IP address of FTC21?

MikroTik's current manual instructs initial users to access the device at 192.168.88.1. A computer can initially be configured with an address such as 192.168.88.2/24 to reach the management interface.

What is the default FTC21 username and password?

The default username is admin, and MikroTik's manual states that there is no password by default. A strong password should therefore be configured immediately during initial setup.

Can FTC21 obtain an IP address from DHCP?

MikroTik's documentation notes that the device can also be reached using a leased address from a DHCP server, depending on the configuration.

Can FTC21 firmware be updated?

Yes. MikroTik recommends downloading the latest SwOS Lite software and uploading it through the Upgrade section of the management interface.

What happens if a SwOS Lite upgrade fails?

FTC21 includes backup SwOS Lite firmware. MikroTik states that holding the reset button during startup can load the backup firmware, allowing administrators to reconnect to the device and reinstall normal firmware.

Does FTC21 support PoE input?

Yes. Ethernet1 supports IEEE 802.3af/at PoE-in.

What PoE voltage does FTC21 support?

The PoE input supports 24–57V DC according to MikroTik's current specifications. (

Does FTC21 support 802.3af?

Yes. MikroTik officially lists IEEE 802.3af PoE input support.

Does FTC21 support 802.3at PoE+?

Yes. IEEE 802.3at is also supported.

Can FTC21 be powered through a normal DC adapter?

Yes. The DC power jack accepts 24–57V DC.

Can I power FTC21 using 24V?

Yes. Both MikroTik's DC-jack and PoE specifications start at 24V, provided the selected power source is compatible with the intended powering method.

Does FTC21 include a power adapter?

Yes. MikroTik includes a 48V 0.95A power adapter with the FTC21.

Does FTC21 include a PoE injector?

Yes. A Gigabit PoE injector is included in the package. (

How much power does FTC21 consume?

The device consumes approximately 3W without attachments and a maximum of 4W.

Does FTC21 need a cooling fan?

No. FTC21 uses passive cooling, meaning there is no built-in fan.

Is FTC21 waterproof?

FTC21 carries an IP55 rating. It provides weather resistance for appropriate outdoor installations, but it should not be treated as an IP67 or IP68 submersible device.

Can FTC21 be installed outdoors?

Yes. MikroTik specifically states that FTC21 can be installed indoors or outdoors on a wall, pole or mast. Proper installation practices must be followed.

How should FTC21 be mounted outdoors?

MikroTik recommends mounting it with the cable openings facing downward. The enclosure should be closed securely and the installation should be properly grounded.

Can FTC21 be pole mounted?

Yes. The included mounting system can be attached to a pole or mast. A steel hose clamp can be used, although MikroTik notes that the clamp itself is not included.

Can FTC21 be wall mounted?

Yes. The supplied bracket and mounting hardware support wall installation.

What Ethernet cable should I use with FTC21?

MikroTik recommends Cat5/6 cable for the Ethernet connections. For professional Gigabit installations, quality pure-copper Cat5e or Cat6 cabling is preferable.

What temperature range does FTC21 support?

The tested ambient operating range is -40°C to +70°C, making it suitable for a broad range of indoor and outdoor environments.

What is the FTC21 MTBF?

MikroTik specifies an MTBF of approximately 100,000 hours at 25°C.

Is FTC21 suitable for Kenyan ISPs?

Yes. It is particularly useful where an ISP needs to terminate fiber at a remote customer or network site and provide Gigabit copper Ethernet while retaining VLAN, monitoring and remote-management capabilities.

Can FTC21 be used for CCTV?

Yes. FTC21 can be used to carry aggregated CCTV traffic over fiber and then convert that connection to Gigabit Ethernet at the remote location. The exact network capacity should be calculated according to the number and bitrate of cameras.

Can FTC21 be used between buildings?

Yes. This is one of its strongest applications. Fiber can connect separate buildings, and FTC21 can convert the optical connection back to Ethernet at the receiving building.

Is FTC21 suitable for hotels?

Yes. Hotels can use FTC21 to connect separate accommodation blocks, conference areas, offices or CCTV distribution points over fiber.

Is FTC21 suitable for schools and universities?

Yes. Fiber can be extended to libraries, hostels, laboratories, administration blocks and security offices, with FTC21 providing Gigabit Ethernet at each endpoint.

Is FTC21 better than a cheap unmanaged media converter?

FTC21 is particularly beneficial where you need VLAN support, SNMP monitoring, interface control, ACL filtering, PoE powering or outdoor installation. A simple unmanaged converter may still be sufficient for very basic fiber-to-copper links.

What is the difference between FTC21 and FTC11XG?

FTC21 provides Gigabit copper interfaces and an SFP interface supporting up to 2.5G. FTC11XG is designed for significantly faster networks and provides 10G SFP+ and multi-gigabit copper connectivity up to 10G.

What is the difference between FTC21 and FTC21-ups?

The main distinction is that FTC21-ups includes an integrated battery backup system, whereas the standard FTC21 does not. FTC21-ups is better suited to installations where short power interruptions need to be handled automatically.

Can FTC21 replace an Ethernet switch?

It contains switching functionality, but its main role is still fiber-to-copper conversion. For networks requiring many Ethernet ports or advanced switching capabilities, a dedicated MikroTik switch is generally more appropriate.

Where can I buy MikroTik FTC21 in Kenya?

You can source the MikroTik FTC21, compatible SFP modules, PoE accessories and complete fiber-networking solutions from Mikrotik Kenya.

MikroTik FTC21 Video Guide

Watch the video: MikroTik FTC21 Networking Guide

The MikroTik FTC21 offers a useful balance between a basic fiber media converter and a fully managed switch. Its 2.5G-capable SFP interface gives installers flexibility for faster optical uplinks, while the two Gigabit RJ45 ports provide straightforward copper connectivity at the endpoint. The inclusion of SwOS Lite makes it particularly attractive to ISPs and enterprise administrators who need VLANs, SNMP, interface monitoring and ACL filtering rather than simply converting the physical network medium.

Its IP55 enclosure and flexible 24–57V power input also make FTC21 practical for remote installations. The unit can be powered from a DC adapter or through 802.3af/at PoE, and its power requirement is only around 3–4W. When installed outdoors, proper cable orientation, secure mounting and grounding remain important to preserve reliability and weather resistance.

For Kenyan fiber projects, the FTC21 can provide a cost-effective managed termination point for building-to-building fiber, ISP customer links, hotels, campuses and CCTV networks. The key to a successful installation is selecting the correct SFP module for the fiber type, wavelength and required distance while ensuring that the Gigabit copper interfaces provide enough capacity for the intended endpoint devices.

The MikroTik FTC21 is a compact and versatile managed Fiber-to-Copper converter combining a 2.5G-capable SFP interface, two Gigabit Ethernet ports, SwOS Lite management, 802.3af/at PoE input and an IP55 outdoor enclosure. It is well suited to professional ISP, enterprise, CCTV, hospitality and campus networks where a manageable fiber endpoint is required without moving to more expensive 10G hardware.

Its VLAN support, SNMP reporting, traffic shaping and ACL filtering distinguish it from basic unmanaged media converters, while its 3–4W power consumption and flexible 24–57V powering simplify deployment at remote locations. MikroTik's current suggested price of US$59 also positions FTC21 as an accessible managed fiber-conversion solution.

Whether you need FTC21 for an ISP fiber connection, hotel network, CCTV backbone, enterprise building, campus, apartment block or building-to-building fiber project, Mikrotik Kenya provides genuine MikroTik products, compatible SFP modules, networking accessories and professional fiber-network design and installation support across Kenya.