MikroTik RBGESP Gigabit Ethernet Surge Protector
The MikroTik RBGESP, identified in MikroTik's current product documentation as GESP, is a Gigabit Ethernet surge protector designed to help protect network equipment from lightning-related surges, transient voltage events and electrostatic discharge. The current revision features an IP67 weatherproof enclosure for outdoor installations.
MikroTik RBGESP Gigabit Ethernet Surge Protector
The RBGESP is designed for Ethernet network links where connected equipment may be exposed to electrical surges or lightning-related disturbances. It can be installed along Ethernet cable runs between network equipment, antennas, switches and other compatible Ethernet devices.
MikroTik recommends grounding the surge protector to an appropriate grounded structure such as a rack, mast or other suitable grounding point. For maximum protection on long Ethernet cable runs, MikroTik recommends using a surge protector at both ends of the cable.
Gigabit Ethernet Support
The RBGESP supports 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet, making it suitable for Gigabit network connections. It is designed to provide surge protection without limiting a compatible Ethernet connection to Fast Ethernet speeds.
Surge and ESD Protection
The RBGESP provides protection against electrical disturbances that can travel through Ethernet cabling. MikroTik's published specifications include protection testing based on standards including IEC 61000-4-2, IEC 61000-4-3, IEC 61000-4-4 and IEC 61643-21. The device is specified with ±8 kV contact and ±15 kV air ESD protection in the published documentation.
Up to 3kA Discharge Current
MikroTik specifies a 3 kA discharge current at 8/20 μs. This specification describes the surge-current capability of the protection device under the manufacturer's specified test conditions.
IP67 Weatherproof Enclosure
The current GESP revision comes in an improved IP67 waterproof enclosure, making it suitable for appropriate outdoor network installations where protection from dust and water ingress is required.
This makes the RBGESP particularly useful for installations involving outdoor wireless equipment, antenna masts, rooftop network equipment and long outdoor Ethernet cable runs.
Passive PoE Support
The RBGESP supports passive PoE. This allows it to be incorporated into compatible network installations where Ethernet connectivity and passive PoE are being used. However, the connected equipment and power arrangement must be compatible with the relevant passive PoE configuration.
Grounding for Better Protection
Proper grounding is an important part of using the RBGESP. MikroTik recommends connecting the supplied grounding wire to a rack, mast or another structure that is properly connected to ground. A surge protector should not be considered a substitute for a correctly designed grounding and lightning-protection system.
Protection for Outdoor Network Equipment
Outdoor Ethernet equipment can be particularly vulnerable to electrical surges because long cables can act as pathways for transient electrical energy. Installing an RBGESP on the network cable can provide an additional layer of protection for compatible network equipment.
Typical installations may include outdoor wireless access points, point-to-point radios, antenna systems and Ethernet-connected devices located away from the main network cabinet.
Protection at Both Ends of Long Ethernet Cables
For long Ethernet cable runs, MikroTik recommends using surge protection at both ends of the connection for maximum protection. This approach helps protect equipment located at each end of the cable from surge energy entering through the Ethernet connection.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | MikroTik |
| Model | RBGESP / GESP |
| Product Type | Gigabit Ethernet Surge Protector |
| Ethernet Interface | RJ45 Male/Female |
| Data Line Protection | 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet |
| PoE Support | Passive PoE |
| IP Rating | IP67 |
| DC Spark-Over Voltage | 75V @ 100 V/s |
| Maximum Impulse Spark-Over Voltage | 700V @ 1 kV/μs |
| Discharge Current | 3 kA (8/20 μs) |
| Minimum Insulation Resistance | 1 GΩ @ 50V |
| Maximum Capacitance | 4 pF @ 1 MHz |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to 70°C |
| MTBF | Approximately 100,000 hours at 25°C |
These specifications are based primarily on MikroTik's published GESP documentation.
Applications
- Outdoor Gigabit Ethernet networks
- Wireless access point installations
- Point-to-point wireless links
- Point-to-multipoint wireless networks
- Antenna and mast installations
- Rooftop network equipment
- Outdoor network switches
- ISP infrastructure
- Server-room network protection
- Long Ethernet cable runs
- Passive PoE network installations
- Network equipment exposed to lightning or surge risks
Outdoor Network Protection
The RBGESP is especially useful when Ethernet cables leave a protected indoor environment and travel toward outdoor equipment. Its IP67 enclosure allows the current revision to be used in suitable outdoor locations while providing protection for the Ethernet data line.
Installation Considerations
The RBGESP should be installed with proper grounding. The grounding connection should be attached to an appropriate grounded structure, such as a properly grounded rack or mast. Cable routing and grounding should follow applicable electrical and lightning-protection practices.
For long cable runs, installing protection at both ends is recommended by MikroTik. The condition of the surge protector should also be checked after significant surge events. MikroTik notes that GESP units can absorb multiple impacts, but recommends checking their condition after each surge.
Why Choose MikroTik RBGESP?
The MikroTik RBGESP Gigabit Ethernet Surge Protector provides a dedicated protection solution for Ethernet network infrastructure where surge, lightning and static-electricity risks are a concern.
Its support for 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet, passive PoE compatibility, 3 kA discharge-current specification and IP67 weatherproof enclosure make it well suited to professional outdoor networking installations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MikroTik RBGESP?
MikroTik RBGESP is a Gigabit Ethernet surge protector designed to help protect network equipment from lightning and electrical surge damage.
Does RBGESP support Gigabit Ethernet?
Yes. The RBGESP supports 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet.
Is MikroTik RBGESP waterproof?
The current GESP revision uses an IP67 weatherproof enclosure.
Does RBGESP support PoE?
Yes. MikroTik specifies passive PoE support.
Does RBGESP need grounding?
Yes. Proper grounding is an important part of the installation. MikroTik recommends connecting the grounding wire to a suitable grounded rack, mast or other grounded structure.
Can I use RBGESP outdoors?
Yes. The current revision features an IP67 weatherproof enclosure designed for suitable outdoor installations.
Should I install RBGESP on both ends of an Ethernet cable?
For maximum protection on long cable runs, MikroTik recommends using a surge protector at both ends of the cable.
What is the discharge current of RBGESP?
MikroTik specifies a discharge current of 3 kA at 8/20 μs.
What is the operating temperature of RBGESP?
The published specification lists an operating temperature range of -40°C to 70°C.
Is RBGESP a PoE injector?
No. RBGESP is a surge protector. It supports passive PoE but does not function as a standalone PoE power injector. MikroTik offers a separate GESP+PoE-IN product that combines passive PoE injection with surge protection.
