MikroTik Tutorial 1 - Getting Started Basic Configuration

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide to configuring your MikroTik router using RouterOS. It covers basic setup processes such as connecting to your router, downloading management software, and configuring essential network settings. This guide is perfect for beginners looking to get started with MikroTik networking devices.

Step 1: Connect the Router to Your PC

• Use two Ethernet cables for connections.
• Connect one cable from your PC to any LAN port on the MikroTik router.
• Connect the second cable from the router's WAN port to your internet source (modem or ISP connection).

Step 2: Download Winbox

• Winbox is a utility for managing MikroTik routers.
• Go to the MikroTik website or search for "MikroTik Winbox" to find the official download link.
• Download the latest version of Winbox to your PC.

Step 3: Connect to the Router Using Winbox

• Open the Winbox application.
• In the Winbox interface, you should see your MikroTik router listed in the "Neighbors" tab.
• Click on the router, enter the default username (usually "admin") and leave the password blank, then click "Connect".

Step 4: Remove Default Configuration

• Once connected, navigate to the "System" menu.
• Click on "Reset Configuration".
• Check the box for "No Default Configuration" to ensure a clean setup.
• Click "Reset Configuration" and confirm. The router will reboot.

Step 5: Configure IP Address for WAN and LAN

• Go to "IP" > "Addresses".
• Click the "+" button to add a new IP address.
• For the WAN address:
  • Enter the IP address assigned by your ISP.
  • Select the WAN interface.
• For the LAN address:
  • Enter an IP address (e.g., 192.168.88.1/24).
  • Choose the LAN interface.
• Click "OK" to save the changes.

Step 6: Configure DHCP Server

• Navigate to "IP" > "DHCP Server".
• Click on "DHCP Setup" to launch the setup wizard.
• Select the LAN interface.
• Follow the prompts to:
  • Specify the network address (e.g., 192.168.88.0/24).
  • Set the DHCP address range.
  • Enter DNS server details (use public DNS like Google 8.8.8.8).
• Complete the wizard to enable the DHCP server.

Step 7: Configure WiFi Access Point

• Go to "Wireless" settings.
• Click on the "Interfaces" tab and select your wireless interface.
• Enable the interface and set the mode to "AP Bridge".
• Set the SSID (your WiFi network name).
• Adjust security settings if necessary (use WPA2 for better security).
• Click "Apply" to save the changes.

Step 8: Reboot the Router

• Navigate to "System" > "Reboot".
• Confirm the reboot to apply all configurations.

Conclusion

You've successfully configured your MikroTik router! At this point, your router should be connected to the internet, with DHCP enabled for your network devices, and a WiFi access point set up. For further enhancements, consider configuring firewall rules or exploring additional features of RouterOS. Happy networking!