How to Configure Multi-WAN Failover on MikroTik RouterOS

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of configuring multi-WAN failover on MikroTik RouterOS. Multi-WAN failover is essential for maintaining a reliable internet connection by automatically switching to a backup WAN connection if the primary one fails. We'll cover the basics of WAN redundancy and provide detailed steps to set this up effectively on your MikroTik device.

Step 1: Set Up Default Route

1. Access your MikroTik router using Winbox or WebFig.
2. Navigate to IP > Routes in the menu.
3. Click on the Add button to create a new route.
4. Set the Destination to 0.0.0.0/0 to define a default route.
5. Define the Gateway as the IP address of your primary WAN connection.
6. Set the Distance to 1 for the primary route. This determines the priority of the route.
7. Click OK to save your settings.

Step 2: Configure Backup WAN Connection

1. In the same IP > Routes section, click on the Add button again.
2. Enter the Destination as 0.0.0.0/0.
3. Set the Gateway to the IP address of your backup WAN connection.
4. Assign a Distance of 2. This ensures that this route will only be used if the primary WAN connection fails.
5. Click OK to save the backup route.

Step 3: Testing Failover Functionality

1. To test the configuration, disconnect your primary WAN connection.
2. Check the routing table in IP > Routes to ensure that the backup route is now active.
3. Reconnect the primary WAN connection and verify that it takes precedence again.

Step 4: Optional Recursive Routes for Advanced Users

1. If you want to implement more advanced routing with recursive routes:
   • Go to IP > Routes and add a new route as before.
   • Set the Destination to your desired network.
   • Specify the Gateway as the IP address of your internet provider.
   • Use the Distance setting to prioritize this route appropriately.
2. This allows you to have more control over how traffic is routed based on conditions.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you have successfully configured multi-WAN failover on your MikroTik router. This setup will help ensure a reliable internet connection by automatically switching to a backup connection when needed. For further improvement, consider exploring advanced routing options or additional MikroTik features that can enhance your network's performance.