Configuring MikroTik Router Firewall Common Mistakes To Avoid

If you're looking to configure your Mikrotik WiFi router, you've come to the right place. In this post, we'll guide you through the process of setting up your router using a real-life example of a Mikrotik router acting as a router and a switch at the same time.

Step 1: Logging into RouterOS

The first step to configuring your Mikrotik WiFi router is to log in to your RouterOS interface. You can do this by entering the router's IP address in your web browser. Once you've entered the IP address, you'll be prompted to enter your login credentials. If you haven't changed the default login details, the default username is "admin" and the default password is blank.

Step 2: Setting up Interfaces

Once you've logged in to RouterOS, the next step is to set up your interfaces. In our example, we have two interfaces: WAN and LAN. The WAN interface is connected to the internet, while the LAN interface is connected to our local network.

To configure the interfaces, go to the "Interfaces" menu and click on "Add New Interface". Enter the relevant details for each interface, including the interface name, type, IP address, subnet mask, and gateway. Make sure you set up the WAN interface with the IP address provided by your ISP.

Step 3: Configuring DHCP

Once your interfaces are set up, the next step is to configure DHCP. DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a protocol that assigns IP addresses to devices on your network automatically.

To configure DHCP, go to the "IP" menu and click on "DHCP Server". Click on "Add New" to create a new DHCP server. Enter the relevant details for your DHCP server, including the interface, IP pool, and lease time. Once you've saved your DHCP server settings, your router will automatically assign IP addresses to devices on your network.

Step 4: Configuring NAT

After configuring DHCP, the next step is to configure NAT (Network Address Translation). NAT allows devices on your local network to access the internet by assigning them a unique IP address.

To configure NAT, go to the "IP" menu and click on "Firewall". Click on "NAT" and then "Add New". Enter the relevant details for your NAT rule, including the chain, protocol, and Out Interface. Make sure you enable the "Action" option and set it to "masquerade". Once you've saved your NAT rule, your local devices will be able to access the internet.

Step 5: Configuring Firewall

The final step is to configure your router's firewall. A firewall is a security system that monitors and controls network traffic, allowing or blocking specific traffic based on pre-defined rules.

To configure your firewall, go to the "IP" menu and click on "Firewall". Click on "Filter Rules" and then "Add New". Enter the relevant details for your new firewall rule, including the chain, protocol, in interface, action, and source address. Once you've saved your firewall rule, your network will be protected from unauthorized access.

In conclusion

Configuring a Mikrotik WiFi router may seem daunting at first, but with the right guidance, it can be a straightforward process. By following the steps outlined in this post, you'll be able to set up your router with ease and security in mind. Remember to always change your default login details and to keep your firmware up to date to ensure maximum protection against security threats.