Configuring MikroTik Router As A DHCP Server

In this article, we will discuss the configuration of the DHCP Server in Mikrotik. DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is used to dynamically distribute network configuration parameters, such as IP addresses, subnet masks, default gateways, and DNS servers.

Why Configure a DHCP Server in Mikrotik?

The configuration of the DHCP Server in Mikrotik is necessary because it allows the distribution of network configuration parameters efficiently and automatically. This way, it eliminates the need for manual configuration of each device on the network, and it saves time too.

Prerequisites for Configuring a DHCP Server in Mikrotik

Before configuring the DHCP server in Mikrotik, you must have the following prerequisites:

A Mikrotik router or device
A network interface card (NIC) to connect to the Internet
A LAN connection where the DHCP server will be configured

Steps to Configure a DHCP Server in Mikrotik

Let us now go through the step-by-step process of configuring a DHCP server in Mikrotik:

Step 1: Access the Mikrotik RouterOS using WebFig or WinBox

You need to access the Mikrotik RouterOS through WebFig or WinBox to start the configuration process. Once done, you can log in using your credentials.

Step 2: Add a Network Interface Card (NIC)

The next step is to add a network interface card (NIC) to the Mikrotik router. A NIC provides a physical connection between the router and the network.

Click on IP > Addresses > Add.
Configure an IP address for the NIC and select the network interface. Click “Apply” to save the configuration.

Step 3: Add an IP Address to the DHCP Server

The next step is to add an IP address to the DHCP server. This IP address should be within the same subnet as the network interface card that you configured in the previous step.

Click on IP > DHCP Server > DHCP Setup.
Select the network interface card that you configured to add the DHCP server IP address.
Enter the IP address and subnet mask, and click “Next.”
Configure the gateway and DNS servers, and click “Finish” to save the configuration.

Step 4: Configure DHCP Settings

Now you need to configure the DHCP settings. This includes the IP address range, lease time, DNS servers, and more.

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Click on IP > DHCP Server > Networks.
Select the network that you want to configure and click “Edit”.
Enter the IP address range and lease time.
Configure the DNS servers and other options as required, and click “OK” to save the configuration.

Step 5: Configure Client Access Rules

Finally, you need to configure access rules for the DHCP clients. This ensures that only authorized devices can access the DHCP server.

Click on IP > DHCP Server > Lease.
Click on “Add,” and select the DHCP network.
Enter the MAC address of the device, configure the lease time, and click “OK.”

Conclusion

The configuration of the DHCP server in Mikrotik is an essential step in setting up a network. By following the steps mentioned above, you can efficiently configure the DHCP server, ensuring the distribution of network configuration parameters automatically to all devices connected to the network.