By Michael 
Connect MikroTik routers wirelessly effectively extends network coverage and enhances connectivity in homes or offices. This approach is particularly helpful where physical cables are impractical. Creating a mesh network with strong signals across large areas can improve internet access in expansive workplaces or eliminate dead spots at home. This guide walks you through the necessary steps for a successful wireless connection.
Using two MikroTik routers wirelessly lets you harness advanced features such as load balancing, bandwidth management, and secure networking. Known for flexibility and robust performance, MikroTik routers make ideal candidates for wireless configurations, ensuring extended coverage, enhanced user experience, and improved connectivity for smart devices across all areas.
This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough for connecting MikroTik routers wirelessly, including preparatory steps like router setup, wireless configuration, and settings optimization. Proper configuration is essential to avoid connectivity issues and maximize performance. With this foundational knowledge, you’ll be well-equipped to establish a reliable wireless link between MikroTik routers, thus boosting your network’s reliability and efficiency.
Prerequisites
Before beginning, gather the necessary components and knowledge. You’ll need two MikroTik routers with wireless support to facilitate the connection. Verifying each router model can reveal whether certain models offer enhanced wireless features.
You’ll also need appropriate software to configure the routers. Winbox, a lightweight configuration tool with a user-friendly interface, is popular for this purpose, though you can also use a web browser. Familiarity with basic networking concepts, like IP addressing, DHCP, and network security, will simplify the process. Understanding router functions and the MikroTik RouterOS contributes greatly to a successful setup.
Ensure both routers run compatible firmware versions for smooth operation. Visit the MikroTik website for updates and install the latest firmware if necessary. With the right hardware, software, and knowledge, you’ll enjoy a smoother experience while learning to connect MikroTik routers wirelessly.
Step 1: Setting Up the First Router (Access Point)
Start by configuring the first MikroTik router as an access point. Connect your computer to the router with an Ethernet cable, then open a browser and enter the router’s IP address (typically 192.168.88.1) to access settings. Log in with the default credentials—usually “admin” with no password.
Once logged in, go to “Wireless” settings and switch the mode to “ap bridge” to enable access point functionality. Set the SSID, the name visible to devices connecting to your network, to a unique identifier. This distinction will help easily identify your network.
For security, create a profile under “Wireless” > “Security Profiles.” Set up WPA2 PSK security and a strong passphrase to restrict unauthorized access.
Next, create a bridge under the “Bridge” menu and add it. Then assign the wireless interface to this bridge in the “Interfaces” tab, allowing data flow between connected devices and the local network. Finally, navigate to “IP” > “Addresses” to assign an IP address to the access point. Choose an IP within the primary router’s subnet, avoiding conflicts with other devices. These steps set up the first router, ensuring a reliable foundation for wireless connectivity with the second router.
Step 2: Setting Up the Second Router (Station)
Now, configure the second router as a station. Connect your computer to it via Ethernet, then log in using the router’s default IP, usually 192.168.88.1, with “admin” as the username. In “Wireless” settings, change the mode to “Station” to connect with the first router. Make sure the SSID and frequency match those of the first router to ensure smooth communication.
Then, configure the DHCP client in the “IP” menu under “DHCP Client.” Click “Add” and select the wireless connection interface to allow the second router to receive a dynamic IP from the primary router. After establishing a successful connection, you’ll see an assigned IP from the first router.
You can also assign a static IP to simplify network management. Go to “IP” > “Addresses” and add an IP matching the first router’s subnet but unique within the network. Following these steps configures the second router as a station, allowing it to connect seamlessly with the primary router and extend your network coverage.
Finalizing the Configuration
To verify the wireless connection, perform a ping test. Open the terminal on your primary router and ping the second router’s IP address. A response confirms the connection is correctly established. If there’s no response or packet loss, check the network settings and ensure both routers share the same subnet.
If issues persist, review each router’s firewall to confirm it allows ICMP requests (ping). Reevaluate the wireless configuration, ensuring non-overlapping frequency channels and compatible wireless standards.
Optimize router placement for performance. Position both routers with minimal obstructions, as walls and large objects weaken signals. Elevating routers can also improve range. Use RouterOS tools for a site survey to assess signal strength in different locations. Proper configuration and placement enable effective communication between the two MikroTik routers, allowing you to make full use of wireless connectivity.
Example Configuration
Below are example configurations for both access point and station setups as a reference:
Access Point Commands:
vbnetCopier le code/interface wireless set [ find default-name=wlan1 ] mode=ap-bridge ssid="MikroTik-Wireless" frequency=2412 band=2ghz-b/g/n
/interface wireless security-profiles add name=default supplicant-identity=your-identity authentication-types=wpa2-psk wpa2-pre-shared-key="your-password"
/interface wireless set [ find default-name=wlan1 ] security-profile=default
/ip address add address=192.168.88.1/24 interface=wlan1
/ip dhcp-server setup
This setup configures the access point in AP bridge mode, secures the connection, and assigns an IP address for routing within the local network.
Station Router Commands:
vbnetCopier le code/interface wireless set [ find default-name=wlan1 ] mode=station-bridge ssid="MikroTik-Wireless"
/interface wireless security-profiles add name=default authentication-types=wpa2-psk wpa2-pre-shared-key="your-password"
/interface wireless set [ find default-name=wlan1 ] security-profile=default
/ip address add address=192.168.88.2/24 interface=wlan1
/ip route add dst-address=192.168.88.0/24 gateway=192.168.88.1
These commands configure the second router to connect as a station, complementing the access point settings.
Tips for Troubleshooting
Should issues arise, ensure the routers share the same subnet for smooth communication. MikroTik frequently updates RouterOS, so updating both routers to compatible firmware can resolve issues and optimize performance. Minor physical adjustments, like raising the antenna or repositioning the routers, can also strengthen the signal. The MikroTik support forums or user manuals offer additional solutions if issues persist.
Additional Resources
To deepen your understanding, refer to official MikroTik documentation, where you’ll find setup guides, network principles, and troubleshooting advice. MikroTik forums allow you to share questions and insights with other users. For visual learners, YouTube offers many step-by-step tutorials on MikroTik configurations.
Conclusion
Mastering wireless connection setup between MikroTik routers significantly enhances network flexibility. This skill is invaluable for improving coverage and connectivity without extensive cabling. Implementing these steps boosts your network’s performance, coverage, and device connectivity.
Share your experiences or challenges in the comments. The insights can help others and foster a collaborative space where users learn together. We encourage you to apply this guide and share your feedback on connecting MikroTik routers wirelessly.