Default Configuration

Yaser Rahmati | یاسر رحمتی

MikroTik RouterOS comes with a default configuration that is automatically applied when you first boot the router. This default setup is designed to provide basic functionality out of the box, making it easier for users to get started without requiring extensive manual configuration. However, understanding the default settings is essential for customizing the router to fit specific network needs.

1. Overview of RouterOS Default Configuration

  • Purpose: The default configuration is intended to allow the router to function as a basic home or small office router, providing internet access, firewall protection, and basic wireless functionality (if applicable).

  • Application: The default configuration is automatically applied on the first boot or after a factory reset.

2. Key Elements of the Default Configuration

  1. WAN and LAN Setup:

    • WAN Interface: Typically, the router automatically assigns one of the Ethernet ports (often ether1) as the WAN port. This port is used to connect to the internet or an upstream network.

    • LAN Interface(s): The remaining Ethernet ports are configured as LAN ports, often bridged together to create a single local network segment.

  2. IP Addressing:

    • WAN IP Address: By default, the WAN interface is set to obtain an IP address via DHCP from the upstream network or ISP.

    • LAN IP Address: The LAN side is usually given a default IP address, such as 192.168.88.1/24.

  3. DHCP Server:

    • A DHCP server is enabled on the LAN interface, providing IP addresses to connected devices within the 192.168.88.0/24 range.

  4. NAT (Network Address Translation):

    • Masquerade Rule: A NAT masquerade rule is applied to the WAN interface, allowing internal devices to share the public IP address and access the internet.

  5. Firewall:

    • Basic Firewall Rules: The default configuration includes basic firewall rules designed to protect the router and LAN from external threats.

      • Input Chain: Blocks incoming connections from the WAN interface unless they are established or related to an existing connection.

      • Forward Chain: Allows traffic from the LAN to the WAN while blocking incoming traffic initiated from the WAN.

  6. Bridge:

    • Bridge Setup: If the router has multiple LAN ports, they are typically bridged together, creating a single logical interface that spans all LAN ports.

  7. Wireless Configuration (for devices with wireless capability):

    • SSID: A default SSID is set up for the wireless network (e.g., MikroTik-<unique_ID>).

    • Security: Wireless security is usually disabled by default, meaning the network is open unless configured otherwise.

  8. User Account:

    • Admin Account: A default administrator account is created with the username admin and no password. Users are strongly encouraged to set a strong password immediately.

3. Accessing and Viewing Default Configuration

To view the default configuration:

  1. Winbox:

    • Open Winbox and connect to the router.

    • Navigate to the various sections (e.g., IP > Addresses, IP > Firewall, Bridge, Interfaces, etc.) to view the current configuration.

  2. WebFig:

    • Access WebFig via a web browser by entering the LAN IP address (e.g., 192.168.88.1).

    • Navigate through the menus to explore the configuration.

  3. Terminal:

    • Use the command-line interface (CLI) to view configurations by typing commands like ip address print, interface print, ip firewall print, etc.

4. Modifying the Default Configuration

The default configuration is often just a starting point. Users can modify it to better fit their specific needs.

  1. Changing the LAN IP Range:

    • Modify the IP address assigned to the bridge or LAN interface to suit your network plan.

    • Update the DHCP server settings to match the new LAN IP range.

  2. Customizing Firewall Rules:

    • Add or modify firewall rules to tighten security, enable port forwarding, or allow specific traffic types.

  3. Setting Up Wireless Security:

    • Enable WPA2 or WPA3 encryption on the wireless network to protect against unauthorized access.

  4. Adding/Removing Bridges:

    • Configure additional bridges or VLANs as required for more complex network setups.

  5. Configuring Additional Services:

    • Set up services like VPN, QoS, dynamic DNS, etc., depending on your needs.

5. Resetting to Default Configuration

If you need to reset the router to its default state:

  1. Using Winbox:

    • Go to System > Reset Configuration.

    • Choose the option to "No Default Configuration" if you want to start with a clean slate, or simply reset to restore the factory defaults.

  2. Using Physical Button:

    • Hold the reset button while powering on the router until the LED indicators flash, indicating the reset process.

  3. Using Terminal:

    • Execute the command system reset-configuration in the CLI to reset the router.

6. Best Practices for Default Configuration

  • Set a Strong Admin Password: Immediately change the default admin password to secure access to the router.

  • Review Firewall Rules: Ensure that the default firewall settings meet your security requirements and adjust them as necessary.

  • Configure Wireless Security: Always enable encryption on wireless networks to prevent unauthorized access.

  • Backup Before Changes: Always create a backup of the configuration before making significant changes.

7. When to Remove the Default Configuration

There are scenarios where removing the default configuration might be necessary:

  • Advanced Networking Setups: For complex network environments, you may want to start with a clean slate.

  • Troubleshooting: If you encounter issues that may be related to the default setup, resetting to a blank configuration can help identify the problem.

  • Security Concerns: In security-sensitive environments, starting without a default configuration ensures that no unwanted services or settings are enabled.

8. Conclusion

The RouterOS default configuration is a convenient starting point for most users, offering a functional setup that provides basic network connectivity and security. However, understanding and customizing this configuration is crucial for tailoring the router to meet specific needs and ensuring optimal performance and security. Whether you're managing a home network or a large enterprise setup, familiarity with the default settings allows for more effective and secure router management.

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