Installing MikroTik RouterOS on VMware Workstation: Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

MikroTik RouterOS is a powerful Linux-based operating system that transforms any computer into a fully functional network router. By installing RouterOS on a virtual machine using VMware Workstation, you can create a flexible lab environment for learning, testing, and network simulations—no physical router required.

Prerequisites

• VMware Workstation (version 15 or newer recommended)
• MikroTik RouterOS ISO or VMDK file (download from MikroTik’s official website)
• A PC with at least 2 GB RAM and 10 GB free disk space

Step 1: Download MikroTik RouterOS Image

1. Visit the MikroTik Download page.
2. Under Cloud Hosted Router (CHR), download either the RAW disk image (.img) or the ISO image for x86.
3. If available, the .vmdk (pre-built VMware disk) is the easiest option.

Step 2: Create a New Virtual Machine in VMware

1. Open VMware Workstation and select Create a New Virtual Machine.
2. Choose Typical (recommended) and click Next.
3. Select I will install the operating system later, then click Next.
4. Set the OS type:
   • Guest OS: Linux
   • Version: Other Linux 5.x or later kernel (64-bit)
5. Name your VM (e.g., “MikroTik RouterOS”) and select a storage location.
6. Set disk size (at least 1 GB), then choose Store virtual disk as a single file.

Step 3: Attach the MikroTik RouterOS Disk Image

If using a VMDK file:

1. After creating the VM, open Settings.
2. Remove the default hard disk.
3. Add a new hard disk, select Use an existing virtual disk, and browse to your downloaded .vmdk file.

If using an ISO file:

1. Go to Settings.
2. Select CD/DVD (IDE) and set it to Use ISO image file, then browse to your RouterOS .iso.
3. Ensure the VM’s hard disk is attached.

Step 4: Configure Virtual Network Adapters

1. Add or edit network adapters in VM settings (at least 2 recommended: one for WAN, one for LAN).
2. Set adapter type according to your lab needs:
   • Bridged: Connects VM directly to the physical network.
   • NAT: Shares the host’s network connection.
   • Host-only: VM is accessible only from the host PC.

Step 5: Boot and Install RouterOS

If using VMDK: Just power on the VM; RouterOS will boot automatically.

If using ISO:

1. Power on the VM.
2. At the setup menu, select packages to install (press A for all), then press I to start installation.
3. Confirm disk formatting, wait for installation to finish, and press Enter to reboot.

Step 6: Initial Login and Configuration

1. On boot, the RouterOS login prompt appears.
2. Default credentials:
   • Username: admin
   • Password: (leave blank and press Enter)
3. Set a new password immediately using the /password command.

Step 7: Accessing MikroTik RouterOS

• Winbox: Download from MikroTik’s website (Windows utility for easy management).
• WebFig: Access via browser using the VM’s IP address.
• SSH: If enabled, connect using any SSH client and the VM’s IP.

Step 8: Additional Tips

• To add more network interfaces, shut down the VM and add adapters in settings.
• Use VMware snapshots to save your lab state.
• The CHR version is free with some limits; upgrade for production use.

Conclusion

Setting up MikroTik RouterOS on VMware Workstation lets you practice routing, firewall, VPN, and advanced network scenarios in a risk-free virtual environment. This is an ideal platform for IT students, engineers, or anyone interested in networking.