How to Add a Default IP Address to a MikroTik Router

🧭 Setting up a MikroTik router for the first time? Start by assigning a default IP address to the device. This step is necessary so you can manage it. MikroTik routers are powerful, customizable, and ideal for home users and network professionals. Here’s a straightforward guide to get you started.

Steps to Add a Default IP Address

Note: These steps assume you’re using Winbox, MikroTik’s graphical management tool, or terminal access via SSH/console.

✅ Using Winbox (Graphical Interface)

1. Connect to your MikroTik router
   • Use Winbox to connect via MAC address (useful if IP isn’t yet configured).
   • Login with the default username: admin (password is blank by default).
2. Go to IP > Addresses
   • On the left menu in Winbox, click IP, then select Addresses.
3. Click the “+” Button to Add a New Address
4. Enter the IP Address
   • In the “Address” field, type the desired IP with subnet mask (e.g., 192.168.88.1/24).
   • In the “Interface” dropdown, choose the interface (e.g., ether1 or bridge).
5. Click “Apply” then “OK”
   • Your default IP is now set, and the router can be accessed using it.
6. See the screenshot step-by-step

When you have logged in to Mikrotik from Winbox already, go to => IP => Address

1. Configure IP Address

2. Configure DHCP Server

🧰 Why Configure a DHCP Server on a MikroTik Router?

A DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) Server is essential for automating the process. It assigns IP addresses and network settings to devices in your network. You no longer need to manually set IP addresses on every device. The DHCP server makes sure each client gets a valid IP address. This includes devices like a phone, computer, or printer. It ensures all IP addresses are unique.

When you configure a DHCP Server on your MikroTik router, you simplify network management by:

• 🔄 Automating IP assignment – No need to manually configure each device.
• 🚫 Preventing IP conflicts – Ensures every connected device gets a unique IP address.
• 📡 Enabling plug-and-play networking – Devices can connect and get network access instantly.
• 🛠️ Easier troubleshooting and network scalability – Makes growing or maintaining a network smoother.

You might be setting up a home network, office LAN, or a hotspot system.

It is crucial to enable DHCP on your MikroTik router for these networks.

It ensures efficient and hassle-free network management.

Add the Default Gateway for the Default IP Address of Mikrotik

Here, you can exclude some IP addresses from your network.

For the DNS Server, you can add 8.8.8.8 or keep it optional. Because we just add default IP Address to the Mikrotik for default only. the

Set Release time, up to you

Now, you are successful with the configuration DHCP Server

✅ Using Terminal (Command Line)

1. Connect via console or SSH, or open the terminal in Winbox.
2. Use the following command:/ip address add address=192.168.88.1/24 interface=ether1
   • Replace 192.168.88.1/24 with your desired network.
   • Replace ether1 with your actual interface name.
3. Verify with: /ip address print

To add an IP Address to the Mikrotik router via Command Line Interface (CLI), enter it as above.

Use this command: /ip address print to check your configuration. And go to check from Interface as below.

Now that you’ve added a default IP address, you can manage your MikroTik router with ease. You can continue with other configurations like DHCP, NAT, or firewall rules. MikroTik’s routers are reliable and feature-rich, making them an excellent investment for robust networking.

📦 Tip: You can buy MikroTik routers and accessories conveniently from Amazon. Go to “MikroTik router” to explore models that suit your needs!