How to Configure DHCP Client on MikroTik Router

To connect your MikroTik router to the internet, setting up is crucial. A common task is configuring the WAN interface. This process allows it to obtain an IP address from your Internet Service Provider (ISP). To configure the DHCP Client on MikroTik, you use the DHCP client feature. This feature allows the router to automatically receive an IP address, gateway, and DNS settings from the ISP. In this guide, you’ll learn what a DHCP client is. You’ll also learn about WAN interfaces. Additionally, you will discover how to configure them step by step. Understanding how to configure a DHCP client on MikroTik is essential for efficient network management.

Steps to Configure the DHCP Client on the WAN Interface

✅ Using Winbox or WebFig

1. Connect to your MikroTik router using Winbox or through your browser (WebFig) to prepare for configuring DHCP Client on MikroTik.
2. Go to IP → DHCP Client.
3. Click the “+” button to add a new DHCP client.
4. In the Interface drop-down, select the WAN interface (usually ether1).
5. Make sure the following options are checked:
   • Add Default Route (checked): This sets the route to the internet.
   • Use Peer DNS (optional): Uses DNS provided by your ISP.
   • Use Peer NTP (optional): Uses NTP (time server) from ISP.
6. Click Apply, then OK to finish configuring DHCP Client on MikroTik.

✅ Using Command Line (CLI/Terminal)

1. Open New Terminal in Winbox or connect via SSH.
2. Enter the following command: /ip dhcp-client add interface=ether1 disabled=no Replace ether1 with your actual WAN interface name if it’s different.
3. Press Enter. The router will now request an IP address from your ISP.

Setting up a DHCP client on your MikroTik router’s WAN interface is a quick step. It is essential for getting internet access from your ISP. Configuring DHCP Client on MikroTik allows the router to automatically retrieve the IP address and networking details it needs. This makes your setup fast and efficient.

What is a DHCP Client?

A DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) client is a function that allows a device, like your MikroTik router, to automatically request an IP address. It also receives other network settings from a DHCP server, which is typically your ISP’s equipment. This removes the need to manually assign network details, simplifying your setup.

What is a WAN Interface?

The WAN (Wide Area Network) interface on a router is the port that connects to the Internet. This port is usually linked to your modem or directly to your ISP’s network. It’s the gateway between your internal network (LAN) and the external world (the internet). Configuring the WAN interface correctly is essential for getting online.

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