How to Configure DHCP Server on MikroTik Router

A DHCP server is a vital part of any network. It automatically assigns IP addresses to devices on your LAN (Local Area Network). It also assigns other network settings, like gateway and DNS, so users don’t have to configure them manually. MikroTik routers make it easy to set up a reliable DHCP server for your LAN. This guide walks you through the process step-by-step using Winbox, WebFig, or Terminal.

Step: Set Up a DHCP Server on LAN

✅ Before you begin: Make sure your LAN interface (e.g., bridge or ether2) already has a static IP address assigned. If not, set one under IP > Addresses (e.g., 192.168.88.1/24).

Using Winbox or WebFig (GUI Method)

1. Open Winbox and connect to your MikroTik router.
2. Go to IP → DHCP Server.
3. Click DHCP Setup (at the top right).
4. In the DHCP Server Interface window:
   • Select your LAN interface (e.g., bridge or ether2).
   • Click Next.
5. Set the DHCP address space (default will auto-fill based on your interface IP, e.g., 192.168.88.0/24).
   • Click Next.
6. Choose the gateway for DHCP clients (typically the router’s IP, e.g., 192.168.88.1).
   • Click Next.
7. Set the IP address range for clients (e.g., 192.168.88.10–192.168.88.254).
   • Click Next.
8. Add DNS servers (you can use Google’s: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4, or your router IP).
   • Click Next.
9. Set the Lease Time (e.g., 10m, 1h, or 1d).
   • Click Next, then OK.

Your DHCP server is now up and running! Any connected LAN device will receive an IP address automatically.

Using CLI (Terminal)

If you prefer the command-line method, here’s how:

/ip dhcp-server setup

Follow the on-screen prompts:

• Select interface (e.g., bridge)
• Confirm IP pool, gateway, DNS, and lease time

Or manually:

/ip pool add name=dhcp_pool ranges=192.168.88.10-192.168.88.254
/ip dhcp-server add address-pool=dhcp_pool interface=bridge lease-time=1d name=dhcp1
/ip dhcp-server network add address=192.168.88.0/24 gateway=192.168.88.1 dns-server=8.8.8.8

Setting up a DHCP server on your MikroTik router ensures all devices on your LAN receive IP addresses automatically. This setup also provides network settings automatically. It makes your network efficient and easy to manage. Whether you use the GUI or Terminal, it only takes a few minutes to get up and running.

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Imagine a large office where new employees show up every day. A manager does not manually assign each person a desk and phone number. There’s an automatic system that does it. The system tells them where the coffee machine and printer are the moment they walk in.

What Does “DHCP” Stand For?

A DHCP Server is an automatic system for a network. It automatically assigns IP addresses to devices when they connect. It also assigns other network configuration details. This allows devices to communicate on the network and the internet.

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol

• Dynamic: It assigns addresses temporarily, not permanently. A device gets an address for a set period, also known as a “lease.” If the first device leaves, the address can then be given to someone else.
• Host: This is any device that connects to the network (your laptop, phone, smart TV, etc.).
• Configuration: It sets up the device with all the necessary settings.
• Protocol: It’s a set of rules for how this communication happens.

What Information DHCP Server Provide?

When a device connects, the DHCP server doesn’t just give it an IP address. It provides a complete “network information package” called a DHCP Offer, which includes:

1. IP Address: A unique identifier for the device on the network (e.g., 192.168.1.15).
2. Subnet Mask: Defines the “neighborhood” of the network. It tells the device which other IP addresses are local and which are outside the network.
3. Default Gateway: The IP address of your router. This is the “door” to the internet. All traffic meant for the outside world is sent here.
4. DNS Server: The address of the Domain Name System server. This is like a phonebook for the internet; it translates website names (like google.com) into IP addresses that computers can understand.

How Does It Work? The “DORA” Process

The interaction between a device and the DHCP server follows four steps, easily remembered by the acronym DORA:

Discover → Offer → Request → Acknowledge

1. Discover: When your device connects (e.g., you turn on your laptop or join a Wi-Fi), it doesn’t have an IP address. It shouts out to the entire network, “Is there a DHCP server here? I need an IP address!“
2. Offer: The DHCP server hears the shout. It responds directly to the device, “I can offer you this IP address: 192.168.1.15. Here are the other settings, too.“
3. Request: The device receives the offer and sends a message back, “Great, I’d like to request that IP address (192.168.1.15), please!“
4. Acknowledge: The DHCP server sends a final confirmation: “It’s all yours! Here’s your official lease for that address. It’s valid for the next 24 hours (or another set time).“

Now your device is fully configured and can start using the network and the internet.

Why is DHCP So Important? (The Benefits)

• Automation and Simplicity: You don’t have to manually enter IP addresses. Subnet masks and DNS settings are configured on each device automatically. It’s “plug and play” for networks.
• Prevents Conflicts: Without DHCP, if you manually assign addresses, you might accidentally give the same IP to two different devices. This can cause a conflict where neither can connect. The DHCP server manages a pool of addresses and ensures each one is unique.
• Efficient Use of Addresses: Devices don’t need a permanent IP address. Your phone gets an address when it’s connected to your Wi-Fi. When you leave and take your phone with you, that address is returned to the pool. It can be given to a friend’s laptop when they visit later. This is crucial for networks with many devices that come and go (like coffee shop Wi-Fi).
• Centralized Management: All network settings are managed from one place (the DHCP server). If you need to change the DNS server for your entire network, you just change it on the DHCP server. Every new device will get the updated settings.

Where is the DHCP Server Located?

In most home and small office networks, the DHCP server function is built right into your wireless router. That’s one of its key jobs.

In larger corporate networks, a dedicated server often manages DHCP services. There may be multiple servers for redundancy to handle the thousands of devices.

Analogy Summary

Think of the DHCP server as a concierge at a large hotel:

• You walk in (connect to the network).
• The concierge (DHCP server) automatically assigns you a room number (IP address).
• They give you a key card (configuration). It tells you how to get to your room (subnet mask). It also informs you where the exits are (default gateway). Additionally, it explains how to use the phone to call other rooms or outside numbers (DNS).
• You only have the room for a few nights (lease time). When you check out, the room number is given to the next guest.

In short, the DHCP server acts as a silent, automated manager. It makes modern networking possible. It automatically hands out the necessary instructions for devices to get online.

MikroTik RouterBOARD 5009UG+S+ Review

The MikroTik RouterBORD 5009UG+S+, manufactured by MikroTik, is a robust and versatile networking device. It is designed primarily for routing and managing network traffic in various environments. This product is targeted towards small to medium-sized businesses. It is also ideal for tech-savvy home users. The product is perfect for those seeking reliable performance and advanced features in their network infrastructure.

Product Overview

This router is powered by the Marvell Armada ARMv8 CPU, featuring a quad-core architecture with a clock speed of 1.4GHz per core, ensuring impressive processing power. It is equipped with 1GB of DDR4 RAM. The router supports 1GB Ethernet WAN. This makes it a suitable choice for users who require high-speed internet connectivity.

Design and Aesthetic

The MikroTik RouterBORD 5009UG+S+ boasts a compact and functional design, typical of MikroTik’s products. The device features a sturdy casing made from durable plastic, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear and tear. Its minimalist aesthetic is practical, with various ports and indicators clearly delineated on the front panel. The router’s design includes heat dissipation features, which is crucial for maintaining optimal performance during extended use.

Key Features and Specifications

• CPU: Marvell Armada ARMv8 (Quad-core, 1.4GHz)
• RAM: 1GB DDR4
• WAN Port: 1GB Ethernet WAN
• Design: Compact, functional casing with heat management
• Intended Use: Ideal for small to medium-sized businesses and advanced home networks

User Experience

Using the MikroTik RouterBORD 5009UG+S+ in various scenarios has been a positive experience. In a home setting, it managed multiple devices seamlessly, maintaining stable connections even with heavy streaming and gaming activities. When deployed in a small office, the router effectively handled the bandwidth needs of multiple users. It enabled smooth video conferencing. Cloud access occurred without noticeable lag.

The setup process was straightforward, thanks to MikroTik’s user-friendly interface and extensive documentation. Advanced users will appreciate the extensive configuration options available, allowing for precise tuning of network settings. The performance metrics also showed excellent throughput and low latency, further enhancing overall satisfaction.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Powerful Marvell Armada ARMv8 CPU with four cores for efficient processing
• Ample RAM (1GB DDR4) ensures smooth multitasking
• Compact and durable design suitable for various environments
• Excellent performance in high-bandwidth scenarios
• User-friendly setup and configuration options

Cons

• Limited advanced features compared to higher-end models
• May require a learning curve for users unfamiliar with MikroTik’s interface
• No built-in Wi-Fi, requiring additional access points for wireless connectivity

Conclusion

Overall, the MikroTik RouterBORD 5009UG+S+ stands out as a highly capable networking solution for both home and small business users. Its powerful CPU and ample RAM provide excellent performance for demanding tasks, while its durable design ensures longevity.

It may lack all the bells and whistles of more premium models. However, its reliability and effectiveness make it a solid investment. Potential buyers should consider their specific needs, particularly regarding wireless capabilities, as this device does not include built-in Wi-Fi.