MikroTik Routers and Switches Reviews

We use MikroTik routers for routing, mainly for the connection between our branches and the head office factory.

The process is for microservices, and we use it to differentiate between the Internet lines, like one for LAN, from our LAN to branches LAN, and factory LAN. Actually, we use the MAM (Metropolitan Area Networks) by MikroTik reseller.  We use the GRE and IPSEC protocols with our MikroTik routers.

We like the solution because it is cost-effective. We just have to buy the hardware. We don't have to buy any software, and we don't have to renew that product. Just the hardware, and we can use it for routing purposes for a lifetime. It also provides some basic security, but we don't use future security.

MikroTik routers are very user-friendly and easy to manage. They support a wide variety of routing protocols, including BGP, OSPF, and RIP. We use MikroTik routers for both routing and switching.

There is an area of improvement. The firewall features are self-contained, but features like email scanning and voice control should be improved. This is the best routing product.

It has the firewall feature, but we have to configure it manually, and it is more of a graphic feature, not an advanced one like Layer 7. 

MikroTik Routers and Switches are very fast, and it is easy to operate. If it is combined with the firewall features, which we use from the Sophos firewall, then it will be great because we won't have to use more devices in the same place.

And also, for the second layer, we use Sophos for the firewall control. If that is built into the MikroTik router, then that would be very fair. Then we don't have to log in to another device. Only one device can be used for support purposes.

We have been using MikroTik routers for almost 15 years for different purposes.

I've been using the solution for the past few months, and I haven't had any issues with stability. They're very user-friendly and easy to configure.

If a router fails, has low bandwidth, or hangs, we can just buy another router and include the configuration. It's very cost-effective.  In our country, you can get a good MikroTik router with 10 gigabit ports for only $300.

According to my use, I would give it a nine or ten out of ten because, actually, I have not used one hundred percent of MikroTik's facilities. At my usage level, it serves me very well.

If we need to scale, MikroTik routers allow us to do so effectively.

We have two MikroTik routers in our headquarters, and our branches are connected with different models of MikroTik routers based on their internet or data link requirements. Almost 17 branches are connected to the headquarters, and it is working fine. 

Additionally, we have two physical servers located in different locations. We use separate data links for the servers to ensure redundancy. In total, we are using almost seventeen to eighteen MikroTik hardware devices.

We haven't had to use it yet. We've been able to solve all of our problems on our own.

The setup process is simple because MikroTik routers have two setup facilities: console mode and graphical mode. It can be set up very easily using graphical mode. It also provides real-time data on how much data is passing through each port, and it offers redundancy if we have multiple internet connections.

I set up some protocols by myself, and for some others, we took vendor or IT help. I manage the router for internet, bandwidth, data link, and also for the IT platform.

Sometimes it becomes complex, and in such cases, I take help from IT. But it seems to be easier because we always have the interface to run Winbox and monitor how much data is flowing through each port.

Also, if any port needs maintenance, we can easily check if it is disconnected or not. Even if it's physically connected but not functioning properly, it can be easily identified using MikroTik Toolbox.

It is deployed on-premises. And it is only hardware. It uses the Winbox software for the router. It is not cloud-based and is not used for security or other purposes. Its sole purpose is to maintain the data link and internet connection.

The pricing is actually very cheap because with that stuff too, buy the product. We just have to buy the router. We don't have to buy any routing software, MC. Let me see for the only hardware, we have to pay.

If I have any opportunity, I would go for Cisco as a CCNA holder, but it's very complicated to configure and maintain. In the case of MikroTik, the complexity is low, and maintenance is also easier. Additionally, it's cost-effective; we can easily change the hardware and import the configuration.

Overall, I would rate the solution a ten out of ten. The solution fulfills all my use cases. 

Depending on the specific requirements, I utilize MikroTik Routers and Switches to configure IPSec connections between two sites, where one serves as a backup and the other as the production site. Additionally, I employ them as an internal VPN server for external users. These devices are also used for routing and firewall purposes, and I take advantage of various other features, such as redirection, blocking, and more.

MikroTik offers full enterprise capabilities at a very reasonable price. If we already have it and need to improve our networking skills, it becomes essential to configure it in detail. Perhaps some might see this as a disadvantage, but in my case, I find it highly beneficial as it keeps my networking knowledge up-to-date. I utilize it extensively for computing and completing tasks. Moreover, new features are constantly being introduced, making it even more valuable. For instance, features like DOH and containers are available, allowing us to install services like Pi-hole within McAfee. I believe it's a highly useful tool from my perspective. Some other brands are quite expensive, whereas MikroTik offers reliability at a decent price, providing us with the capabilities we need.

The scalability has room for improvement.

MikroTik's firewall is acceptable, but it is not as advanced as some of the other vendors. I would like to have some additional filtering options added in the future.

I have been using MikroTik Routers and Switches for five years.

The scalability is acceptable, but I am not entirely satisfied since we lack the budget to scale any further.

The initial setup is straightforward. The deployment process depends on multiple factors. For example, if I need to choose a backup location outside or inside the town, or a different location altogether, and I want to have a protected link such as IPSec or any of these solutions, then we can configure the MikroTik Router according to that specific goal.

When we purchase MikroTik devices, a certain level of the license is included in the price. Additionally, we may receive different devices for various achievements, and this is also part of the price. The idea is that the basic license is covered in the initial cost, and if we require more features, we can buy additional credits. Although it is possible to purchase another license, it is uncommon as I have never heard of anyone having to do this.

I give MikroTik Routers and Switches a nine out of ten.

For graphical improvements, I prefer the Firewall brand. For example, Check Point, Fortinet, or other similar options, including PSMs, with which I also have experience. In small businesses like ours, MikroTik Routers and Switches are highly beneficial as they offer some of the edge capabilities that we require for a smaller environment. If we don't need an enterprise solution due to the small number of users, these firewalls serve our needs effectively.

Once we become familiar with the hidden features, we can truly appreciate the power of MikroTik Routers and Switches. This understanding can enable us to unlock even more capabilities in the way we configure the routers. While MikroTik may not be the absolute best, it is indeed very good and highly useful. I wholeheartedly recommend MikroTik Routers and Switches.

We have a dedicated crew for maintenance.

Our clients use it to implement network solutions.

Our clients like the product because it's an open-source solution. The features of the equipment fit all the needs of the customers.

The solution should improve the features of Wi-Fi 6 a little bit.

I have been working with the solution as a distributor for more than ten years.

It's a good product, and I am satisfied with its stability. I rate the product’s stability an eight out of ten.

I rate the scalability an eight to nine out of ten. We can scale it to a large number of endpoints. We have more than 100 users in Portugal. Our clients are medium and enterprise-level businesses.

The support is not very clear. The way they deal with issues is not very good.

Neutral

The solution is easy to install. I rate the ease of setup a nine out of ten.

We took only a few minutes to install the product. We install and configure the solution for our customers. We also provide support and maintenance to customers.

The solution is not expensive. The pricing is good. There are no additional charges associated with the product. The product’s license is for life. I rate the pricing a nine out of ten.

I am working with all the versions of the product. We have buyers on the market for the solution. People who want to use the product must be confident because the product is good and has a competitive price compared to other vendors. Overall, I rate the product a nine out of ten.

Using MikroTik Routers and Switches, I can perform network segmentation for both LAN and Wi-Fi networks, and even for 22-point solutions. Additionally, I can use these devices as a firewall. 

The deployment process of MikroTik routers and switches is very convenient since it is not command-driven and comes with a graphical user interface, making it much easier to operate.

In comparison to Cisco products, which can be challenging to deploy, MikroTik devices were easier to set up and had a much faster turnaround time.

The updates as well as the patches could be improved.

I believe it would be beneficial to automate the process of router patching to avoid the need for manual checks. With automated patching, as long as the router is connected to the internet, it can automatically perform necessary updates. Failing to patch the router can leave me vulnerable to potential security threats.

Currently, my security is vulnerable due to this potential risk.

I would like to see automated updates for the patches.

I have been working with MikroTik Routers and Switches for ten years.

I don't recall the version I started with.

In our country, there is a single internet service provider that has been highly recommended by someone due to the affordability of their router.

I have never contacted technical support.

I have only gone to be afraid to get patches and now patching the updates for the router.

I have implemented several network solutions involving routers, switches, and point-to-point (P2P) connections.

I have used different types of routers, such as TP-Link,  DLink, and Cisco. We switched to MikroTik Routers and Switches due to the cost.

The initial setup was straightforward.

WinBooks, the customized model application, has already been successfully deployed and is considered effective.

Deploying it from your machine was straightforward because you simply connected to the network, had all the necessary network parameters, and then proceeded with the deployment.

We were able to complete the deployment ourselves.

When compared to deploying a Cisco router, the cost is extremely low.

I am confident that there are numerous individuals who use MikroTik, particularly those who own P2P networks.

No fees are required for licensing.

I would suggest that they do not require extensive technical knowledge to deploy it, thanks to the graphical user interface.

This is one task that doesn't need to be repeated, making deployment much faster and easier than that of competitors. Additionally, the solution is highly robust, as the instance I deployed has been running for nearly a decade without issue.

I would rate MikroTik Routers and Switches a nine out of ten.

I use the tool to block external attempts. 

The ports could be improved, as certain areas may need to be terminated with a greater number of Ethernet ports. We initially faced challenges that hindered our network usage, especially with third-party applications that were not certified or supported. It took some time to streamline and resolve these issues.

I have been using the product for five years. 

We rely on local support and haven't contacted the OEM for support. My company is satisfied with the local support, but they are not flexible enough to provide round-the-clock support. 

Positive

The tool offers a one-time buying option. 

MikroTik Routers and Switches meet our requirements and help us achieve our goals. We can customize them as needed. I would recommend them to small—or medium-sized customers. However, larger enterprises might need more security features and firewalls. 

I rate it a seven out of ten. It's great for small enterprises in industries like healthcare facilities or manufacturing verticals. However, banks may require more specialized solutions due to their specific security needs.

We use the product for VPN. 

MikroTik Routers and Switches needs to improve stability. 

I have been using the product for five years. 

I rate the tool's stability a four out of ten. Code configurability is a significant feature in big data because it allows administrators to control various aspects of network protocols. However, it can be challenging for those who are not familiar with networking. 

My company has 20 users. 

I am not sure if a technical support team exists for the product. 

The tool's deployment is complex. It was not intuitive, and I had to support myself with web documentation. Deployment involves downloading the software, connecting to the console, making initial configurations, and setting up the features. This is typically how network devices are set up.

We don't need a consultant for the deployment. A lot of information can be found on the web. 

You don't have to pay for a license and can expect cost savings on deployment. 

The tool is cheap. 

We use MikroTik Routers and Switches in small office deployments. I rate it a six out of ten. I would recommend it for low-budget projects. The product can be difficult if you are not skilled. 

So the company I work for sells a guest Wi-Fi platform for restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels, etc. 

Predominantly, we configure MikroTik Routers and Switches with our platform and then integrate them into the existing network of the businesses.

The stability of the market and the ability to remotely control them are the most valuable features for me.

It would be nice if the interface was easier to use. It's probably one of the most complicated user interfaces to use, but then again, MikroTik routers are also the most flexible routers to use. So I guess it's a price you pay for using a product that's capable of doing pretty much anything.

I have been using this solution for three years.

I would rate the stability a ten out of ten.

I would rate the scalability a ten out of ten, it's very scalable.

We're continually adding new locations to our client base all the time. We manage more than 4500 locations globally.

The initial setup is easy now. But when I first started out, it was difficult. The initial deployment of the platform that we use and set up the network was done before I started with the company.

In comparison, especially once you start getting into commercial applications, MikroTik is very affordable. So on the cheaper side of the scale, definitely.

Probably do one of the MikroTik authorized training courses before you start. Overall, I would rate this solution a ten out of ten.

We had been using MikroTik as a firewall to implement firewall policies and to implement queues along with DNS and DStv services. Additionally, we were using MikroTik to control our end users by limiting their website browsing and the limiting their upload and download speed. The aim was also to prevent them from indulging in any unauthorized access to the internet.

MikroTik is a good product.

If the reporting functionality of the solution is considered, I think it is not good.

I think MikroTik should include features like antivirus into their prevention and detection system to prevent any kind of attacks.

I want them to improve their reporting functionality and include antivirus in the solution.

In our company, we have been using MikroTik Routers and Switches for the last three to three and a half years. Personally, I have experience working on the solution for the last three years. Though I am not aware whether we are using the latest version, I can say that we were using MikroTik Router RB2011.

It is a stable solution. I have been using the solution for a while, and I don't face any outages or trouble while using the solution.

Scalability-wise, I rate the solution a six out of ten. Considering the client for whom we had deployed the solution, the number of uses using the solution was less than a hundred.

I don't remember if we took any technical support from MikroTik since it runs smoothly and we don't face any difficulties in our organization.

Before MikroTik, in our company, we were using Microsoft TMG Gateway.

I switched to MikroTik after I came to know that TMG Gateway had become obsolete and that Microsoft was planning to end the support offered to TMG Gateway. Hence, we decided to move to MikroTik.

The setup is quite user-friendly, easy to configure, and easy to troubleshoot.

The deployment process is very easy since you just need to buy the box from the market and deploy the solution in your network. Also, the user interface is very friendly. The solution's configuration, troubleshooting, and establishment of services are all easy. Though I can do the deployment of the solution myself, it is better to consult a senior team member.

For the deployment and maintenance of the solution at the company where I am working, there are four people on the technical team. Our senior manager is a person handling four teams.

In our company, we are using MikroTik without a license. Also, we haven't paid or subscribed for their services. However, we are planning to buy their services and subscriptions.

I would recommend the solution to other people who plan to use it. Overall, I rate the solution a seven out of ten.