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Version: current

Netinstall

Netinstall is a utility for installing and reinstalling RouterOS on MikroTik devices. It can be used to recover inaccessible devices, perform clean installations, or reinstall RouterOS when the system is corrupted or misconfigured.

The tool is available for Windows (graphical interface) and Linux (command-line). Starting with RouterOS 7.24beta1, the Netinstall package is available for all MikroTik architectures except SMIPS devices.

Choose a Netinstall Method​

Select the installation method that matches your environment:

You can download Netinstall tools and RouterOS packages from the MikroTik Downloads page.

danger

Netinstall reformats the system drive, which erases all configuration data and user files.

Netinstall does not remove the RouterOS license key, nor does it reset RouterBOOT settings. For example, the CPU frequency remains unchanged during reinstallation.

Device Installation Workflow Using Netinstall​

The workflow below applies to all Netinstall methods.

Prepare the Netinstall host​

Start Netinstall on a computer or MikroTik router connected to the same Layer 2 (L2) network segment as the device being reinstalled. For best results, use a dedicated network interface and a simple switch or hub to avoid IP, DHCP, or BOOTP conflicts.

Boot the device into Etherboot mode​

Etherboot mode is a special boot state on MikroTik devices that allows you to reinstall RouterOS using Netinstall.

Two booter options are available: the Regular Booter and the Backup Booter. It is recommended to verify both options in case one does not work.

  • Regular Booter: To enter etherboot mode using the serial console, press and hold Control+E. Alternatively, press the Reset button after powering on the device and waiting 1–2 seconds.

  • Backup Booter: Power off the device. Press and hold the Reset button, then power on the device. Wait for the LED sequence (blinking → steady → off), then release the button. The device will boot into BOOTP mode, ready for RouterOS reinstallation via Netinstall. Depending on the model, this may be indicated by the USR, USER, System, or ACT LED, or by the SFP port LED.

Install the device​

Use Netinstall to install RouterOS with the desired packages, parameters, and configuration scripts.

Additional References​