Fresh Start (Optional):

• If your MikroTik router is new, consider a clean slate. This wipes pre-installed settings you likely won't use. "[MikroTik RouterOS download]" for the latest update might be a good idea too.
• Existing MikroTik in use? Play it safe and back up your current setup. Go to "Files" then "Backup." Save the backup file. You can even drag this to your computer for safekeeping.
  
  

  Assigning an IP Address:

  • Head over to "IP" then "Addresses" to add an IP address for your hotspot network. Make sure to assign it to the correct interface where your hotspot switch or access point connects. Adding a comment describing this new subnet is a good practice.
    
  
  

  Hotspot Server Setup:

  1. Navigate to "IP" then "Hotspot."
  2. Click "Hotspot Setup" to launch the wizard.
  3. Choose the correct interface for your hotspot network and proceed.
  4. Verify the server IP (should match the one you created for the hotspot network) and continue.
  5. The wizard will suggest an IP range for hotspot users, simply accept and move on.
  6. Skip the server certificate setting for now and proceed.
  7. You can accept the default SMTP server IP (0.0.0.0) or ignore it and continue.
  8. Ensure the DNS server address from your internet connection is entered, proceed. If you prefer public DNS, you can set it up here and continue.
  9. Finally, create a local hotspot user as required and proceed.