4.3 Basic Configuration Explained
1. Initial Setup
The initial setup of a MikroTik switch involves accessing the device, setting up basic network parameters, and configuring essential services. This includes setting the switch's IP address, enabling remote management, and configuring basic security settings.
Example: After connecting to the switch via console or web interface, you would set the IP address to 192.168.88.1/24. This allows you to manage the switch remotely from any device on the same subnet.
2. Interface Configuration
Interface configuration involves setting up the physical and logical interfaces of the switch. This includes assigning VLANs, configuring link aggregation, and setting up trunk ports. Proper interface configuration ensures efficient data transmission and network segmentation.
Example: Suppose you have a MikroTik switch with four Ethernet ports. You can configure Port 1 as a trunk port to carry multiple VLANs, Port 2 for a specific VLAN (e.g., VLAN 10 for HR), and Ports 3 and 4 for link aggregation to increase bandwidth and redundancy.
3. VLAN Configuration
VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) configuration allows you to segment a physical network into multiple logical networks. This enhances security and performance by isolating traffic between different VLANs. MikroTik SwitchOS supports both standard and extended VLANs, enabling flexible network design.
Example: In a school network, you might create three VLANs: VLAN 10 for students, VLAN 20 for teachers, and VLAN 30 for administrative staff. Each VLAN would have its own IP subnet and access policies, ensuring that student devices cannot access teacher resources and vice versa.
4. Spanning Tree Protocol (STP)
Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) is a network protocol that ensures a loop-free topology for Ethernet networks. It prevents network loops that can cause broadcast storms and network instability. MikroTik SwitchOS supports various STP variants, including Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP) and Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol (MSTP).
Example: In a data center with redundant links between switches, STP would automatically select one active path and block the others to prevent loops. If the active path fails, STP would quickly reactivate a blocked path to maintain connectivity without causing network disruptions.