9.2 Automating Traffic Control Tasks Explained

Key Concepts

Automating Traffic Control Tasks in MikroTik RouterOS involves using scripts, schedules, and API calls to manage and optimize network traffic without manual intervention. Key concepts include:

• Scripts: Pre-written commands that can be executed automatically.
• Schedules: Time-based triggers to execute scripts or commands.
• API (Application Programming Interface): A set of commands and protocols for building applications that interact with MikroTik devices.

1. Scripts

Scripts in MikroTik RouterOS are sequences of commands that can be executed automatically. They are useful for repetitive tasks such as traffic shaping, firewall rule updates, and network monitoring.

For example, you can create a script to automatically update firewall rules every day. The script might look like this:

    /ip firewall filter
    add chain=input src-address=192.168.1.10 action=drop
    add chain=input src-address=192.168.1.20 action=accept
    

An analogy for scripts is a pre-programmed robot that performs a specific task without human intervention. The robot follows a set of instructions to complete the task efficiently.

2. Schedules

Schedules allow you to execute scripts or commands at specific times or intervals. This is useful for tasks that need to be performed regularly, such as daily backups or traffic monitoring.

For instance, you can schedule a script to run every Monday at 8 AM. The command to create a schedule might look like this:

    /system scheduler
    add name=FirewallUpdate on-event="/system script run UpdateFirewall" interval=1w
    

An analogy for schedules is an alarm clock that triggers an action at a specific time. The alarm ensures that the task is performed consistently and on time.

3. API (Application Programming Interface)

The MikroTik API allows external applications to interact with MikroTik devices programmatically. This enables automation of complex tasks and integration with other systems.

For example, you can use the API to create a Python script that retrieves network statistics from a MikroTik router. The Python code might look like this:

    import routeros_api
    connection = routeros_api.RouterOsApiPool('192.168.1.1', username='admin', password='password')
    api = connection.get_api()
    list(api.get_resource('/ip/firewall/filter').get())
    

An analogy for the API is a remote control that allows you to operate a device from a distance. The remote control sends commands to the device, enabling you to manage it without being physically present.

Examples and Analogies

Consider a large office with multiple departments. Each department has specific tasks that need to be performed regularly, such as cleaning, maintenance, and security checks. Automating these tasks ensures that they are performed consistently and efficiently, without the need for manual intervention.

An analogy for automating traffic control tasks is a smart home system that adjusts lighting, temperature, and security based on predefined schedules and conditions. The system ensures that everything runs smoothly without manual intervention.

Insightful Content

Understanding how to automate traffic control tasks is crucial for maintaining a secure, efficient, and reliable network. By using scripts, schedules, and the API, you can streamline network management and ensure that critical tasks are performed consistently. This knowledge is essential for any MikroTik Certified Traffic Control Engineer (MTCTCE).