Step 1: Verify Netinstall Setup

  1. Test on Another Device: To ensure Netinstall is configured correctly, try Netinstalling a different router.
  2. Use the Latest Version: Download the latest Stable or Testing version of Netinstall.
  3. Make sure to access the latest files for this procedure by visiting the products page at https://mikrotik.com/products to find your product. The necessary packages can be found under the "Support & Downloads" menu.

Step 2: Prerequisites for Netinstall

For a successful installation, ensure that your configuration meets these requirements:

  • Direct Ethernet Connection: Connect the router’s Ethernet port directly to the PC.
  • Same Subnet: Both devices should be on the same subnet.
  • Disable Firewalls & Antivirus: Disable any firewall and antivirus programs on your PC.
  • Use Reset Button Correctly: Make sure to press the reset button accurately to enable bootp mode.

For more detailed steps, refer to the MikroTik Netinstall guide.

Step 3: Using Bootloaders for Netinstall

With Serial Console:

  1. Regular Bootloader: Press Ctrl+E in the serial console to enter etherboot mode, or press the Reset button 1-2 seconds after powering on.
  2. Backup Bootloader: Power off the device, hold the Reset button, power on the device, wait for the LEDs sequence (blinking, then stable, then off), then release the button.

Without Serial Console:

  1. Regular Bootloader: Press the Reset button 1-2 seconds after powering on.
  2. Backup Bootloader: Power off the device, hold the Reset button, power on the device, wait for the LEDs sequence (blinking, then stable, then off), then release the button.

Step 4: Additional Tips

  1. Disable Other Network Interfaces: Enable only the interface directly connected to the router for Netinstall.
  2. Run as Administrator: Launch netinstall.exe with administrator privileges.
  3. For Linux, run  netinstall-cli with sudo.
  4. Network Configuration: Set the connection to Private and assign a static IP to the interface.
  5. Try Different Ethernet Cables: Replace cables if issues persist.
  6. Boot Device Setting: If the router is accessible before reinstalling, go to System > Routerboard > Settings > Boot Device and select "try-ethernet-once-then-nand".

Optional - Use a Switch: In rare cases, placing a switch between the PC and router can resolve hardware compatibility issues. For DHCP snooping, enable "trusted" on bridge ports facing Netinstall.

Optional - Use a Switch: In rare cases, placing a switch between the PC and router can resolve hardware compatibility issues. For DHCP snooping, enable "trusted" on bridge ports facing Netinstall.

Issue: Status shows "ready" without starting the reinstallation after clicking Install.

Solution: Keep the router in bootp mode and restart the Netinstall application. If that doesn’t help, restart your PC and try again.