How to Install Microtik RouterOS On VirtualBox

 

🔧 Requirements

• VirtualBox installed (latest version recommended)
• MikroTik RouterOS image (CHR – Cloud Hosted Router)
• Download from: https://mikrotik.com/download
• Choose CHR version > download the .img file (RAW disk image)

 

🪛 Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Convert .img to .vdi (VirtualBox format)

VirtualBox does not support .img directly, so you need to convert it:

Open terminal (Command Prompt or PowerShell on Windows, Terminal on macOS/Linux):

#bash

VBoxManage convertfromraw --format VDI routeros-7.xx.img routeros.vdi

• Replace routeros-7.xx.img with the actual filename.
• This creates a routeros.vdi file.

2. Create a New Virtual Machine in VirtualBox

1. Open VirtualBox, click New.
2. Name: MikroTik-CHR
3. Type: Linux
4. Version: Other Linux (64-bit)
5. RAM: Minimum 256MB (512MB or more recommended)
6. Click Create, then:

3. Attach the Converted Disk

1. Go to Settings > Storage
2. Remove the default virtual hard disk (optional).
3. Click Add Hard Disk > Choose existing disk > select the routeros.vdi file.
4. Make sure it's attached to the SATA controller.

4. Configure Network Settings

1. Go to Settings > Network
2. Enable Adapter 1, set to Bridged Adapter or NAT (depending on your setup).
3. Optionally, enable Adapter 2 as an Internal Network or Host-only Adapter if simulating multi-interface setups.

5. Start the Virtual Machine

1. Click Start.
2. RouterOS should boot into the command line.
3. Default username: admin
4. No password (just press Enter)

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🧪 Optional: Access via Winbox/WebFig

1. From your host PC, download Winbox: https://mikrotik.com/download
2. Winbox will detect the virtual MikroTik via MAC or IP.
3. Log in and start configuring via GUI.

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🔁 Useful Tips

• After first login, set a password for the admin account.
• Use Snapshots in VirtualBox to save states before making big changes.
• You can use multiple network adapters to simulate routers, firewalls, or gateways.