RouterOS
RouterOS is an operating system that will turn into a router with all necessary features
RouterOS is an operating system from MikroTik, primarily designed for network hardware based on RouterBOARD and used to manage routers. It is also possible to install the system on a personal computer compatible with i386 architecture, thus turning it into a router.
The system supports a large number of protocols and network interfaces, allowing you to use the computer, depending on the purpose, as a firewall, VPN server, FTP server, proxy server, wired or wireless access point and much more. The user is provided with a selection of the desired components during installation. The WinBox graphical utility is used for configuration; besides, there is a possibility to access settings through the web-interface or SSH terminal, as well as through serial COM-port and HyperTerminal. On the official website there is a large amount of documentation, which developers maintain up to date.
RouterOS offers robust network control with customizable components, supporting various protocols and network interfaces.
It should be noted that RouterOS is installed on a clean hard drive and cannot work as a second operating system (for example, with Windows). A properly configured program does not require the constant presence of an administrator, and demonstrates good fault tolerance and reliability in standalone operation.
- several interfaces for remote control of the system;
- High reliability and fault tolerance;
- Support for a large number of hardware networking devices and personal computers;
- support for a large number of protocols and network interfaces;
- Ability to work as a firewall, router, MPLS-device, VPN-server, wireless access point, DHCP-server, hot-spot server, proxy-server and so on;
- QoS standard support;
- the ability to hide local networks via NAT Masquerading;
- A large number of different tools for network operation and maintenance;
- Developed documentation system.
PROS
Offers detailed and customizable user management.
Supports numerous hardware platforms.
CONS
Limited customer support available.
Expensive compared to other similar software.
