Installing MikroTik on Ubuntu is a practical solution for users who want to run MikroTik RouterOS CHR on a VPS or dedicated server where direct ISO mounting is not available. By using Ubuntu as the base operating system and deploying MikroTik through virtualization, it becomes possible to access advanced routing and firewall features without changing the server’s primary OS.
This guide explains how to install MikroTik on Ubuntu in a step-by-step manner, utilizing an automated script specifically designed for real-world server environments. The process is suitable for network administrators, DevOps engineers, and advanced users who need a reliable MikroTik setup on Linux infrastructure.
Installing MikroTik on an Ubuntu Server
Installing MikroTik on Ubuntu is achieved by running MikroTik CHR inside a virtualized environment powered by QEMU.
“MikroTik Cloud Hosted Router (CHR) is a RouterOS version designed to run as a virtual machine on hypervisors, allowing full routing functionality without dedicated hardware.”_ MikroTik Documentation
This method allows Ubuntu to remain installed while MikroTik RouterOS operates as a dedicated virtual router with full network capabilities. It is especially useful on VPS platforms that restrict ISO attachment or custom boot images.
Before proceeding, it is important to understand that this method modifies disk partitions and network settings. For that reason, the installation should only be performed on a fresh Ubuntu server or a system where all important data has been fully backed up.
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Prerequisites for Installing MikroTik on Ubuntu
Before you install MikroTik on Ubuntu, the server must meet several basic requirements to ensure a stable and predictable deployment. These prerequisites are essential for avoiding data loss and network misconfiguration during the setup process.
The installation environment should meet the following conditions:
- A VPS or dedicated server running Ubuntu 20.04 or Ubuntu 22.04, both of which have been tested with this method
- Active internet connectivity to download MikroTik CHR and required packages
- Root or sudo access to the server
- No critical data is stored on the server, as disk partitions may be overwritten
This installation approach uses QEMU-based virtualization, allowing MikroTik CHR to run independently while Ubuntu remains the host operating system.
Automated Script Method to Install MikroTik on Ubuntu
The easiest and most reliable way to install MikroTik on Ubuntu is by using an automated installation script. This script handles package installation, virtualization setup, disk preparation, and MikroTik CHR deployment without requiring manual configuration at each step.
This approach is particularly valuable when ISO-based installation is not possible, which is a common limitation on many VPS providers.
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Updating Ubuntu Before Installation
Before running the script, the Ubuntu system must be fully updated to avoid dependency conflicts and ensure compatibility with virtualization packages. This step prepares the operating system for a clean MikroTik installation process.
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -yCompleting this update ensures that all core packages and security components are in a stable state before MikroTik is deployed.
Deploying MikroTik CHR on Ubuntu
One of the most practical ways to run MikroTik RouterOS on an Ubuntu server is by deploying the official MikroTik Cloud Hosted Router (CHR) image inside a virtualized environment. This approach allows Ubuntu to remain installed while MikroTik operates as an independent virtual router.
Unlike third-party installation scripts, this method relies directly on the official CHR image provided by MikroTik, offering greater transparency and control over the installation process.
Preparing the Ubuntu Server
Before deploying MikroTik CHR, update the operating system and install the required virtualization utilities:
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sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
sudo apt install -y unzip qemu-utils qemu-system-x86
Keeping the system updated helps prevent package conflicts and ensures compatibility with the virtualization components required to run MikroTik CHR.
Downloading the Official MikroTik CHR Image
Download the latest Cloud Hosted Router image directly from MikroTik:
wget https://download.mikrotik.com/routeros/7.20.2/chr-7.20.2.img.zip
After the download completes, extract the archive:
unzip chr-7.20.2.img.zip
This produces the CHR disk image that will be used to launch MikroTik RouterOS.
Starting MikroTik CHR
Launch the CHR virtual machine using QEMU:
qemu-system-x86_64 \
-m 1024 \
-hda chr-7.20.2.img \
-net nic \
-net user
Depending on the server environment and network configuration, additional QEMU networking parameters may be required to provide external connectivity.
Once the virtual machine starts successfully, MikroTik RouterOS will boot automatically and become available for management.
Default Login Credentials
After the first boot, MikroTik CHR uses the default credentials:
Username: admin
Password: (blank)
For security reasons, the administrator password should be changed immediately after the first login.
Troubleshooting
If MikroTik does not start correctly after deployment, verify the following:
- Hardware virtualization is available and enabled if KVM acceleration is being used.
- The CHR image was downloaded and extracted successfully.
- The server has sufficient RAM and CPU resources available for the virtual machine.
- Firewall rules or provider-level restrictions are not blocking access to the MikroTik instance.
Reviewing the QEMU console output can often help identify startup or networking issues.
Important Notes
Before deploying MikroTik CHR on Ubuntu, consider the following recommendations:
- Always download CHR images from official MikroTik sources.
- Test deployments in a non-production environment whenever possible.
- Maintain backups of important configurations before making networking changes.
- Verify virtualization support with your VPS or dedicated server provider.
Following these best practices helps ensure a stable and predictable MikroTik deployment on Ubuntu-based infrastructure.
Accessing MikroTik After Installation
Following the reboot, MikroTik RouterOS becomes available. Login credentials are defined by the script configuration and should be reviewed immediately upon access.
At this stage, MikroTik operates fully inside the Ubuntu-based virtual environment and can be managed using standard MikroTik tools such as WinBox, SSH, or console access.
Licensing Considerations for MikroTik CHR
When you install MikroTik on Ubuntu, the CHR version runs with limited functionality until a license is applied. MikroTik CHR does not offer unrestricted free usage, and performance limits apply without activation.
Available license levels include:
- Level 4 for basic routing needs
- Level 5 for higher throughput
- Level 6 for maximum performance and full feature access
Selecting the appropriate license depends on traffic volume, routing complexity, and production requirements.
Important Notes Before Running Installation Scripts
Installing MikroTik on Ubuntu using automated scripts involves direct interaction with storage devices and network interfaces. These actions must be performed carefully to avoid unintended consequences.
Keep the following points in mind:
- The script may overwrite disk data, commonly targeting
/dev/sda
- Existing partitions and files can be permanently removed.
- Network settings are modified during setup.
- Scripts should always be reviewed before execution.
Running such scripts on production systems without backups is strongly discouraged.
Conclusion
Installing MikroTik on Ubuntu is a powerful solution for deploying MikroTik RouterOS CHR on VPS and cloud servers where traditional installation methods are unavailable. By leveraging virtualization through QEMU and automated scripts, users can achieve a fully functional MikroTik environment with minimal manual intervention.
This method significantly reduces setup complexity, saves time, and enables advanced routing capabilities on Linux-based infrastructure. When performed on a clean Ubuntu server with proper backups, installing MikroTik on Ubuntu becomes a reliable and efficient approach for modern network deployments.
Frequently Asked Questions About Installing MikroTik on Ubuntu
Can I install MikroTik directly on Ubuntu without virtualization?
No, MikroTik RouterOS cannot be installed natively on Ubuntu because it is a standalone operating system, not a Linux package.
Is installing MikroTik on Ubuntu safe for production servers?
Installing MikroTik on Ubuntu can be safe for production use only if it is performed on a clean server with no critical data.
Which Ubuntu versions are supported for installing MikroTik?
The most reliable results for installing MikroTik on Ubuntu are achieved with Ubuntu 20.04 and Ubuntu 22.04. These versions are widely supported, stable, and compatible with the required virtualization packages used to run MikroTik CHR.
Do I need a MikroTik license after installation?
Yes, MikroTik CHR requires a valid license to unlock full functionality. Without a license, the router operates under strict limitations. Depending on your traffic and performance requirements, you can choose between Level 4, Level 5, or Level 6 licenses.
What should I do if MikroTik does not start after running the script?
If MikroTik does not load immediately after installation, the issue is usually related to how the VPS initializes virtualization services. In such cases, powering off the server completely from the VPS control panel and then starting it again often resolves the problem.
