Title: Choosing the Best MikroTik License: A Comparison of Level 4, 5, 6, and CHR
What is a MikroTik Virtual Server?
A MikroTik Virtual Server is a VPS (Virtual Private Server) that runs the powerful RouterOS operating system developed by MikroTik. This OS is designed specifically for advanced network management, offering functionalities such as routing, firewalls, VPNs, bandwidth control, wireless configuration, and more.
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Using a MikroTik VPS allows users to access all these features without purchasing a physical router. However, access to features depends on the type of license installed on the RouterOS system. This guide explores those licenses and helps you choose the right one.
What is a MikroTik License?
A MikroTik license is the key that unlocks various features and capabilities within the RouterOS system. Each license level activates specific functions and sets limitations (or removes them) based on use cases. Choosing the correct license depends on your network’s size, user count, traffic volume, and desired control level.
MikroTik License Levels
Level 0 (Trial Mode)
- Free trial license
- Unlimited access to all features for 24 hours
- After the trial expires, functionality is restricted
- Used for evaluation only
Level 1 (Demo)
- Basic license for CPE (Customer Premises Equipment)
- Designed for wireless client devices
- Permanent license, limited to single-user functionality
Level 3 (WISP CPE)
- Entry-level commercial license
- Suitable for small wireless devices and CPE equipment
- Limited concurrent connections and tunnel support
Level 4 (WISP)
- Mid-range license suitable for small-to-medium wireless ISPs
- Supports limited tunnels and hotspot users
- Can be used for moderate routing and user management tasks
Level 5 (Advanced WISP)
- Enhanced version of Level 4
- Increases the number of supported tunnels, users, and queues
- Suitable for larger networks needing extended functionality
Level 6 (Controller)
- Highest standard license offered by MikroTik
- Unlimited tunnels, users, queues, hotspot sessions, and connections
- Supports all RouterOS features without restriction
- Best for ISPs, large organizations, and advanced networking
MikroTik CHR (Cloud Hosted Router) License
CHR is a version of RouterOS designed for virtual environments (e.g., VMware, KVM, VirtualBox). Unlike standard licenses, CHR licenses are bandwidth-based:
- P1: 1 Gbps upload
- P10: 10 Gbps upload
- P-Unlimited: Unlimited upload speed
While CHR licenses are cheaper and great for testing or small setups, users may experience slow speeds if they exceed their bandwidth allocation. Backup and re-activation may be required in restricted regions.
Key Use Cases of MikroTik Licenses
- Routing: Protocols like RIP, OSPF, BGP, MPLS
- Firewall and Network Security: IP filtering, port blocking, VPNs (PPTP, L2TP, IPsec, OVPN)
- Bandwidth Management: Traffic shaping, QoS, prioritization
- Wireless Network Control: AP and client configuration
- User Management: Hotspot setup, RADIUS integration, session tracking
L6 vs CHR: Which One Should You Choose?
| Feature | Level 6 License | CHR (Cloud Hosted Router) |
|---|---|---|
| Upload Bandwidth | Unlimited | Tiered: P1, P10, P-Unlimited |
| Feature Access | Full (no restrictions) | Full (restricted by bandwidth) |
| Best for | Physical or large VPS | Virtual environments |
| User Management | Unlimited users | Depends on bandwidth tier |
| Performance | Guaranteed full throughput | May require manual upgrades |
Who Should Use Level 6?
- Network administrators managing large or complex networks
- ISPs requiring high user and traffic capacity
- Businesses needing complete feature access with no caps
- Professionals building scalable infrastructures
Webdade MikroTik VPS with Level 6 License
Webdade offers fully licensed MikroTik VPS plans powered by Level 6 licenses, hosted in local and global data centers. Key benefits include:
- 10G real port access
- Full RouterOS updates synced with MikroTik
- IP Announcement and BGP support
- Unlimited tunnels and hotspot users
- IPV6 support
- SolusVM2 control panel with snapshot and backup features
Conclusion
If you’re looking to manage high-volume traffic, support a large number of users, or build an advanced, secure, and scalable network environment, the MikroTik Level 6 license is the best investment. For smaller setups or testing environments, CHR may suffice — but with limitations.
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Choose wisely based on your infrastructure, performance needs, and growth plans. For ultimate freedom, flexibility, and security, Level 6 leads the way.