MikroTik: Configure SNMP for Network Monitoring

SNMP for Network Monitoring

Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is a powerful tool for monitoring and managing network devices, including MikroTik routers. In this post w e will configure SNMP on MikroTik device to enable seamless integration with network monitoring tools such as The Dude, Zabbix, PRTG, or Nagios, allowing you to track metrics like bandwidth, uptime, and CPU usage effectively.

More details about SNMP on Mikrotik users you can check at the link.

Configure SNMP for Network Monitoring

To configure SNMP on a MikroTik router, it’s highly recommended to use the Winbox application, which provides a fast and user-friendly graphical interface for managing MikroTik devices. If you haven’t downloaded Winbox yet, you can follow this step-by-step guide to download and set it up:

• MikroTik Router Configuration with Winbox Application

After connecting to your router through Winbox, you’ll be able to access the SNMP settings and configure them for integration with your preferred network monitoring system.

Step 1: Enable SNMP on MikroTik

Log in to your MikroTik router via the WinBox application or CLI. Navigate to IP > SNMP to open the SNMP configuration window.

Step 2: Configure SNMP Versions and Communities

• Enable SNMP function on your MikroTik Router

• Press on Communities to add new string which you will use later in your monitoring software.
  • Under Trap Community you have to select the newly created community

• Under Trap Version choose SNMP version
  • SNMPv2: Set up a community string, which acts as a password. Use a strong, unique name to enhance security.
  • SNMPv3: For better security, configure SNMPv3, which supports authentication and encryption. Set up a username, password, and encryption protocol under the Security tab.

Step 3: Define Access Control under Src. Address

Restrict SNMP access to specific IP addresses or ranges under the Src. Address section to prevent unauthorized monitoring requests.

Step 4: Integrate with Monitoring Tools

Point your monitoring tool to the MikroTik device’s IP address and configure the SNMP community string or SNMPv3 credentials. Use Object Identifiers (OIDs) to fetch specific metrics.

Security Best Practices

• Always use SNMPv3 if supported.
• Change default community names immediately.
• Enable logging for SNMP requests to monitor potential misuse.