Installation Guide

RouterOS License Installation Guide

Installing a RouterOS license key takes a couple of minutes and, for most upgrades, doesn’t require a reboot. Here’s the full walkthrough.

Before You Start

  • Have your .key file ready (see the Download Guide if you haven’t received it yet)
  • Connect to your router via Winbox or WebFig
  • For core/production routers, schedule a short maintenance window as good practice

Installing via Winbox

  1. Open System > License

    In the left-hand menu, go to System, then License.

  2. Click Import Key (or Paste Key)

    Select your saved .key file with Import Key, or paste the key text directly with the Paste Key button if we sent it as plain text rather than a file.

  3. Confirm the license level

    The License window will update to show your new RouterOS level (4, 5, or 6) immediately.

  4. Reboot if prompted

    Most license upgrades apply instantly, but RouterOS will tell you if a reboot is required for your specific case.

Installing via WebFig

Log into your router’s IP address in a browser, open System > License, and use the same Import Key option described above.

Installing via the Terminal

If we sent your license as key text, run:

/system license update key=YOUR_LICENSE_KEY

If we sent it as a .key file, upload it to your router’s file list (via FTP, SFTP, or drag-and-drop in Winbox’s file manager), then run:

/system license import file-name=yourfile.key

Troubleshooting

RouterOS says the key doesn’t match this device
This means the key was generated against a different Software ID than the one on this router. Double-check you copied the Software ID from the correct device at checkout, then contact support — do not attempt to install the key on a different device.
The License window still shows the old level after import
Some license changes require a reboot to take effect. Save your configuration and reboot the router, then check System > License again.
Can I reinstall the same key after a RouterOS reset?
Yes — as long as the Software ID hasn’t changed (a factory reset doesn’t change it), you can re-import the same key file you were originally sent.

Installing on x86 or Upgrading to RouterOS v7?

This guide covers importing a license key on any device. For PC/VM-specific installation steps, safely reinstalling with Netinstall, or moving from RouterOS v6 to v7, see our dedicated guides.

x86

x86 Installation Guide

Installing RouterOS on a PC or virtual machine, and finding your Software ID on first boot.

 Netinstall

Netinstall Guide

Reinstalling RouterOS over the network without destroying your license.

 v7

Upgrading to RouterOS v7

What changes in BGP, OSPF, and routing filters when you move to v7.

Need More Help?

If something doesn’t look right, contact our support team with your order number and we’ll help you get it sorted.

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