It is the ability of MikroTik wireless equipment to create more than a single wireless network, in total up to 127 virtual APs. For example, with this option we can create an Administration WiFi network and another Guest WiFi network. Then we can add a different IP segment to each interface separately and define different policies, limitations.

Virtual APs (Virtual Access Points) in MikroTik are a functionality offered by RouterOS that allows a physical wireless device to create multiple wireless network interfaces or SSIDs (Service Set Identifiers) on the same hardware interface.

This means you can have multiple access points running on a single physical MikroTik device, each with its own network settings, SSID and security, as if they were independent wireless devices.

Uses and Benefits of Virtual APs:

• Multiple Wireless Networks: It allows network administrators to configure and offer multiple separate wireless networks, each with its own SSID, security policy and configuration, such as different VLANs for different departments, guests, IoT, etc.
• Network Segmentation: It helps in network segmentation, allowing different groups of users to have access to different network resources, thus improving security and traffic management.
• Bandwidth Management: Each virtual AP can have independent bandwidth management policies, allowing administrators to control how bandwidth is distributed among different groups of users or services.
• Flexibility in Security Configuration: It allows you to implement different levels of security on each wireless network, such as WPA2 for employees and an open network for visitors, all from a single physical device.
• Efectivity cost: Reduces the need to purchase additional hardware to support multiple wireless networks, saving on equipment and maintenance costs.

How to Configure a Virtual AP in MikroTik:

1. Access to Settings: Access your MikroTik device settings using WinBox or the command line interface (CLI).
2. Create the Virtual AP: Go to the wireless interfaces section and select the option to add a new wireless interface. Choose the interface type as “Virtual” and configure specific details such as SSID, security, and other network parameters.
3. Security settings: Configure security options for your virtual AP, including encryption and passwords.
4. Advanced Settings: As needed, make advanced settings such as VLAN configuration, bandwidth limits, and other network-specific parameters.

Virtual APs are a powerful and flexible solution for network administrators looking to maximize the use of their MikroTik devices and offer customized and secure wireless network services without the need for multiple physical devices.