On MikroTik RouterOS devices, the commands export file y export compact file They are used to generate a configuration file of the router's current configuration, but they have key differences in terms of what they include and how they present the information:

1. Export file

The command export file generates a configuration file containing all current device settings. This file will include all configured parameters, including those that are set to their default values.

It is a complete and detailed representation of the device's current configuration and can be quite extensive, depending on how much has been configured on the device.

2. Export compact file

The command export compact file also generates a configuration file, but emphasizes brevity. This command ignores values ​​that are set to their default values ​​and focuses only on parameters that have been modified by the user.

The result is a cleaner, easier-to-read file, containing only those settings that differ from the system's default settings.

Key Differences

• Brevity: export compact It is shorter and easier to manage, especially useful for quickly understanding the customizations applied to a device.
• Practical use: For troubleshooting purposes or to perform quick audits of the relevant configuration, export compact it is more convenient. On the other hand, export Full is more suitable for making a complete backup of all device settings.
• Ease of review: The file generated by export compact It is generally easier to review and analyze because it eliminates the “noise” of unaltered configurations.

When to Use Each

• For full backups: Uses export file when you need a complete copy of all settings, including default settings.
• For documentation or migrations: export compact file It is useful for documenting specific settings that an administrator has changed, or for migrating custom settings to another device regardless of the default settings.

Both commands are valuable tools for system administration in a MikroTik environment