Updating MikroTik equipment, like any other network device, is a generally recommended practice, but it is not without considerations.

Updates can offer significant improvements in security, performance, and new features, but they can also carry risks if not done carefully.

We explain the points for and against always updating your MikroTik equipment:

Advantages of Updating

1. Security Enhancements: Probably the most critical reason to keep devices up to date. Updates usually include patches for security vulnerabilities that have been discovered since the last version, protecting computers against external attacks.
2. New features: Updates often bring new features and improvements that can increase the functionality of devices and offer new possibilities for network management.
3. Optimization and Performance: Bug fixes and code improvements can resolve existing performance issues, resulting in a more efficient and reliable network.
4. Compatibility: Keeping software up-to-date ensures compatibility with the latest networking technologies and standards.

Considerations and Precautions

1. Stability: New versions, especially those that are not LTS (Long-Term Support), may introduce new bugs or instabilities. For critical environments, it may be preferable to maintain a version that is known stable and secure.
2. Configuration Compatibility: Some updates may change the way certain settings work or are interpreted by the device, which could cause network problems if the settings are not reviewed and adjusted accordingly.
3. Hardware Requirements: New versions of the software may require more system resources. It is important to ensure that the hardware can support the new version without degrading performance.
4. Secure Update Process: It is crucial to have a backup procedure before performing any update. Ensuring that your configuration is backed up and knowing the rollback process are essential steps to mitigate risks.

Recommendations

• Test in Non-Critical Environments: If possible, first perform the update on devices that are not critical to network operation and verify operation and compatibility.
• Research and Plan: Before updating, research the new version release notes, known issues, and experiences of other users in the MikroTik community.
• Consider the Software Life Cycle: LTS releases offer a good balance between stability and security updates and could be the best option for critical environments.

In conclusion, while upgrading MikroTik devices is generally advisable to maintain network security and efficiency, it should be done in an informed and cautious manner.

The decision of when and how to upgrade should be based on a detailed assessment of the benefits and risks, always considering the specific environment in which you operate.