Yes, MikroTik equipment is capable of adding several internet lines, including fiber optic connections, through a process known as load balancing or “bonding”. This process allows multiple network links to be combined to increase the total available bandwidth and improve the redundancy and reliability of the Internet connection.
How does load balancing work in MikroTik?
Load balancing in MikroTik can be configured in a variety of ways, depending on specific needs and network configuration. RouterOS, MikroTik's operating system, offers several methods to perform load balancing:
- ECMP (Equal Cost Multi-Path): Allows routing of packets through multiple gateways that have the same path cost. It is useful for distributing traffic evenly across multiple connections.
- PCC (Per Connection Classifier): This technique is based on classifying connections and distributing them among the available links. It is very effective in ensuring that a specific user session stays on the same path to avoid session and balancing issues.
- Bonding Interfaces: In addition to load balancing, MikroTik also offers a feature called “bonding”, which allows the aggregation of multiple physical interfaces into a single logical interface. This not only increases bandwidth but also provides redundancy.
Typical configuration for load balancing
To configure load balancing on a MikroTik router, you would follow general steps like these:
- Configure each Internet connection: Make sure each fiber optic line is properly configured and functional individually.
- Set the routes: Define routes in the MikroTik to use multiple gateways.
- Configure the load balancing method: Uses ECMP, PCC, or other appropriate methodology to distribute traffic among available connections.
- monitoring and adjustment: After configuring load balancing, it is crucial to monitor network performance to ensure traffic is distributed efficiently and make adjustments as necessary.
The ability to add multiple fiber optic internet lines using MikroTik equipment gives businesses and service providers the flexibility to expand their broadband capacity as their demand grows, while improving the resiliency and availability of their connection to Internet.
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