First, create a script with a dynamic filename that includes the current date.
If your export file contains a command that changes the IP address or disables your management interface, you will lose connectivity. Always keep an out-of-band management route or use Safe Mode ( /system safe-mode ) before importing.
Drag the .rsc file into the Files menu of the target router. Import via Terminal: Open the terminal and run: /import file-name=full_config.rsc Use code with caution. Important Tips for Importing
Manually downloading files is tedious. Administrators should automate the export process using the built-in system scheduler and scripting. mikrotik export configuration
/export compact file=myconfig — (Default in RouterOS v6/v7) Only exports settings that differ from the factory default, making the file significantly cleaner and easier to read.
There are two primary methods to export your Mikrotik configuration:
: A human-readable text script containing RouterOS commands. It is ideal for migrating settings between different hardware models. First, create a script with a dynamic filename
/export file=my-config
This command creates firewall_rules.rsc , containing only your firewall configuration. You can also use from to export a single item from a list, such as a specific address list entry:
/import file=my-config.rsc
/user add name=admin password="MySecret123"
/system scheduler add name=weekly-export interval=7d start-time=02:00:00 on-event="/export file=auto_backup" Use code with caution. Conclusion
Restoring is straightforward, but dangerous if you’re connected remotely. The safest method is via local console or serial cable. Drag the
Creates a non-readable, encrypted binary file. It includes sensitive data like passwords, user accounts, and MAC addresses. It should only be restored on the exact same physical device or identical hardware. Restoring it on a different model will break interfaces and cause system instability.