Alternatively, use an client to log into your router IP and download the file. How to Import a Configuration File
To generate an export, open the in Winbox or via SSH and use the following commands:
Once you have your exports as text files, you can automatically track every change you make. This is a game-changer for troubleshooting and compliance.
If you are currently setting up a backup or moving to a new device, tell me: What (v6 or v7) are you running? mikrotik export configuration
To export a MikroTik configuration, you use the /export command in the terminal to generate a script-based .rsc file. Unlike binary .backup files, these are plain-text and human-readable, making them ideal for auditing or migrating settings between different hardware models.
Or via drag-and-drop into WinBox Files → right-click → .
Even experienced engineers can trip up when using mikrotik export configuration . Here are the most common issues: Alternatively, use an client to log into your
This guide provides a deep dive into using the /export command in RouterOS (current as of 2026), covering everything from simple backups to complex, automated scripting. What is a MikroTik Export File ( .rsc )?
: export verbose file=myconfig — Includes every single parameter, including those still at their default values. This is useful for deep troubleshooting or learning default behaviors.
/export compact file=my-compact-config
You can export the entire router configuration or target a specific subsection, such as just your firewall rules or IP addresses.
The /system backup save command creates a binary .backup file that is a complete snapshot of your entire router's state. However, this method is not recommended for migrating configurations as it is hardware and version-specific. It is best used for disaster recovery on the exact same device.