A Beginner’s Guide to Using MikroTik Torch for Network Traffic Analysis

MikroTik Torch is one of the most powerful and versatile tools included in MikroTik’s RouterOS for real-time traffic analysis. Whether you’re troubleshooting network issues, monitoring bandwidth usage, or identifying unusual traffic, Torch can help you gain deep insights into your network’s behavior. In this guide, we’ll explore how to use MikroTik Torch effectively. What Is … Read more

Setting Up a BGP Peer with Mikrotik RouterOS Version 7

Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) is an essential protocol for internet routing, enabling autonomous systems (AS) to communicate and exchange routing information. Mikrotik RouterOS Version 7 introduced significant enhancements to its BGP implementation, making it more powerful and versatile. This guide walks you through setting up a BGP peer using RouterOS Version 7. Prerequisites Before proceeding, … Read more

Tuning a DWDM optic. What does it mean?

fiber optic switch with bright connectors in studio

In my ongoing series about DWDM, today were are talking about tuning. Tuning a DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing) optic refers to configuring or adjusting the specific wavelength the optic module transmits or receives within the DWDM spectrum. This tuning capability allows network operators to select a particular wavelength or channel from the available DWDM … Read more

Some networking jokes

Why did the router break up with the modem?It felt like they just weren’t on the same wavelength anymore! Why do network engineers always carry a pen?Because they can’t rely on their LAN to write things down! Why did the router go to therapy?It had too many connections but still felt so isolated!

Configuring BGP Filters on MikroTik RouterOS v7: Part1

BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) is essential for dynamic routing in modern networks. MikroTik’s RouterOS version 7 introduces significant updates to BGP functionality, making it more efficient and flexible. This guide walks you through configuring BGP filters on MikroTik RouterOS v7 to manage route propagation effectively. Prerequisites Before diving into the configuration, ensure: Step 1: Access … Read more

Configuring WireGuard on a MikroTik Router

This content is for Patreon subscribers of the j2 blog. Please consider becoming a Patreon subscriber for as little as $1 a month. This helps to provide higher quality content, more podcasts, and other goodies on this blog.To view this content, you must be a member of Justin’s Patreon Unlock with PatreonAlready a qualifying Patreon … Read more

Atheral on the Unlicensed Podcast

In this episode of Unlicensed Podcast, we’re gonna take a deeper dive into VoIP solutions from Atheral LLC. Our guests are Daniel White and Veronica Perrin, who will tell their story of growing their business, what struggles they face and what’s their expectations about future and VoIP services. Atheral’s white-label, client-centric VoIP platform is designed … Read more

Packets Down Range #33: The 2025 Conference and show edition

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from me. I have been working feverishly on new blog posts since Thanksgiving. I have the first 3 weeks of January scheduled for a blog post a day. As part of this, I have amassed a huge list of conferences and shows. This PDR will mainly focus on ISP and … Read more