A Latvian company supplying hacker-friendly MIPS-based routers and proprietary Linux implementations to the enterprise and WISP (wireless Internet service provider) markets will hold its annual U.S. user meeting next month. The MikroTik User Meeting (MUM) will focus on network deployment strategies, and is set for May 28-30, in Orlando, Fla.

MikroTik offers MIPS-based “RouterBoard” hardware that comes pre-installed with the company's own RouterOS Linux implementation, but can also run Debian Linux. The company also offers a network monitoring and management package called “The Dude.” And, it maintains RouterOS, a Linux-based OS with a highly customized shell with many powerful features. More details can be found in the current version's reference documentation and especially in the user Wiki.

At its 2007 U.S. event, MikroTik expects to unveil two new “high-performance” hardware platforms, including a RouterBOARD 333 model and a RouterBOARD 1000, to feature Gigabit Ethernet. Other touted presentations include:

• HotSpot networks on a moving train — real experiences
• Long range and high speed wireless (60 miles high speed!)
• The Dude network management suite
• The “user manager” built into RouterOS

MikroTik holds half a dozen user meetings each year around the world. Its Dallas-based 2006 MUM drew 140 participants; presentations from that event are hosted here.

The Orlando MUM costs $50 to attend. Registration details are here. Additionally, a Nigeria MUM will take place on April 28; details here.

Another interesting commercial Linux router distribution, Vyatta, recently shipped a 2.0 release.

 
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