MikroTik NetBox 5 ax L11UG-5HaxD-NB

As networking demands grow and wireless connectivity becomes more essential in outdoor deployments, finding a durable and high-performance device is key. MikroTik, a brand known for its reliable and flexible networking solutions, has introduced an upgraded version of its outdoor wireless device—the MikroTik NetBox 5 ax L11UG-5HaxD-NB. Designed with Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) technology and advanced wireless capabilities, this MikroTik Access Point is purpose-built for long-distance point-to-point and point-to-multipoint links. Whether you’re building an outdoor wireless network, connecting remote facilities, or setting up broadband coverage, the NetBox 5 ax offers robust performance with future-ready features.

What is MikroTik NetBox 5 ax L11UG-5HaxD-NB?

The MikroTik NetBox 5 ax L11UG-5HaxD-NB is an outdoor wireless device featuring 5GHz dual-chain 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) support. It is engineered for outdoor use and comes with a weatherproof enclosure, making it ideal for rough and demanding environments. The device is equipped with a powerful quad-core ARM processor and 256 MB RAM, ensuring high throughput and reliability in challenging scenarios.

This model supports Gigabit Ethernet and includes a SFP port, allowing for both wired and fiber optic connections. With RouterOS pre-installed and full support for MikroTik’s wireless protocol (Nv2, Nstreme), the NetBox 5 ax is suitable for both simple and complex wireless networking environments.

Key Features of MikroTik NetBox 5 ax L11UG-5HaxD-NB

Wi-Fi 6 Technology

The highlight of the NetBox 5 ax is its support for 802.11ax, also known as Wi-Fi 6. This ensures better efficiency, higher speed, and improved performance in high-density wireless deployments. Compared to previous generations, Wi-Fi 6 offers:

• Higher throughput

• Better signal stability

• Enhanced interference management

• More simultaneous client connections

These features make the device highly suitable for urban areas, campus setups, and environments where multiple wireless links need to coexist.

Outdoor-Ready Design

Built for the outdoors, the NetBox 5 ax comes with a rugged, weather-resistant case that protects it from harsh weather conditions like rain, wind, and dust. The enclosure meets industrial-grade requirements, making it perfect for outdoor towers, rooftops, or rural installations.

High-Speed Connectivity

Equipped with:

• Gigabit Ethernet port for high-speed wired connectivity
• SFP cage for fiber-optic network expansion
• Quad-core 800 MHz CPU for fast processing
• 256 MB RAM to support demanding workloads

The combination of these hardware elements ensures consistent performance even in data-intensive tasks like video streaming or large file transfers.

Antenna Flexibility

The NetBox 5 ax does not come with a built-in antenna, giving users the flexibility to choose the best external antenna for their application. This makes it ideal for:

• Point-to-point links
• Sector deployments
• Custom directional configurations

It supports standard RP-SMA connectors, allowing compatibility with a wide range of MikroTik and third-party antennas.

Benefits of MikroTik NetBox 5 ax

• Future-Proof Connectivity: Thanks to Wi-Fi 6, it’s ready for the next generation of wireless networking.
• Improved Efficiency: OFDMA and MU-MIMO support reduce latency and improve performance in crowded environments.
• Flexible Deployment: SFP port and RP-SMA connectors provide multiple options for connectivity and antenna use.
• Rugged Design: Built to last in tough outdoor environments with industrial-grade durability.
• Customizable with RouterOS: Run custom firewall, routing, and bandwidth rules tailored to your network design.

Common Use Cases

The MikroTik NetBox 5 ax L11UG-5HaxD-NB is versatile and can be used in several scenarios:

• Long-Distance Wireless Links – When paired with high-gain directional antennas, it can connect distant buildings or towers.
• Rural Internet Distribution – Perfect for ISPs providing internet to remote homes or farms.
• Campus & Enterprise Wi-Fi Extension – Extend wireless coverage over large outdoor areas such as campuses, industrial parks, or resorts.
• Surveillance Networks – Ideal for connecting outdoor IP cameras over large areas.

Comparison with Previous Models

Compared to its predecessor, the NetBox 5 (802.11ac), the new NetBox 5 ax brings a number of upgrades:

These improvements significantly enhance performance, especially in modern, high-traffic networks.

Installation and Mounting Tips

The NetBox 5 ax includes a pole-mounting bracket and zip ties for quick installation. Here are a few tips for optimal performance:

• Height matters: Mount at a high elevation to ensure clear line-of-sight.
• Use shielded cables: Especially in lightning-prone areas, to reduce interference and damage.
• Use with compatible antennas: Choose antennas based on your desired coverage pattern (e.g., directional vs. sector).
• Weatherproof your setup: Use proper cable sealing to prevent moisture ingress.

Real-World Example: Connecting Two Remote Warehouses

Let’s say you need to connect two warehouses located 3 km apart with stable internet access and camera monitoring. Using two MikroTik NetBox 5 ax units with 30 dBi directional antennas, you can easily create a point-to-point wireless bridge. This allows both locations to share a network and access resources like file servers, VoIP, and security systems—without running expensive underground cables.

Optimize Performance with RouterOS Features

MikroTik’s RouterOS is a powerful operating system that lets you do far more than just basic routing. Here’s how to enhance your NetBox 5 ax performance:

• Enable Nv2 Protocol: For better point-to-multipoint throughput
• Use Traffic Prioritization (QoS): Give VoIP or video surveillance higher priority
• Configure Firewall Rules: Enhance security at the edge of your network
• Monitor Links: Use tools like Ping, Torch, and Bandwidth Test to troubleshoot and optimize

RouterOS is endlessly customizable, making this device not just hardware, but a smart edge-networking solution.

Pair with Antenna Kits for Max Coverage

If you’re setting up a longer-range link or covering a wide area, MikroTik’s antenna kits like the mANTBox 15s or mANT30 dish pair perfectly with the NetBox 5 ax. With these combinations, you can achieve:

• Extended range (up to 10+ km)
• Focused signal for point-to-point
• Broad coverage for point-to-multipoint

This modularity gives you the freedom to scale your network as your needs grow.

Technical Specifications MikroTik L11UG-5HaxD-NB

Here is the full technical spec sheet for the MikroTik NetBox 5 ax L11UG-5HaxD-NB:

Final Thoughts

The MikroTik NetBox 5 ax L11UG-5HaxD-NB is a powerhouse outdoor wireless device that brings modern performance with Wi-Fi 6 and the flexibility needed for real-world deployments. From long-range point-to-point connections to robust multipoint wireless infrastructures, this unit is built for high performance and reliability. If you’re planning to upgrade your wireless network or deploy a new outdoor setup, this device should be high on your list.

With its rugged design, flexible connectivity, and MikroTik’s feature-rich RouterOS, the NetBox 5 ax delivers everything you need to build reliable and high-speed outdoor wireless networks.