Run this in RouterOS terminal (adjust interface name and target MAC/ID as needed):
/system identity set name="New-Router-Name" /interface ethernet set [find name="ether1"] mac-address=AA:BB:CC:DD:EE:FF /system routerboard settings set software-id="NEW-SOFTWARE-ID-HERE" /system reboot
Notes:
The Software ID (SoftID) in MikroTik RouterOS is a unique eight-character identifier used to link a software license to specific hardware. Changing it is rarely a routine task and typically happens automatically when you replace a storage drive or move to a new virtual instance. Key Functions of the Software ID
Licensing Anchor: For x86 systems (PCs), the license is tied to the Software ID, which is generated based on the hard drive's unique fingerprint.
Virtual Identification: In Cloud Hosted Router (CHR) environments, the System ID functions similarly to link perpetual licenses to specific virtual instances.
Verification: The ID is required when purchasing or upgrading a license key through the MikroTik account portal. When and How the Software ID Changes
You cannot manually "type in" a new Software ID; instead, it is regenerated or transferred through specific actions: mikrotik change software id link
Hardware Replacement: Replacing the hard drive or flash media on an x86 system will result in a new Software ID.
Action: You must request a Replacement Key from MikroTik Support or your vendor, usually providing proof of the failed original drive.
CHR License Transfer: To move a license between virtual machines, you generate a new instance (which creates a new ID) and then use the "Transfer" button in your MikroTik account to move the license from the old ID to the new one.
Manual Regeneration (CHR only): The command /system/license/generate-new-id can force a new ID on a CHR instance.
Warning: This often causes the device to lose its existing license and get stuck in "free mode" if not handled correctly through the account portal.
Typo Correction: For new x86 keys that haven't been upgraded yet, MikroTik allows changing up to two characters of the Software ID for free to fix manual entry mistakes. License Management Links Action/Link Manage Keys
Access the MikroTik Client Account to view SoftIDs and active keys. Request Replacement Run this in RouterOS terminal (adjust interface name
Fill out the support contact form at MikroTik Support for hardware failures. Check Current ID
Open WinBox, go to System -> License, or run /system license print in the terminal.
Important Disclaimer: The Software ID is a cryptographic hash derived from your RouterBoard hardware (or x86 disk serial). You cannot manually change the Software ID to a custom value. What users typically mean by "changing" is replacing it via a Netinstall reinstallation, or linking a purchased license to a new ID.
This guide explains what the Software ID is, how to reset it, and how to transfer licenses associated with it.
If your goal is related to licensing or support, ensure you have a valid license. The license is tied to the Software ID.
You can change the identity of your device, which doesn't directly change the Software ID but changes how the device is identified on the network.
Step 1: Get the NEW Software ID
Step 2: Log into MikroTik Account
Step 3: Unbind the License from OLD ID
Step 4: Bind to NEW ID
Step 5: Renew License on Router
Limitations:
The keyword suggests a link that changes the ID. This does not exist directly inside RouterOS.
The word "link" actually refers to two separate things: The Software ID (SoftID) in MikroTik RouterOS is
You cannot click a button inside WinBox that randomly generates a new ID. Instead, you follow a process where the new ID is paired with your license via a direct download link from MikroTik’s license management page.