Setup centralized hotspot controller over layer 3 network

RouterOS General
1

Hi all,

I need some guidance from experts here on setting up a centralized WIFI hotspot controller (using mikrotik server) + gateway over a layer 3 network, with end devices connecting via a bridge-mode DOCSIS cable modem running WIFI

The requirement is for all hotspot users to be redirected to a captive portal (be authenticated) then access the Internet.
The hotspots are located everywhere connected via layer 3 links.

The setup is not working, I need guidance and help to identify what is the problem and to make this work.

Setup diagram as below:
Layer3-Hotspot-Mikrotik.jpg
(1) The network DHCP is directly assigning IP information (IP, GW, DNS) to the hotspot users; (the DNS IP is currently not the mikrotik IP)
(2) The mikrotik server is not running any DHCP services

(3) The hotspot users IP network segment is different from Mikrotik server IP segment (separated by Layer 3 links)

(4) On the core router, I have redirected all packets from the hotspot users to the mikrotik server, and observed the following scenario:
(A) When the hotspot server function is disabled, traceroute from hotpot users to any destination shows traffic is flowing through the mikrotik server then towards the destination; however the webpage cannot be open, captive portal not working
(B) When the hotspot server function is enabled, traceroute from hotspot users to any destination terminates a mikrotik server ip; webpage cannot be open, captive portal not working

2

Did you ever solve the problem?

I may have a solution for you if you haven’t.

3

actually we want to use vlan for our pop. every pop should be in different vlan and each pop is connected over fiber using l3 switches (sfp compatible). as per the image we want that each l3 i.e. the first switch at pop should be connected with mikrotik then the distribution should be done as per the vlan and clients should get ip from mikrotik dhcp created individually for each vlan. we tried from our side but the thing is directly connected l3 switch is communicating with mikrotik but other l3 switches are not connecting with mikrotik due to which client doesn’t get ip from mikrotik
we got ping from mikrotik to other l3 switches at pop but other pop not getting internet and trunk and access port of the switch doesn’t communicate.
our hardware list is

  1. mikrotik routeros 6.31(pc version)
  2. cisco 2950 l3
    3.cisco 3750 l3
    4.cisco sf300 l3
    every switch is having fiber as well as ethernet port

thanks in advance

4

topology digram

5

I have a need to setup a centralized controller over layer 3, just as described in the original post. I’m curious to what your solution was to this. If you wouldn’t mind sharing.

6

I would be REALLY interested in knowing what that “solution” is.
You can reach me at ( caiblack AT hotmail DOT com )