In which situation can Netinstall not be used to install RouterOS on a RouterBOARD?

Netinstall is a powerful tool for installing or reinstalling RouterOS on MikroTik devices, specifically RouterBOARDs. The situation where Netinstall cannot be used involves the router being connected only to a wireless network.

This is due to the fact that Netinstall operates through a direct Ethernet connection. The process requires the device to be in a specific mode, and the Netinstall application communicates directly over Ethernet for the initial installation or recovery of RouterOS. If the router is only connected to a wireless network, it will not be able to receive the necessary data packets from the Netinstall tool, thus preventing the installation process. This limitation emphasizes the importance of a proper wired connection when utilizing Netinstall for RouterOS installation.

In contrast, situations where the router lacks an operating system or when the password is unknown do not prevent the use of Netinstall. The tool is specifically designed to recover or install the operating system regardless of the current state of the existing software or credentials, as long as there is an Ethernet connection available.