Router OS is an operating system that allows MikroTik devices to function as routers, bandwidth sharers, packet filters, and wireless access points. It can be installed on RouterBOARD hardware or on PCs. RouterBOARD devices range in size from small home routers to large carrier-class access concentrators. WinBox is a software application used to configure Router OS remotely over an IP connection to the device. Communication between devices uses a seven-layer model, with the physical layer being hardware like Ethernet and higher layers including TCP, IP, and application protocols.