I've setup at least 10 MikroTik routers or switches. They all "just work" without a problem. But, I can't get the newest one to work.
The newest (problem) unit is a RB2011UiAS-2HnD-IN that is connected v1a ETH1 to an already established hAP lite. After powering up the problem unit display shows
local ip: 192.168.88.1
ether1: 192.168.1.196 - this is a wireless connection that comes from the dhcp server in the network

Running WinBox on the hAP lite
1) the problem unit isn't shown as a neighbor to the hAP lite
2) the Interface List shows bytes being transmitted to the problem unit
3) running ping on 192.168.1.196 works with 0 or 1 ms. Also, the Interface shows bytes to and from problem unit.
4) running ping on 192.168.88.1 doesn't work

Submitting 192.168.1.196 to IE, Chrome or Safari on an iPad doesn't get anywhere - just times out with no WebFig showing.

I've tried turning off Avast.

What am I missing

ether1 is, by default, considered as WAN (read: evil internet) and no connections entering through ether1 are allowed.

That's firewall configuration. Read it, understand it and adjust it (very carefully).

Well, that did it. The real problem here is that my 71 year old eyes had a tough time reading the small print that came with the new router. It clearly said the "local network computers to the other ports". Thanks.

I applaud your adaptation/tenacity to make these things work. I hope I am still as capable in 12 years.