Ubiquiti UniFi - Detailed Review
Networking Tools
Ubiquiti UniFi - Product Overview
Ubiquiti UniFi Overview
Ubiquiti UniFi is a comprehensive line of networking equipment and software designed to meet the diverse needs of various users, from home networks to large-scale enterprise environments.Primary Function
The primary function of UniFi is to provide a unified platform for managing and monitoring network infrastructure. This includes wireless access points, routers, switches, security cameras, VoIP phones, and access control systems. At the heart of UniFi are its Cloud Gateways, which act as industry-leading gateways/firewalls and run the UniFi application suite, enabling comprehensive management of the entire IT infrastructure.Target Audience
UniFi is targeted at a wide range of users, including individuals, IT teams, and Managed Service Providers (MSPs). It is particularly suited for businesses and homes that require more advanced networking features than what consumer-grade products offer, but do not need the full complexity and expense of enterprise-level solutions.Key Features
Software-Defined Networking
UniFi uses software-defined networking, allowing administration to be done through the UniFi Network application, which can run on various platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, and within UniFi devices like the Cloud Keys and Dream Machines.UniFi Applications
The UniFi application suite includes several key components:- UniFi Network: Manages internet gateways, WiFi, and switching, providing real-time traffic dashboards and optimization tips.
- UniFi Protect: An AI-driven camera platform for local video storage with smart detection and customizable recording schedules.
- UniFi Access: A secure access control system featuring touch-screen readers and integrated video for entry and exit events.
- UniFi Talk: A plug-and-play VoIP system for small and medium businesses with advanced call routing and admin features.
Hardware Options
UniFi offers a variety of hardware solutions, including Cloud Gateways, Dream Machines (which combine routing, switching, and WiFi capabilities), and CloudKey devices for managing networks without a UniFi gateway. These devices vary in capacity and features, from compact models for small offices to rack-mounted solutions for large-scale deployments.Scalability and Management
UniFi servers can handle a large number of devices, making them suitable for small to medium-sized networks that can be scaled up. The system is accessible via a web browser or mobile apps, and it supports remote management and cloud orchestration through UniFi Site Manager.Security and Performance
UniFi devices include advanced security features such as IDS/IPS (Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems) and packet analysis with DPI (Deep Packet Inspection). They also offer high-performance capabilities, including support for WiFi 6 and extensive processing power in some models. Overall, UniFi provides a flexible, feature-rich, and scalable solution for managing and securing network infrastructure, making it a versatile choice for a broad range of users. Ubiquiti UniFi - User Interface and Experience
User Interface Overview
The user interface of Ubiquiti UniFi, particularly in the context of their networking tools and the Identity Enterprise Manager, is designed to be sleek, modern, and highly intuitive.New Look and Feel
The interface has undergone a significant overhaul to simplify workspace management. It aligns perfectly with UniFi OS and other UniFi applications, providing a clear and centralized view of all features. This new design makes it easier for users to access and manage various aspects of their network from a single location.Streamlined Management
User management has been centralized under the “Organization” section, allowing users to manage all their users in one place and assign resources without needing to switch between different pages. This streamlining extends to site management as well, where users can view the services enabled for each site by simply clicking on “Services”.Door Access Management
Door access control has been simplified by transferring most processes to the UniFi Access application. This centralizes the management of door access devices, policies, and visitors, while user, group, and permission settings related to door access remain within the Identity Enterprise Manager.Security Features
Security management has been consolidated into the “Security > Identity Firewall” page, combining Security Policy, Network Zone, and Behavior Rule features. This provides a comprehensive overview of the entire workspace security configuration, making it easier to manage and monitor security settings.System Log
The system log display has been revamped to make it easier to monitor critical issues, admin and user activities, and other events within the UniFi Identity Enterprise system. This improved log helps users quickly identify and troubleshoot issues.Ease of Use
Setting up and managing a UniFi network is generally straightforward. The process involves plugging in the devices, wiring them as desired, and using the UniFi app to detect and configure the network. The app guides users through setting up a username and password, and then all UniFi equipment is automatically recognized and integrated into the system. This setup process is described as user-friendly and similar to an Apple-esque experience in terms of simplicity and ease of use.User Experience
The overall user experience is enhanced by the intuitive UniFi Network software interface. Users can centrally manage multiple UniFi devices and monitor network performance in real-time, gaining insights into traffic, bandwidth usage, and device health. The compact and versatile design of devices like the Cloud Gateway Ultra also contributes to a seamless user experience, as it fits easily into any environment and provides real-time information through its integrated display.Conclusion
In summary, the Ubiquiti UniFi user interface is designed to be intuitive, centralized, and easy to use, making network management simpler and more efficient for users. Ubiquiti UniFi - Key Features and Functionality
The Ubiquiti UniFi Ecosystem
The Ubiquiti UniFi ecosystem, particularly in its networking tools and AI-driven products, offers several key features and functionalities that enhance network management, security, and surveillance. Here are the main features and how they work:UniFi Network Application
The UniFi Network application is a core component of the UniFi ecosystem. It combines internet gateways with scalable WiFi and switching capabilities. This application provides:- Real-time Traffic Dashboards: Allows users to monitor network traffic in real-time.
- Visual Topology Maps: Displays the network layout, making it easier to manage and troubleshoot.
- Optimization Tips: Offers suggestions to improve network performance.
UniFi Protect and AI Key
UniFi Protect is an AI-driven camera platform that integrates with the AI Key for advanced surveillance features.AI Key Features
The AI Key is an edge AI appliance that enhances the UniFi Protect system with several advanced features:- AI Search: Enables users to search for footage using natural language queries, such as “person in a blue shirt” or “vehicle in a restricted area.” This simplifies surveillance review and event detection.
- AI Summaries: Provides detailed context descriptions of video clips, including actions and settings, helping to highlight key video events quickly.
- License Plate Recognition (LPR): Detects and logs vehicle license plates in real-time, useful for monitoring gated communities, parking lots, and vehicle access points.
- Facial Recognition: Detects and enhances facial details, even in low-light or grainy footage, making it suitable for high-security applications.
- Speech-to-Text: Transcribes audio from supported cameras, providing detailed conversation logs useful for customer service reviews and incident investigations.
- Customizable Alarms: Allows event-based notifications via Slack, webhooks, or UniFi Protect, enabling immediate alerts for security teams.
Integration with UniFi Protect
The AI Key integrates seamlessly with the UniFi Protect system:- It connects via PoE and is adopted through the UniFi Protect controller.
- Users can configure advanced detection settings for supported cameras and manage the AI Key through the same interface used for cameras.
UniFi OS Consoles
These consoles run various UniFi applications and serve different roles in the ecosystem:- Cloud Key Gen2 and Gen2 : These are dedicated appliances that run UniFi software. The Gen2 model includes a 2.5” hard drive bay for video storage and supports all UniFi applications, including Network, Protect, Access, Talk, and UID.
- UniFi Dream Machine (UDM): An all-in-one device that acts as a router, switch, and access point, running UniFi Network and UID applications.
- UniFi Dream Machine Pro (UDM-Pro): A rackmount version with more advanced features, including an 8-port switch and support for UniFi Network, Protect, and UID applications.
Additional Applications
Other UniFi applications include:- UniFi Access: A secure and intuitive access control system featuring touch-screen readers, integrated video for entry and exit events, and flexible mobile credentials.
- UniFi Talk: A plug-and-play VoIP system for small and medium businesses, offering advanced call routing and admin features.
Benefits of AI Integration
The integration of AI in these products offers several benefits:- Enhanced Surveillance: AI-driven features like facial recognition, LPR, and AI search significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of surveillance systems.
- Real-time Alerts: Customizable alarms ensure that security teams receive immediate notifications for actionable responses.
- Privacy and Speed: The AI Key processes data locally, ensuring privacy and faster processing times compared to cloud-based solutions.
Ubiquiti UniFi - Performance and Accuracy
Performance and Accuracy Evaluation of Ubiquiti UniFi
When evaluating the performance and accuracy of Ubiquiti UniFi in the networking tools category, several key aspects come into play.
Channel Optimization and Interference Management
UniFi systems offer robust tools for optimizing WiFi performance, particularly in managing channel interference. The RF Environment tool within the UniFi Network Application allows users to scan and analyze channels in both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz spectrums, identifying congested channels and enabling the selection of the least used spectrum. This feature helps in minimizing interference and ensuring optimal channel usage.
Channel Width and Configuration
Users can configure channel widths to optimize performance. For instance, setting the 2.4 GHz radio to 20 MHz and the 5 GHz radio to 40 MHz is recommended for balanced performance and minimal interference. However, users can adjust these settings globally or individually for more granular control, with options to set channel widths up to 40 MHz for 2.4 GHz and up to 160 MHz for 5 GHz, though wider channels increase the risk of interference.
Transmission Power and Coverage
Adjusting the Transmission (TX) Power setting is crucial for optimizing coverage. Increasing TX Power can improve signal strength in weak areas but may introduce more interference, especially in high-density environments with multiple APs. Reducing TX Power for the 2.4 GHz band, which propagates further due to its longer wavelength, can help balance signal strength across both bands and ensure clients connect to the higher performing radio.
Signal Strength and Roaming
UniFi allows for the optimization of roaming by ensuring clients are connected to the AP with the strongest signal. By enabling Minimum RSSI (Receive Signal Strength Indicators) and adjusting the threshold, users can ensure clients maintain a strong connection. This feature is particularly useful in ensuring seamless handovers between APs.
Advanced Settings and Maintenance
For optimal performance, it is recommended to keep all UniFi APs and clients updated with the latest software and drivers. Ensuring APs are placed in open areas with minimal obstructions and conducting regular WiFi site surveys can also enhance overall network performance. Additionally, minimizing the use of wireless meshing, which can reduce throughput, is advised unless necessary.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
While UniFi offers advanced features for network optimization, there are some limitations. For example, the nightly channel optimization, which automatically scans and adjusts channels, may not always be optimal as it is based on the quietest time for RF interference. Additionally, the use of wider channels, while potentially increasing speed, increases the risk of interference. In high-density environments, managing TX Power and channel usage carefully is essential to avoid performance degradation.
Hardware and Software Updates
Ubiquiti has been actively releasing new hardware and software updates, such as the UniFi OS 4.0 and UniFi Network 8.6, which bring significant improvements in management and performance. However, some older models like the USG and USG-Pro have been phased out, and users are advised to upgrade to newer models like the UXG or Cloud Gateways for better performance and feature support.
Conclusion
In summary, Ubiquiti UniFi offers a range of tools and features that enhance WiFi performance and accuracy, but these come with the need for careful configuration and management to avoid potential pitfalls like interference and signal degradation. Regular updates and proper placement of APs are also crucial for maintaining optimal network performance.
Ubiquiti UniFi - Pricing and Plans
Ubiquiti UniFi Product Line Overview
The Ubiquiti UniFi product line offers a variety of pricing structures and plans, each with distinct features to cater to different needs and scales of operation.
Hardware Devices and Their Prices
- Cloud Gateway Ultra (UCG-Ultra): This compact cloud gateway supports up to 30 UniFi devices and 300 clients, with 1 Gbps IPS routing and multi-WAN load balancing, priced at $129.00.
- UniFi Express (UX): A compact cloud gateway and WiFi 6 AP, priced at $149.00.
- Cloud Gateway Max (UCG-Max-NS): Supports up to 30 UniFi devices and 300 clients, with 1.5 Gbps IPS routing and selectable NVR storage, starting from $199.00.
- Dream Router (UDR): A desktop UniFi cloud gateway with integrated WiFi 6 and PoE switching, priced at $199.00.
- Dream Machine Pro (UDM-Pro): A 10G cloud gateway supporting 100 UniFi devices and 1,000 clients, with 3.5 Gbps IPS routing, priced at $379.00.
- Dream Machine Special Edition (UDM-SE): Similar to the UDM-Pro but with built-in PoE switching, priced at $499.00.
- Dream Machine Pro Max (UDM-Pro-Max): Supports up to 200 UniFi devices and 2,000 clients, with 5 Gbps IPS routing and redundant NVR storage, priced at $599.00.
- Enterprise Fortress Gateway (EFG): A high-end option supporting up to 500 UniFi devices and 5,000 clients, with 12.5 Gbps IPS routing, priced at $1,999.00.
Cloud Hosting Plans
- Official UniFi Cloud Hosting: This service allows for the management of up to 1,000 UniFi Network devices. It is available as a subscription starting from $29.00 per month. This plan includes centralized management with the Site Manager at unifi.ui.com and can be paired with UXG series gateways for a comprehensive UniFi networking solution.
Free Options
- UniFi Controller Software: The UniFi Controller software itself is free to download and install on various platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. You can host it on existing hardware or use free cloud service tiers, although these often come with significant limitations in terms of computing resources, bandwidth, and data storage.
- UniHosted Free UniFi Cloud Controller: UniHosted offers a free UniFi Cloud Controller for home users, supporting up to 5 devices. This service includes hassle-free management, instant online access, and support via email and chat.
Key Features by Plan
- Hardware Devices: Each device comes with specific features such as the number of supported devices, IPS routing speeds, and additional functionalities like integrated WiFi, PoE switching, and NVR storage.
- Cloud Hosting: The official UniFi Cloud Hosting provides centralized management, scalability up to 1,000 devices, and integration with other UniFi products.
- Free Hosting: Self-hosting on existing hardware or using free cloud services like UniHosted allows for basic network management but may lack the scalability and reliability of paid plans.
Conclusion
In summary, Ubiquiti UniFi offers a range of hardware devices and cloud hosting plans to suit different scales and needs, along with free options for those looking to manage smaller networks without additional costs.
Ubiquiti UniFi - Integration and Compatibility
Integration with Home Assistant
UniFi Network can be integrated with Home Assistant, a popular home automation platform. This integration supports all UniFi OS Consoles and self-hosted versions of UniFi Network. To set it up, you need to create a local user on your UniFi OS Console with full read/write access, as Ubiquiti SSO Cloud Users are not supported.
The integration allows for various functionalities such as:
- Power cycling PoE ports
- Restarting UniFi devices
- Regenerating WLAN passwords
- Controlling network access for clients
- Managing port forwarding, traffic, and policy-based routing rules
- Monitoring bandwidth, uptime, and device temperatures
- Detecting device presence
Compatibility with UniFi Devices
UniFi Network is compatible with a wide range of UniFi devices, but there are some exceptions. For instance, UniFi Cloud Gateways like the UDM, UDM Pro, UDM SE, UDR, UDW, and UCG Ultra cannot be managed externally and thus do not work with hosted solutions like HostiFi.
However, other UniFi devices such as access points, switches, and network-attached storage (NAS) solutions are fully supported. Accessories like the UBB, UBB-XG, U-LTE, and USP-PDU-Pro also work seamlessly with the UniFi Network application.
Storage Compatibility
For devices that require storage, such as UniFi Network Video Recorders (UNVR) and CloudKey devices, specific storage requirements must be met. For example, the UNVR-Pro requires a 3.5″ HDD with at least 1TB capacity and 7200RPM read/write speeds. CloudKey devices come with an included SSD, and the UCG-Max uses an NVMe SSD with specific performance limitations.
Integration with Other UniFi Applications
The UniFi application suite includes several other applications that integrate well with the UniFi Network:
- UniFi Protect: An AI-driven camera platform for video surveillance.
- UniFi Access: A secure access control system.
- UniFi Talk: A VoIP system for small and medium businesses.
- UniFi Connect: An Enterprise of Things platform for various IoT devices.
These applications can run on UniFi Cloud Gateways, providing a centralized management solution for all your IT needs.
Platform Support
UniFi Network can be managed through various platforms, including local management via the UniFi OS Console and remote management using the UniFi Site Manager. The UniFi Site Manager offers a hybrid cloud solution, allowing for secure remote management while keeping data local and secure.
In summary, the UniFi Network integrates well with Home Assistant and supports a wide range of UniFi devices, while also being compatible with specific storage solutions and other UniFi applications. However, certain devices like the UDM series are not compatible with external management solutions.
Ubiquiti UniFi - Customer Support and Resources
Ubiquiti UniFi Customer Support Overview
Ubiquiti UniFi offers a comprehensive array of customer support options and additional resources to ensure users can effectively manage and troubleshoot their networking setups.Priority Support
UniFi provides 24/7 priority phone support, where users can get urgent coverage from world-class network engineers. This service includes a named support contact for consistent and reliable assistance.Technical Support and Resources
Help Center
- Users can access technical support through the Ubiquiti Help Center, which includes guides, articles, and troubleshooting tips categorized by product and issue type.
- The Help Center also features trending articles and a section for frequently asked questions, making it easier to find common solutions.
- For more advanced discussions, the UI Community is available, where Ubiquiti employees and other users can provide insights and support.
Device Replacement and RMA
If a device needs to be replaced, UniFi offers a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) service. Users can submit and track the status of their device replacement through the RMA service.UniFi Site Manager and Cloud Solutions
UniFi Site Manager provides a license-free hybrid cloud solution for remote management, allowing users to manage multiple sites, assign permissions, and monitor system activity centrally. This includes secure multi-factor authentication, automated backups and updates, as well as email and mobile push notifications.Additional Hosting Options
Users have several hosting options for their UniFi Network, including running it on UniFi Cloud Gateways, CloudKey devices, or even self-hosted on a third-party device. Each option is optimized for different use cases, such as large-scale deployments or smaller setups.UniFi Consoles and Devices
UniFi offers various consoles like UniFi Network Video Recorders (UNVR) for video surveillance, CloudKey devices for managing networking devices without a UniFi Gateway, and UniFi Network-Attached Storage (UNAS) for large-scale file storage and backup. These devices are designed to integrate seamlessly with the UniFi ecosystem.User Guides and Documentation
Detailed user guides, such as the UniFi AP/AP-LR User Guide, are available to help users set up and manage their UniFi devices. These guides cover everything from initial setup to advanced configuration options.Community Support
The UI Community is a valuable resource where users can engage with Ubiquiti employees and other users to discuss pre-sales questions, configuration issues, and advanced product discussions.Conclusion
By leveraging these support options and resources, users can ensure they get the most out of their UniFi networking solutions while having the support they need to resolve any issues that arise. Ubiquiti UniFi - Pros and Cons
Advantages of Ubiquiti UniFi
Ubiquiti’s UniFi networking solution offers several significant advantages that make it a popular choice for network management:User-Friendly Interface
UniFi is known for its easy and intuitive user interface. The dashboard and user interface are remarkably user-friendly, making it simpler for users to set up and manage their network compared to other enterprise-grade solutions. This includes one-click software installs and hardware pairing, streamlining the integration of new devices into the network.Comprehensive Hardware Range
UniFi provides a broad range of hardware solutions, including managed switches, WiFi 6 and 7 access points, surveillance cameras, and more. This extensive hardware portfolio allows users to build a comprehensive network that meets various needs, from small home setups to large business environments.Scalability and Flexibility
UniFi networks are highly scalable and flexible. Users can start with a single device and expand their network over time, choosing the specific components they need without requiring a full UniFi stack. This flexibility makes it suitable for networks of all sizes.Network Management and Monitoring
The UniFi controller provides a single, network-wide control and information center. It allows for detailed monitoring of device connections, bandwidth usage, and data flow, helping users identify potential bottlenecks and troubleshoot issues efficiently. The system also offers clear visual icons and identifiers for devices, making management more straightforward.Cost-Effective
Compared to other enterprise-grade network solutions like Cisco or HP, UniFi offers a more cost-effective option without compromising on capability and user-friendliness. There are no licenses or upgrade costs, making it an attractive choice for businesses looking to manage their network efficiently.Disadvantages of Ubiquiti UniFi
While UniFi has many advantages, there are also some notable disadvantages to consider:Offline Setup Challenges
Setting up a purely offline UniFi network can be complicated. Modern UniFi devices require registration with a UniFi account during initialization, and managing updates without online access can be difficult. This may not be ideal for users who prefer or need to keep their network completely offline.Limited Third-Party Camera Compatibility
UniFi’s surveillance system does not support third-party cameras via ONVIF protocols, which can be a significant limitation. Additionally, UniFi cameras are hard-locked to the UniFi ecosystem and cannot be used with other surveillance platforms, potentially leading to issues with future compatibility and support.Advanced Configuration Limitations
While the UniFi interface is user-friendly, it lacks some advanced network settings that might be necessary for more complex network configurations. This can be a limitation for users who require more detailed control over their network settings.Bugs and Issues
Like any software, the UniFi Network application can have its share of bugs and issues. While these are generally manageable, they can still cause inconvenience and require troubleshooting. In summary, UniFi offers a user-friendly, scalable, and cost-effective network management solution with a wide range of hardware options. However, it has limitations such as challenges with offline setup, limited third-party camera compatibility, and some advanced configuration restrictions. Ubiquiti UniFi - Comparison with Competitors
Comparison of Ubiquiti UniFi Cloud Gateways with AI-Driven Networking Tools
Centralized Management and Cloud Integration
Ubiquiti UniFi Cloud Gateways stand out for their centralized cloud-based management. They allow users to manage all UniFi devices from a single interface, providing real-time performance monitoring and advanced security features. This cloud-based management is a significant advantage, enabling remote monitoring and control of the network from anywhere.Multi-WAN and Security Features
The UniFi Cloud Gateways, such as the UniFi Cloud Gateway Ultra, offer multi-WAN load balancing, IDS/IPS, and firewall capabilities, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity and enhanced security. These features are particularly beneficial for businesses that require reliable and secure network operations.Comparison with Juniper Networks AI-Native Platform
Juniper Networks’ AI-native platform, which includes the Mist Marvis Virtual Network Assistant (VNA), also offers unified management across campus, branch, and data center networks. However, Juniper’s platform is more focused on using AI to ensure every connection is reliable, measurable, and secure, with benefits like reduced trouble tickets and operational expenses. While both platforms offer advanced management, Juniper’s is more AI-centric in its approach to network reliability and security.HPE Aruba Networking Central
HPE Aruba’s Networking Central, integrated with OpsRamp technology, provides expanded observability into network devices such as wireless access points, switches, firewalls, and routers. This platform offers more context and insights but is more locally managed compared to the cloud-based approach of UniFi Cloud Gateways. HPE Aruba’s solution is strong in providing a unified view of network devices but may lack the remote cloud management flexibility of UniFi.Nile AI Services Platform
Nile’s AI Services Platform focuses on automating network design, configuration, and management. It includes AI-based network design and deployment, as well as AI-powered monitoring and operations. While Nile’s platform is innovative in automating network processes, it does not offer the same level of integrated security and multi-WAN capabilities as the UniFi Cloud Gateways.AI-Powered Security Tools
Tools like Darktrace and Trellix, which are AI-powered cybersecurity platforms, offer advanced threat detection and response capabilities. These tools are more specialized in cybersecurity rather than overall network management and do not provide the same level of centralized network control and multi-WAN features as the UniFi Cloud Gateways.Conclusion
Ubiquiti UniFi Cloud Gateways are unique in their combination of centralized cloud management, multi-WAN support, and advanced security features. While other platforms like Juniper Networks, HPE Aruba, and Nile offer strong AI-driven networking solutions, they often focus on different aspects such as reliability, observability, or automation. For users seeking a balanced solution with strong cloud management and security, the UniFi Cloud Gateways are a compelling choice. However, for those needing more specialized AI-driven security or automation, alternatives like Darktrace or Nile might be more suitable. Ubiquiti UniFi - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Ubiquiti UniFi
Which UniFi Consoles Support the Access Application?
The UniFi Access application is supported by several UniFi consoles, including:
- Dream Machine Pro (UDM-Pro)
- Dream Machine Special Edition (UDM-SE)
- Dream Machine Pro Max (UDM-Pro-Max)
- Dream Wall (UDW)
- Network Video Recorder (UNVR)
- Network Video Recorder Pro (UNVR-Pro)
- CloudKey (UCK-G2-PLUS)
- Cloud Gateway Max (UCG-Max)
- Dream Router (UDR), though it does not support UniFi Identity Enterprise Door Access
- Enterprise Network Video Recorder (ENVR).
Can I Use the Same UA Card Across Different UniFi Consoles?
No, you cannot use the same UA Card to unlock locations deployed on different UniFi consoles. Each UA Card is assigned to a specific UniFi Console and stores a set of encrypted keys and tokens unique to that console. This means the card will only work with the locations associated with the console it was assigned to.
What Types of Locks Are Supported by UniFi Access?
UniFi Access supports electric strikes, electric bolts, and magnetic locks with dry and powered (12V, up to 1A) relays. It is recommended to use UniFi’s own Magnetic Lock and Electric Lock as they are vetted for quality and performance. Third-party locks must support 12V powered relays or use a dry relay with an external power supply.
Can I Connect Access Readers Directly to a PoE Switch?
No, UniFi Access Readers must be directly connected to UniFi Access Control Hubs. This connection uses proprietary communication to ensure security and maintain functionality even during console outages or network disruptions.
Does UniFi Access Have Emergency-Specific Functionality?
Yes, UniFi Access supports both manual and hard-wired emergency mode activation, including Lockdown and Evacuation modes. These modes can be activated through the Access web-based application or mobile apps, and can be configured to automatically activate when a fire signal is received from a connected fire panel.
Will UniFi Access Remain Operational During a Power Outage?
Yes, UniFi Access can remain operational during a power outage if a battery-back power supply, such as a Switch Mission Critical or a UPS, is used. Access rights are synchronized with the Access Control Hub, so door access will remain even if the UniFi Console goes down. Locks can also be manually configured as fail-safe or fail-secure during a power outage.
What to Do If Access Devices Are Not Found by the Access Application?
If your UniFi Access devices are connected but not detected by the Access application, ensure you are the UniFi Console Owner or Super Admin. Check that the devices are installed correctly, connected properly, and powered on. Ensure the status LED on your Access devices is steady white and that the devices are on the same physical network as the UniFi Console. If issues persist, reset the devices by pressing and holding the RESET button until the LED blinks white.
How Do I Set Up My UniFi Cloud Gateway?
To set up your UniFi Cloud Gateway, connect the WAN port to the internet and power on the device. Use the UniFi Network app or a browser to access the setup page (typically http://192.168.1.1). Sign in to your UI Account or create a new one, and follow the prompts to name your gateway and configure your network settings. The device will automatically update to the latest firmware if necessary.
What Are the Storage Limits for Access System Logs in UniFi OS?
In UniFi OS 4.0, Access system logs are stored on an internal SSD with 3.5 GB of space. When full, the oldest logs are deleted automatically. In UniFi OS 4.1 and later, logs are migrated to external storage if available, with only the most recent three months of logs remaining on internal storage. If external storage is full, logs will continue to be stored within the 3.5 GB limit of the internal storage.
Can I Run UniFi Applications on Other Devices Besides Cloud Gateways?
Yes, while Cloud Gateways are the recommended solution, you can also run UniFi applications on a self-hosted network server using a third-party device like a personal computer. However, this setup may be more challenging to optimize for performance and user experience compared to using a Cloud Gateway.
How Do I Adopt Devices into My UniFi Network?
To adopt devices, ensure you are the UniFi Console Owner or Super Admin. Connect the devices to the network, and use the UniFi Network application to manage and adopt them. The devices must be on the same physical network as the UniFi Console. Follow the adoption steps within the application to link the devices to your UniFi Application.