Completed almost a full Ubiquity UniFi setup and it's impressive!
Completed almost a full Ubiquity UniFi setup and it's impressive!
I've been managing a patchwork network for years. I've crafted my own routers from old desktops and mini PCs using PF-Sense, installed OPNSense on a Linksys router, etc. Since relying on outdated or modified hardware, I opted for fresh components and was pleased with the result. I purchased an Ubiquity Dream Machine Pro along with a few U6+ APs. Currently, I'm using an older HP ProCurve 24-port switch to manage most connections, but I recently acquired Switch Flex Minis for areas with many devices and intend to buy a ProMax 24 switch. The setup was straightforward, though I'm still fine-tuning and rewiring parts of my network cabinet. Overall, I'm very satisfied with the outcome. I just need to locate a rack mount for my 2.5GB switch, Mac Mini, and then it'll be over for now.
I'm weighing my options carefully. On one side, I really want to move up from my current setup to something more reliable and powerful—especially with POE cameras and multiple APs. The ASUS router I just installed supports 2.5 Gbps LAN and has made transferring files between devices in my home much smoother. Switching from a 1 Gbps network would have been risky before, especially for large file transfers. With around six existing ports and plans to add more for upstairs bedrooms and cameras (about 17 total), a switch with 24 ports at 2.5 Gbps would cost around $800. Adding the Dream Machine, APs, and cameras brings the overall investment close to $4,000. There are also some concerns about the company’s past decisions—discontinuing cameras and changing terms of service could be risky. On the flip side, my current Wi-Fi cameras keep dropping frequently, making them unreliable. I worry about security too; if thieves break in before my cameras can alert me, it could be disastrous. Notifications work through HomeKit, but the video feed is slow and lower quality than what I expect now. I need something that’s stable, fast, and secure. I just need someone to convince me otherwise.
Ubiquity is genuinely simple... with just a few minor details, such as configuring VLANs and port forwarding, but after you grasp their unique approaches, it becomes a breeze.
I managed it. I received a DMSE and a U7 Pro, plus a couple of cameras. It was just a bit under the credit card rewards, so it shouldn’t be too tough to afford. I’m excited about adding another AP for 6 GHz in my upstairs bedrooms. lol I haven’t even ordered it yet—it’s coming out Wednesday!
If it assists, Ubiquiti faced significant backlash for stopping the Self Hosted capable UniFi Video system and pushing users toward UniFi Protect. This change necessitated using Ubiquiti OS appliances, which drew criticism due to missing local login support. Initially, some x86 self-install versions leaked, but Ubiquiti later blocked those options. Regarding hardware, a colleague still operates old UVC-G2 cameras in the latest UniFi Protect version, managing them effectively. Personally, I own numerous UAP-AC-Pro APs (Gen2 models) that remain functional, receiving regular updates and supporting WPA3. Their cameras are priced higher but perform adequately. The APs offer good value considering their history. Switches are average, though operational. Routers are improving, albeit with some recent configuration quirks on the backplane and CPU settings.
I received a G5 Bullet (wired) and two G4 Instant cameras (WiFi model for testing). Both are "2k" offering higher resolution than standard 1080p devices. The quick response when away from home is impressive. The Protect app could benefit from better refinement. I haven’t benchmarked against Synology, but I’m satisfied with the upgrade over Arlo, Logitech (HomeKit direct, Wi-Fi only), and generic Amazon items. The camera prices seem reasonable for 1080p and 2k resolutions, though the G5 Pro 4k model is about three times more expensive than the non-pro model. The issue that bothers me is the restricted DMSE functionality when viewing internal NVR stats—often I see only 16 to 20% capacity with just two 2k cameras. It appears sufficient for a small home, but a 4k camera might significantly increase those numbers. What are your thoughts on their switches? I’ve been considering the Enterprise model with 2.5 Gbps and POE+ on all ports; the price is quite steep ($800).
During the period when I deployed the Unifi solution, I was completely satisfied. It performed exceptionally well and the interface looks great. Being able to connect remotely to the router from work while my wife dealt with internet problems is really helpful—I can access everything, verify the situation, and figure out if it's an issue with us or her work VPN (which tends to be the case). I’m planning to upgrade my old HP switch to a ProMax 24 soon.
I find the unified UI appealing only because it locks you into one vendor and depends on their ongoing support. It’s also frustrating when you’re considering moving to another provider. In my experience, buying a nanoHD forced me to rely on their management app for full features, as it lacked essential elements of the standard web interface. This resulted in a cluttered UI with 80% unnecessary components, which isn’t ideal for everyday use. While suitable for large enterprises willing to accept vendor lock-in, it didn’t meet my needs as a home user focused on getting value for money. Switching to the Zyxel AP improved my WiFi stability and firmware reliability from the start, unlike Ubiquiti’s frequent bug fixes.