F5F Stay Refreshed Power Users Networks Determine if you require a Security Gateway based on your security needs.

Determine if you require a Security Gateway based on your security needs.

Determine if you require a Security Gateway based on your security needs.

S
SnifePvP
Posting Freak
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872
04-17-2023, 06:43 AM
#1
I'm enhancing my home network setup. I recently bought a Unifi AC Pro access point to improve Wi-Fi coverage and speed. It received positive feedback from me. On average, I experience about 10db stronger signal across my 1/4 acre property, with both 5GHz and 2.4GHz bands working well everywhere. The signal remains solid throughout the house, even when guests visit. My ISP modem struggled under heavy device usage, so I upgraded to a Unifi Switch 8-60W to manage traffic and take over routing. This weekend I plan to install them. My main concern is whether moving the modem/router to a bridge would boost performance, and if so, do I need a security gateway? As a beginner in networking, I’m happy to explain everything. With only 40Mb internet, I’m unsure if switching to bridge mode would make a difference. Still, the QoS and security features of a gateway seem valuable. I appreciate the tech tools, so even if it’s not essential, I’d still enjoy experimenting with them. Besides site-to-site VPN and network segmentation, I don’t see much purpose in a gateway. Thanks for your thoughts!
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S
SnifePvP
04-17-2023, 06:43 AM #1

I'm enhancing my home network setup. I recently bought a Unifi AC Pro access point to improve Wi-Fi coverage and speed. It received positive feedback from me. On average, I experience about 10db stronger signal across my 1/4 acre property, with both 5GHz and 2.4GHz bands working well everywhere. The signal remains solid throughout the house, even when guests visit. My ISP modem struggled under heavy device usage, so I upgraded to a Unifi Switch 8-60W to manage traffic and take over routing. This weekend I plan to install them. My main concern is whether moving the modem/router to a bridge would boost performance, and if so, do I need a security gateway? As a beginner in networking, I’m happy to explain everything. With only 40Mb internet, I’m unsure if switching to bridge mode would make a difference. Still, the QoS and security features of a gateway seem valuable. I appreciate the tech tools, so even if it’s not essential, I’d still enjoy experimenting with them. Besides site-to-site VPN and network segmentation, I don’t see much purpose in a gateway. Thanks for your thoughts!

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M
MWRH2002
Junior Member
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39
05-03-2023, 11:16 AM
#2
Yes, if your ISP device is a combined unit (modem, router, wireless AP, etc.) and you set it to bridged mode, you'll need a separate router for all your other network gear. Bridged mode turns off routing capabilities. If you're referring to a security gateway like an Ubiquiti USG, it depends on your requirements. You don't have to use one; it offers some extra UniFi Controller features that many home users don't need. It lets you perform bandwidth tests and monitor your network more effectively within the Controller. To get a dedicated router, you can either switch your ISP device to bridge mode or disable its features. You can choose a USG for added functionality or an affordable EdgeRouter like ER-X or ER-X-SFP. This compact device is powerful and packed with features, but it works independently of the UniFi Controller—you still manage your UAP and USW devices through the Controller as usual.
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M
MWRH2002
05-03-2023, 11:16 AM #2

Yes, if your ISP device is a combined unit (modem, router, wireless AP, etc.) and you set it to bridged mode, you'll need a separate router for all your other network gear. Bridged mode turns off routing capabilities. If you're referring to a security gateway like an Ubiquiti USG, it depends on your requirements. You don't have to use one; it offers some extra UniFi Controller features that many home users don't need. It lets you perform bandwidth tests and monitor your network more effectively within the Controller. To get a dedicated router, you can either switch your ISP device to bridge mode or disable its features. You can choose a USG for added functionality or an affordable EdgeRouter like ER-X or ER-X-SFP. This compact device is powerful and packed with features, but it works independently of the UniFi Controller—you still manage your UAP and USW devices through the Controller as usual.

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