FAQ for wifi router options
FAQ for wifi router options
You're looking for the best setup for your thick-walled home using an ASUS E12 and a 25GbE plan. Consider pairing it with Ubiquiti Dream Machine and adding an AP or another ASUS router. Since you have Ethernet inside but not outside, you'll need to extend connectivity to the garden or garage.
A simple sketch would help, highlighting key distances. Here are the important distances:
You won't be able to apply certain features, but it should function elsewhere. I could utilize it in another context.
As an independent router, yes. The main goal of a UDM is to control several UniFi APs/switches via one interface. Keep in mind that the UniFi Controller can't handle hardware from Ubiquiti's UISP line. A UniFi configuration doesn’t guarantee magical WiFi through thick walls—it has its own limitations like any other WiFi device. Some brands such as Ruckus offer better performance, but that involves higher costs; you're upgrading to enterprise-level equipment. My take on setting up WiFi in tough building environments is about making the most of what you have. Ethernet connections cut down on WiFi reliance (less interference), but let you place APs where needed. Rather than forcing maximum power from one AP through many walls, add more APs and lower the antenna output to just cover the necessary area. This improves coverage and reduces dependence on a weak signal passing through several barriers. A system like UniFi simplifies this process. It’s not the only option available.
Consider purchasing multiple affordable ASUS routers to build a mesh network, or upgrade all your equipment to a managed AP setup.
Reject this approach. A wireless backhaul is essential for optimal performance. Even with UniFi, you require a wireless connection between the APs to ensure strong coverage. While I have a setup using UniFi from AP to AP, it’s limited by my apartment walls and poor signal quality. The APs are close but weakened through obstacles, resulting in only marginal coverage. To improve reliability, connect the APs directly with a wire. This minimizes interference and boosts stability.
UDM pro is preferable to wired APs whenever possible, especially if you must use WiFi-to-WiFi mode. Deploy additional APs with reduced power settings for better range. Fine-tune the system—UniFi isn’t fully automatic. I adjusted my UniFi configurations in my router (using pfSense) to streamline handoffs between APs. However, a new neighbor’s upgrade to a 5GHz router increased interference, forcing further adjustments despite no channel conflict.
In short, consolidate all UniFi APs or eliminate them entirely. Hardwiring is necessary. Be prepared to tweak and optimize until the network functions smoothly.
Yes, it's possible to use the ASUS E12 in your configuration with Unifi. UDM isn't strictly necessary unless you're dealing with advanced settings. Let me know if you need more details!
You’re open to it, but expect some hiccups. Mesh WiFi systems succeed because the access points are “intelligent” and can talk to each other. If a device has a weak signal but still meets the minimum threshold, the AP will ignore it and forward it to another AP. Without this feature, devices stay stuck near an AP they barely reach, leading to poor performance. This is why mesh networks outperform just multiple APs sharing the same network name and password. That approach works but isn’t as efficient. If budget matters, yes, you can attempt it. You don’t need a dedicated UDM device, but you’ll need a controller. I use their software on a Linux VM in my lab, which also runs on Windows if needed. It should stay active only when you’re making changes, otherwise it’s best left idle. The layout diagram you mentioned looks like what you’d get with this setup.