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I've just finalized the agreement to construct a new home within roughly six months. Since I have specific preferences, I've worked closely with the builder to handle the low-voltage wiring myself—speaker lines and networking tasks remain my responsibility. This project has been on my mind for some time, but because I'm not very experienced with networking, I'd welcome any advice on my basic setup.
My approach: I intend to house all network gear and servers in the utility room of the basement, where the main network connections will connect. I already own a Unifi UDM SE, which I plan to keep in the new home. However, my existing switch is a Gen1 24-port PoE unit lacking the ports and PoE features I need. Therefore, I intend to purchase a Unifi Switch Pro XG 48PoE as my primary switch.
I was hoping for the latest Enterprise 48 model—2.5G and more affordable—but it’s now discontinued. From there, I’ll install an SFP28 NIC into my current media server (just for extra capacity) and an SFP+ into my Unifi NVR. Eventually, I aim to expand with a separate shop about 30 yards away, running additional fiber there.
Inside the house, I wanted a straightforward setup using CAT6A cabling to each key location. The IT professional suggested doubling all wall terminations since it simplifies running multiple cables simultaneously. This means you’ll see many X2 connectors on walls. For TV setups, I plan two X4s—one mounted low and one high for a television.
Currently, I’m considering two APs: one in the living area near extra bedrooms, another in the master suite, plus one in the garage and another on the back deck. I’m still deciding on the exact models but feel the new Unifi AP XG would work well in both locations. The plan is to install a U7 Outdoor AP on the deck as well.
I know this setup might seem excessive for a home of this size, but the house exceeds what Unifi claims a single AP can cover. I’ve also mapped out six cameras and a doorbell, with the possibility of adding another camera in the garage later.
Any suggestions or insights would be greatly appreciated. I’m not an expert, so I did some research—using a triangle symbol for network drops and a circle with a triangle for ceiling-mounted drops seems to fit the bill.
The suggestion of two drops per room is solid advice. During my wiring project, I started with one drop in certain rooms and later needed to add more in the attic. I considered running a line to the garage for a camera backup, which turned out to be useful. Now I have three cameras in the garage.
Thanks for the update. It's reassuring to know my IT person isn't causing confusion. I was planning to set up a line for a camera in the garage because it matches the route needed for an exterior camera. Whether I install one there or not, I'd prefer to handle the work now when things are simpler.