F5F Stay Refreshed Power Users Networks Looking for a different way to configure your network? There are several options beyond Ubiquiti solutions.

Looking for a different way to configure your network? There are several options beyond Ubiquiti solutions.

Looking for a different way to configure your network? There are several options beyond Ubiquiti solutions.

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Oxygen__
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10-04-2024, 10:30 PM
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Although I see UI's recent approach to the Unifi Video as somewhat limited, they provided more clarity than some believe. When Unifi Protect launched, I realized it was evident that Unifi Video would offer only minimal enhancements. Their focus seemed to be maintaining support for a small group of cameras rather than expanding features. The only issue with the Unifi Video EOL appears to be prematurely shutting down the cloud portal—this doesn’t imply those systems will cease functioning. UI’s design philosophy emphasizes resilience; if cloud services disappear, the core functionality remains intact. For your needs, Unifi truly offers a comprehensive solution. The 1.7.3 firmware for UDMP is reportedly strong (though I lack a UDMP). Other alternatives exist, though they tend to be pricier and come from well-known networking firms:

- **Networking:** Aruba InstantOn – Provides essential wireless and switching capabilities without a firewall. Offers basic DPI only for wireless clients via APs. The main drawback is full dependence on Aruba’s cloud, which is free but leaves you reliant on their service. Switches can run in cloud or local mode; the latter mimics regular Aruba devices with excellent enterprise performance.
- **Ruckus Unleashed:** Similar to InstantOn but uses a controller on one AP, backed by another. DPI capability is improved thanks to Ruckus’s experience, though it still operates solely on APs. Switches function in cloud or local mode, with the latter closely mirroring Aruba’s hardware.
- **Untangle Firewall:** Ideal for those needing IDS/IPS, DPI, and advanced security without heavy management. Available as a home license for $50/year, matching enterprise pricing. Useful demos are available online.

For surveillance, Synology Surveillance Station works on most Synology NAS models, though some require per-camera licenses. Helpful resources include the provided links.

As for my own perspective, I’m leaning toward Ruckus equipment and Untangle solutions, but I’m also exploring open-source options like ZoneMinder—mainly because of my long-term experience with it.
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O
Oxygen__
10-04-2024, 10:30 PM #1

Although I see UI's recent approach to the Unifi Video as somewhat limited, they provided more clarity than some believe. When Unifi Protect launched, I realized it was evident that Unifi Video would offer only minimal enhancements. Their focus seemed to be maintaining support for a small group of cameras rather than expanding features. The only issue with the Unifi Video EOL appears to be prematurely shutting down the cloud portal—this doesn’t imply those systems will cease functioning. UI’s design philosophy emphasizes resilience; if cloud services disappear, the core functionality remains intact. For your needs, Unifi truly offers a comprehensive solution. The 1.7.3 firmware for UDMP is reportedly strong (though I lack a UDMP). Other alternatives exist, though they tend to be pricier and come from well-known networking firms:

- **Networking:** Aruba InstantOn – Provides essential wireless and switching capabilities without a firewall. Offers basic DPI only for wireless clients via APs. The main drawback is full dependence on Aruba’s cloud, which is free but leaves you reliant on their service. Switches can run in cloud or local mode; the latter mimics regular Aruba devices with excellent enterprise performance.
- **Ruckus Unleashed:** Similar to InstantOn but uses a controller on one AP, backed by another. DPI capability is improved thanks to Ruckus’s experience, though it still operates solely on APs. Switches function in cloud or local mode, with the latter closely mirroring Aruba’s hardware.
- **Untangle Firewall:** Ideal for those needing IDS/IPS, DPI, and advanced security without heavy management. Available as a home license for $50/year, matching enterprise pricing. Useful demos are available online.

For surveillance, Synology Surveillance Station works on most Synology NAS models, though some require per-camera licenses. Helpful resources include the provided links.

As for my own perspective, I’m leaning toward Ruckus equipment and Untangle solutions, but I’m also exploring open-source options like ZoneMinder—mainly because of my long-term experience with it.

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