Other options include Ubiquiti UniFi, pfSense, OpenWRT, and Cisco ASA.
Other options include Ubiquiti UniFi, pfSense, OpenWRT, and Cisco ASA.
I've been considering this for a while. Most discussions are outdated, but I'm using a full Unifi setup now—USG, Cloud Key, PoE switch, AP-AC-Pro units, etc. I'm thinking about upgrading since some components feel outdated. My idea is to get a Dream Machine Pro and refresh the APs, but I'm curious if there are alternatives similar in price to Ubiquiti for enterprise-level performance. Network specs: -1Gbps fiber, Ethernet throughout (Cat6). Budget around $1000. Items needed: Router, firewall, APs, switch(s) (if changing brands). Notes: I’ll stick with switches unless switching vendors. I’m not an expert, but I know enough to risk things. If you have any advice, I’d really appreciate it!
I really wouldn't bother—maybe change the USG to a UDM or USG Pro if you need something beyond a basic stateful firewall for gigabit. Swapping out the APs, gateway, and switches on a $1k budget will likely leave you in the same spot you are now. Also consider moving the controller to the UDM or onto its own VM. The CloudKeys were more of a gimmick than anything practical.
It was the primary factor that led me to consider the UDM-pro. It includes a controller, offers high throughput with stateful inspection, and supports running drives for cameras. It’s affordable enough to enable upgrading some APs as well. I’ve been satisfied with Ubuntu, but I wanted to verify there were other viable choices. Perhaps one day I’ll install a compatible box and run PF-Sense or IPFire. Thanks for your feedback!
Ubiquiti offers a distinctive solution in this market. Previously, users had to pay for yearly licenses or subscriptions to access their gear or controllers. In fact, Ubiquiti still permits local controller use, unlike many competitors who rely on cloud services and charge annually. Of course, there are some restrictions. Direct support from the company is limited, but community forums provide solid assistance. Switching brands often ties support to your subscription plan. For home users, annual fees seem unnecessary; it makes more sense for businesses needing frequent large-scale hardware upgrades. Regarding firewalls, USG, UDM-Pro, and EdgeRouter are powerful options, while a pfSense box offers tighter control and improved performance for CPU-heavy tasks. Ubiquiti has recently introduced PoE and non-PoE versions of the Switch Lite, plus WiFi 6 APs (WiFi 6e not yet available). If you use WiFi 6 adapters, expect a slight boost in speed to make better use of your high-speed internet.
I wouldn't use it because their software isn't good even for advanced users. PfSense isn't terrible but definitely not great from my perspective. I'm using it now and really dislike it, though I don't mind changing it unless something breaks. Would love to know what the OP needs and if the UBNT suite is falling short right now. Better allocate that $1,000 elsewhere.
pfSense and Mikrotik function seamlessly without notice. The GUI and tools depend on personal preference, but they’re straightforward and reliable every time. pfSense stands out as the top free router solution, while Mikrotik shines with its strong WiFi features—perfectly complementary.
Your recent interaction with CSS326 highlights some issues—credentials are lost until a reboot, and the interface feels outdated. You’re experimenting with VLAN page edits, switching between views, and saving only partial changes. Meanwhile, you’re upgrading from Mikrotik to Meraki MS & MX.
The interface depends on personal choice. I've relied on Mikrotik for ten years without any problems. They performed well in long-distance wireless connections, reaching up to six kilometers. I've deployed them in various environments—maritime, office, home—and consistently received reliable results. Most installations were remote, so I depended on the CLI for maintenance. For matching Mikrotik's dependability and speed over time, pfSense was the best match. That's why I often pair them: pfSense handles routing, while Mikrotik manages the WiFi.