F5F Stay Refreshed Power Users Networks Requesting advice from Ubiquiti experts

Requesting advice from Ubiquiti experts

Requesting advice from Ubiquiti experts

X
xFrusky
Junior Member
43
07-03-2024, 10:51 AM
#1
Planning a comprehensive network refresh, focusing on a complete rebuild while preserving existing wiring. Budget targets under $1500 CAD, aiming for under $1000 CAD. Current configuration includes two 1,000 sq ft living areas and a 500 sq ft basement workshop. Network cabinets are installed in the workshop, with fiber connections at 300/300 (typically 400/300) and 8 port Gigabit switches per room. Each room gets a single Cat5e switch, and coaxial cables are used for the top floor office, connecting to a Nighthawk AC router as an access point and switch for both 2.4 and 5GHz bands, as well as a hardline to a media server and office PC. A 48Drive Media Server will be added later, along with additional devices like a workshop PC, spare bedroom PC, kitchen Raspberry Pi smart screen, and possibly another office computer. You’re considering upgrading all gear to a full Ubiquiti setup—routers, switches, PoE, and access points across all three floors. You’ve selected specific products from Amazon and are seeking guidance on choosing the right number of Unifi devices, whether to buy one per floor or more for higher capacity. You also want advice on Cloud Key usage and alternatives to software management. You prefer maintaining the unmanaged switch in the office for stability and simplicity.
X
xFrusky
07-03-2024, 10:51 AM #1

Planning a comprehensive network refresh, focusing on a complete rebuild while preserving existing wiring. Budget targets under $1500 CAD, aiming for under $1000 CAD. Current configuration includes two 1,000 sq ft living areas and a 500 sq ft basement workshop. Network cabinets are installed in the workshop, with fiber connections at 300/300 (typically 400/300) and 8 port Gigabit switches per room. Each room gets a single Cat5e switch, and coaxial cables are used for the top floor office, connecting to a Nighthawk AC router as an access point and switch for both 2.4 and 5GHz bands, as well as a hardline to a media server and office PC. A 48Drive Media Server will be added later, along with additional devices like a workshop PC, spare bedroom PC, kitchen Raspberry Pi smart screen, and possibly another office computer. You’re considering upgrading all gear to a full Ubiquiti setup—routers, switches, PoE, and access points across all three floors. You’ve selected specific products from Amazon and are seeking guidance on choosing the right number of Unifi devices, whether to buy one per floor or more for higher capacity. You also want advice on Cloud Key usage and alternatives to software management. You prefer maintaining the unmanaged switch in the office for stability and simplicity.

S
SworDam
Junior Member
17
07-04-2024, 01:03 AM
#2
For your particular needs, the CloudKey option isn't necessary. You can opt for software to run the Unifi Controller. Alternatively, you have the choice of hosting it on Windows, Linux, or MacOS instead of a dedicated device.
S
SworDam
07-04-2024, 01:03 AM #2

For your particular needs, the CloudKey option isn't necessary. You can opt for software to run the Unifi Controller. Alternatively, you have the choice of hosting it on Windows, Linux, or MacOS instead of a dedicated device.

M
MetMorfin_YT
Member
120
07-04-2024, 01:34 AM
#3
Making a quick note here, I ended up with two Ubiquiti UAP-pro units—one in the office and one in the living room on separate floors. Everything is working perfectly, and it’s delivering the strongest signal I’ve seen from any of my wireless devices. I really like how easy it is to set up icons and names for the network devices, with clear details on what each has. The handoff feels completely smooth; it’s impossible to tell there are two sources sharing the same network name. Overall, I’m extremely impressed.
M
MetMorfin_YT
07-04-2024, 01:34 AM #3

Making a quick note here, I ended up with two Ubiquiti UAP-pro units—one in the office and one in the living room on separate floors. Everything is working perfectly, and it’s delivering the strongest signal I’ve seen from any of my wireless devices. I really like how easy it is to set up icons and names for the network devices, with clear details on what each has. The handoff feels completely smooth; it’s impossible to tell there are two sources sharing the same network name. Overall, I’m extremely impressed.