Someone new trying to connect with others...
Someone new trying to connect with others...
Hello and good day... im thinking of implementing "due to my fathers request" an upgrade to our small family business network. now i an new to networking outside of basic ISP to switch to PC networking and would like more experienced users to look at what im thinking of implementing if its viable. please take note that this is a small family business and buying expensive network gear might be a little stretch to our budget. this is the said network layout. Now for my explanation on why i would like to set it up this way. first is the price... with this im only looking at around $500 - 600 worth of equipment 2nd is using pfsense. ive been looking for a way to make it so that we have guess wifi and employee wifi. basically making the guess wifi a timed connection and also having vouchers later on if needed. 3rd is later on im also thinking of using the 1u as a sort of database for our business. Tracking item stock and stuff maybe even using it as a CCTV video storage just to save money. not sure how i would implement that but im sure ill find a way to jank it up. now im asking if this setup is viable and OR any better alternative for my use case. Feedback is much appreciated. Thank you. edit: reason why im using 2 switch on different floors is because there are still some area in our building that isnt being used. but im just thinking ahead just incase we do need wifi/lan connection in those area... or should i just trow the 2 switch idea and just run lines from first floor to all the different areas of our building... XD Edited March 25, 2021 by Johanes forgot to add something
Consider using Unifi products instead of PfSense to streamline your network. You can deploy a Unifi security gateway and even use PoE switches for your APs. All devices are centrally managed via a controller, though you’ll need one for logging and setup. Once configured, you can oversee your whole network from the cloud. While not the fastest option with heavy filtering, it works well. I’m not claiming Unifi is the top choice, but it’s a solid “prosumer” solution I’ve used with Fortigate firewalls to create separate VLANs.
This configuration works well. Key considerations include: UniFi APs typically use PoE, so ensure the AP includes a PoE injector and you have a power source nearby. Choose APs with sufficient antenna ports to cover the client area. You don’t need UniFi switches, but PoE models simplify cabling. The UniFi Controller lets you manage network settings like VLANs and broadcast channels, keeping them efficient. Since APs are clustered, avoid overlapping channels and keep power levels low. Wireless handover should happen smoothly as users move between levels. A USG isn’t required here; your pfSense router should handle the job better with additional features. Good luck!