Unifi upgrade
Unifi upgrade
Hello, thank you for reaching out. I’m planning to enhance my network setup and learning as I go. I’m a bit uncertain about whether my current approach is correct. I currently have the USW-Enterprise-8-PoE (120W) and intend to purchase an Ubiquiti UniFi Switch Aggregation. In the computer room, both the NAS and my PC use CAT 6 ports, and when we relocate, I want my wife’s PC to also support CAT 6. Since we’re renting, I’m unsure if we can upgrade from CAT 5e to CAT 6. Let’s just say it’s not a big deal. I’ll keep the computer room on CAT 6.
My main question is: should I install the Intel Ethernet Converged X710-DA2 adapter in the Synology NAS and transfer the existing one to the pfSense device? Also, I’d like my PC, my wife’s PC, the server (Docker PC), and the pfSense box to use adapters such as XZSNET 10GBASE-T SFP+, SFP+ to RJ45, 10G Copper SFP+ to Ethernet Module—compatible with Cisco SFP-10G-T-S, Ubiquiti UniFi UF-RJ45-10G, Mikrotik, Meraki, Netgear, D-Link, and more (2x XZSNET 10GBASE-T SFP+), plus a 1-meter passive 10Gtek# cable for the NAS. I also plan to connect the NAS to the USW-Enterprise-8-PoE via a 10Gtek# SFP+ DAC Twinax cable.
I’m considering buying Flex Mini 2.5G adapters for the rest of the house, except for the UniFi U7-Pro, which I’ll need. I hope this makes sense and that I’m on the right track. Please let me know if you have any concerns or further advice. Thanks for your time!
Generally, an aggregation device is needed to serve as the primary upstream switch managing several downstream switches. This setup is typical in many organizations. However, an aggregation switch can also function as a basic switch for individual use. I assume Ubiquiti’s USW-Flex-X supports 10 Gbps via SFP+. The adapters or conversion modules demand significant power and produce considerable heat, making them unsuitable for USW-Aggregation. Using just one or two devices is possible, but four transceivers may strain the aggregation switch’s power supply. Ubiquiti offers the USW-Flex-X, a 10 Gbps switch with RJ45 ports. You might connect a single transceiver to your 8-port POE switch to link to the Flex-X, thereby adding four more RJ45 ports for 10 Gbps. How complex is your Synology NAS? Do you have sufficient drives in it with a compatible RAID setup to fully utilize a 10 Gbps connection? It would be useful to know why you’re considering this aggregation switch. It seems like a reasonably priced 10 Gbps switch, but it’s not designed for RJ45 ports.
I considered my options carefully. The flex only offers four ports, which limits expansion and makes adding another PC difficult. I’m leaning toward switching to a different brand, but I’ve grown accustomed to UniFi devices. From what I understand, managing multiple branded switches can be challenging. I’m also thinking about upgrading to fiber, though I’m unsure where to begin. Honestly, it feels a bit overwhelming, especially since improper calibration could damage the laser due to its power. I own an 1821+ model that’s fully populated with two MB2 cache and 32GB RAM.
You can manage more gadgets through a straightforward IP-based setup, bypassing Unifi’s tools. Are all these devices located together? Then consider buying SFP+ cards for your PCs and connecting them directly via an aggregation switch to achieve a 10 Gbps link. Keep in mind, upgrading the whole network to 10 Gbps isn’t an inexpensive venture.
The only option I have is a 10 GbE switch with just 4 ports, which isn’t sufficient. The next model I saw costs around $1299. I’m planning an upgrade soon and don’t need to worry about it lasting more than five years.