Updated version of my internet package Revised details for the new plan
Updated version of my internet package Revised details for the new plan
Hey there, this is my third—and likely last—edit on my home’s new networking setup. The current layout hasn’t been updated yet, but based on my previous post it’s mostly the same with a few devices swapped around: three UAP-FlexHD units from Ubiquiti, one UAP-nanoHD from Ubiquiti, and one RB3011UIAS-RM from MicroTik. The main reason I chose MicroTik over a UDM-Pro is budget—adding another $210 would be tough, and I’d need an unmanaged PoE switch since the UDM-Pro doesn’t support it. If I could, I’d go for it.
The three FlexHDs will go downstairs since none will be mounted on the ceiling. I initially thought two would suffice, but after checking the UniFi design center, I realized adding a third downstairs would be smart and worth the extra $180. The nanoHD will sit centrally upstairs, mounted on the ceiling in the middle of the hallway. I plan to run a wire into the attic and back down, and I think it’ll be manageable.
Here are the signal diagrams from the design center. I’m still looking for feedback before finalizing the purchase. Yes, MicroTik routers can be trickier than Unifi ones, but I’ll figure it out. Also, I’m curious—can the single PoE switch on my chosen MicroTik router power the nanoHD? I’m not very familiar with PoE setups.
The router you referred to has only one POE outlet (#10) and provides passive power around 24V. The AP models you mentioned need active POE (802.3af or 802.3at) delivering 48V. https://mikrotik.com/product/RB3011UiAS-RM The “hEX POE” model offers active power on all four LAN ports. https://mikrotik.com/product/RB960PGS I haven’t seen any affordable routers with more than four LAN ports and active POE. In short, there isn’t a device like the RB3011 that has half its ports as active power, even if that would be ideal. Ubiquiti Edgerouter has several models with many POE ports, but they’re only passive. Keep in mind that most APs require a POE injector unless you purchase a bundle, and you’ll need one if you plan to use VLANs or similar features.
Consider using one of these options. The router has a single PoE port, which you can connect to the AP on the second floor. Injecting power there might work, but it could be a long run and might not be the best idea. You mentioned planning to switch to a managed UniFi switch later, so you might not need PoE for now. For now, sticking with MicroTik for routing seems reasonable.
The POE offered by the included injector matches that of a switch. The injector with the AP supports the complete 100m (330ft) maximum length for Ethernet standards. Opting for a switch reduces clutter, which becomes important when multiple devices are powered from the same spot. I generally prefer managed switches over unmanaged ones since their operation is hard to monitor. A “smart” switch would be a better choice, though it may cost slightly more. An unmanaged switch like the one provided would still function properly.
Use managed switches for VLAN configuration. If you don<|pad|>, unmanaged switches can forward VLAN tags.
In this environment, calls might drop if you're using WiFi calling and moving between access points. Since your home lacks cell service, relying on WiFi calls is necessary, but your current xFi pods can lose connectivity when switching pods.
When you turn on the “Fast Roaming” option in Unifi, everything should function smoothly—that’s the intended purpose of the feature.
I think it’s usually turned on now, but for someone who checks every setting, it doesn’t seem important. Back then there were problems with devices that didn’t have 802.11r support when the setting was on, and also difficulties switching networks between APs using different chipsets (like Qualcomm vs Mediatek). Those issues are fixed today, so the second one wouldn’t matter.