Guide: Setting Up a Ubiquiti UniFi Network for a Small Office or Business

Setting up a UniFi network from Ubiquiti for a small office or business provides a professional-grade solution with robust performance and easy management. This guide walks you through the process step-by-step.

1. Planning Your Network

Outline your network requirements: determine how many employees and devices (e.g., laptops, phones, printers) will use the network. Assess the office size and the number of floors to ensure proper WiFi coverage. Identify devices that need wired (Ethernet) and wireless connections. Ensure you have a reliable ISP and modem in place.

2. Components You’ll Need

Here’s the hardware commonly needed for a small business setup:

• UniFi Gateway: Acts as the router and firewall (e.g., UniFi Dream Router or UniFi Express).
• UniFi Switch: For wired connections; options vary based on the number of Ethernet ports required (e.g., 8-port, 16-port).
• UniFi Access Points (APs): Provide WiFi coverage (e.g., UniFi U6+, Long Range, or Pro models).
• Controller: The UniFi Controller software is built into devices like the Dream Machine but can also run on a separate server, UniFi Cloud Key, or hosted in the cloud.

3. Connecting the Hardware

Set up the gateway by connecting it to your ISP modem with an Ethernet cable. Connect the gateway’s LAN port to the switch. Mount access points on walls or ceilings for optimal coverage and connect them to the switch using Ethernet cables.

4. Installing the UniFi Controller

The UniFi Controller manages all devices in the network. If you are using a device like the UniFi Dream Machine, the controller is already built-in. Alternatively, download the UniFi Network Application from the Ubiquiti website and install it on a computer or server.

5. Configuring the Network

Launch the UniFi Controller and adopt devices it detects on the network. Configure internet settings (either dynamically via DHCP or with static IP settings from your ISP). Set up WiFi networks for employees, guests, or IoT devices with secure passwords and WPA3 encryption. Optionally, create VLANs to separate traffic and enable QoS (Quality of Service) to prioritise critical traffic. Ensure all UniFi devices are running the latest firmware.

6. Testing and Optimising the Network

Test both wired and wireless connections. Verify that all wired devices have stable internet connectivity. Use a mobile device to check WiFi strength throughout the office. Adjust the placement of access points if necessary to improve coverage. Fine-tune channel and bandwidth settings to minimise interference. Monitor the network using the UniFi Controller dashboard.

7. Maintaining the Network

Back up the UniFi Controller configuration regularly. Schedule periodic firmware updates to improve security and performance. Use the Controller’s analytics to monitor for unusual activity or bandwidth spikes.

This setup ensures a reliable, scalable, and secure network for a small office or business. For a visual walkthrough, refer to detailed video guides like the one linked.

To explore more about the range of UniFi products and find the right one for your home, visit Ubiquiti’s official website.