Building a UniFi Mesh WiFi Network – Your Questions Answered
Q: What is UniFi, and why might I need to extend my WiFi network to other rooms in my home or workplace?
A: Think of Ubiquiti UniFi as a giant umbrella, with all your wireless and wired devices all securely managed and maintained, so you can get on with the most important things in your life. We love UniFi, and could rave on for hours – but we’ll let Ubiquiti tell you all about it instead (note: UniFi Voice subscription service is not currently available in Australia).
Many factors like distance, physical obstacles, and interference from other devices can weaken WiFi signals away from the router. A UniFi Mesh WiFi system can solve this issue, providing a stronger and more consistent connection compared to WiFi extenders.
Related question: What’s the difference between a UniFi Mesh system and cheap WiFi extenders?
WiFi extenders can increase your network’s range by dividing the bandwidth and creating a separate network, often resulting in slower internet speeds. UniFi Mesh systems create a single, seamless network and intelligently route traffic for optimal performance.
Related question: Will I need extra equipment to set up a UniFi mesh?
Along with UniFi Mesh Access Points, you might consider a UniFi OS Console. It’s not strictly necessary, as UniFi offers software for Windows, Mac, Linux, and smartphone devices that you can use to set up your mesh network. But a UniFi OS Console, such as the UDR, UDM-SE, or Cloud Key Gen 2, can provide full-time network monitoring, automatic firmware updates, and an array of other features. Compare UniFi OS Consoles (official Ubiquiti link)
Related question: Do I need network cabling to each UniFi Access Point for a mesh network?
Cabling each access point will provide the best performance, but isn’t necessary. UniFi Mesh Access Points can connect wirelessly via a “wireless uplink“. While performance can vary with distance and obstacles, UniFi’s intelligent software optimizes it for the best possible results.
Note: for best performance, “wire always wins”. We recommend wiring all APs back to a wired network switch where possible, and reserve wireless uplinks for the most difficult to cable areas.
Q: What’s the difference between Mesh and Non-Mesh systems?
A: The primary difference between Mesh and Non-Mesh systems lies in the way they handle network connectivity. Non-Mesh systems, such as a standard WiFi router, provide a single point of wireless connectivity. While this might be adequate for smaller spaces, its range can be limited, leading to weak or no signals in certain areas of your home.
A Mesh WiFi Access Point, on the other hand, communicates with other access points to create a ‘mesh’ of connectivity, allowing for a stronger and more consistent signal throughout your home, even in those pesky areas that seem to eat up WiFi. In other words, Mesh systems make the internet play ‘tag, you’re it!’ with your devices for a better connection.
You might think of your personal UIniFi mesh network as an intelligent assistant, cleverly disconnecting you from the access point you wandered away from, and connecting you to the nearest one, without you even noticing!
Related question: Will a Mesh system slow down my internet speed?
No, not at all. In fact, a Mesh system could improve your internet speed, especially in areas that previously had weak or unstable connections. It’s like having a personal WiFi assistant ensuring you get the best connection possible wherever you roam in your home.
Related question: Can I use Mesh and Non-Mesh systems together?
Yes, a well-designed network can effectively use a combination of Mesh and Non-Mesh systems. However, keep in mind that seamless roaming (meaning your device won’t ‘hold on’ to a weaker signal when a stronger one is available) typically works best in a fully Mesh environment. Also, consider disabling the existing WiFi on your NBN router for an interference-free mesh.
Q: What are the factors that determine if I need a mesh system?
A: The decision to use a mesh system depends on a variety of factors:
Your Home’s Size and Layout: A mesh system is particularly effective in larger homes or homes with complex layouts where the Wi-Fi signal from a single WiFi router may not reach all areas. Think of a typical Wi-Fi router as a single light bulb. If your home is too large, some rooms might be left in the dark. Switching on more light bulbs (access points) in other rooms brings light to those areas as well.
The Number of Devices: A mesh system can better handle a larger number of devices connected at the same time, ensuring all your devices receive a strong and consistent signal. This can be especially important in a modern smart home, where everything from your phone to your fridge may be connected to the internet.
Internet Usage: If your household has multiple users streaming, gaming, or video calling simultaneously, a mesh system can provide the necessary bandwidth to ensure everyone enjoys smooth and lag-free connectivity.
Related question: Can I start with a non-mesh system and upgrade to a mesh system later?
Yes, absolutely! One of the advantages of the UniFi system is its scalability. You can start with a single router and add more access points as you need them. It’s like building a Lego castle, one brick at a time, but for your internet!
Q: What are the main differences between a mesh system and a range extender?
A: While both mesh systems and range extenders are designed to improve Wi-Fi coverage, there are some key differences:
Connectivity: In a mesh system like UniFi, all the devices (or nodes) are part of the same network and share the same network name (SSID). This seamless connection allows your device to automatically switch to the strongest signal as you move around your home. A range extender, on the other hand, creates a separate network (with a new, or even the same SSID) in addition to your main router network. You may have to manually switch networks as you move around. Performance drops with typical extenders are also a main drawback. Mesh WiFi for the win.
Speed: Mesh systems typically offer faster speeds than range extenders. This is because many range extenders use the same band for both receiving and sending data, effectively halving the network’s potential speed. Mesh systems, such as the U6-PRO and U6-MESH, utilize multiple bands, allowing data to be received and sent simultaneously, maintaining faster network speeds.
Scalability: Mesh systems are also more scalable than range extenders. With a mesh system, you can easily add more nodes to cover larger areas or accommodate more devices. With range extenders, adding more can lead to further complexity and potential interference between signals.
Management: Mesh systems typically come with easy-to-use management software that gives you control over your network settings and features. For example, UniFi systems include a UniFi OS Console like UDR or UDM-SE that lets you manage your network from a centralized interface.
Related question: If I already have a range extender, is it worth switching to a mesh system?
If you’re experiencing issues with your current setup like slow speeds, dropouts, or having to manually switch between networks, it could be worth considering a switch to a mesh system. Not only can a mesh system like UniFi potentially solve these issues, but it also offers a host of additional features like easy network management and scalability.
Q: How does the setup process for a UniFi mesh network compare to other mesh systems?
A: Ubiquiti’s setup process for a UniFi mesh network is straightforward and designed with the user in mind. UniFi provides an intuitive user interface via the UniFi OS Controller or mobile app, which guides users through the configuration process step by step. Official link – How to Set Up UniFi – Ubiquiti Support and Help Center
Once you’ve connected your UniFi devices such as the U6-PRO or U6-MESH to your network, you can launch the controller software or app and begin configuring your network. The software will automatically detect the devices and assist you in setting them up.
Compared to other mesh systems, UniFi allows for a more customisable setup, offering advanced settings for those who want more control over their network configuration. For instance, with a UniFi OS Console like the UDR, UDM-SE or Cloud Key Gen 2, you can monitor and adjust settings like network traffic, connected devices, and more.
Related question: What if I encounter problems during the setup?
UniFi provides comprehensive support resources, including guides, tutorials, and community forums where you can find assistance and advice from other UniFi users. The controller software also includes built-in troubleshooting tools to help identify and resolve any issues you may encounter.
Q: Can I add more UniFi devices to expand my network after the initial setup?
A: Absolutely! One of the major advantages of the UniFi system is its scalability. You can add more UniFi devices to your network at any time after the initial setup. The UniFi controller software or mobile app makes this process easy and straightforward.
Whether you’re adding another U6-MESH access point in your outdoor living area to broaden your Wi-Fi coverage, or a UDM-SE for world-class firewall security. Any new UniFi device will integrate seamlessly into your existing network.
When you connect a new UniFi device to your network, the controller software or app will automatically detect it. You can then follow the on-screen instructions to configure the device and add it to your network. All your network settings, preferences, and controls will automatically extend to the new device.
So, as your networking needs grow and change, your UniFi system can adapt and expand with you. Whether it’s for a growing home, a small business, or a large corporation, UniFi’s scalability makes it a highly versatile solution.
Q: How do I manage my UniFi network once it’s set up?
A: Managing your UniFi network is made simple thanks to the UniFi OS Consoles and the UniFi Network application. The UniFi OS Consoles such as the UDR, UDM-SE or the Cloud Key Gen2 provide a unified, centralized interface for managing your UniFi devices and services. They offer real-time analytics, allow you to manage multiple sites, and provide automated backup solutions.
If you choose not to use a UniFi OS Console, you can manage your network with the UniFi Network application, available for iOS and Android devices. The app provides a convenient way to manage your network from anywhere, at any time. It offers many of the same features as the UniFi OS Consoles, including the ability to monitor your network, adjust settings, and troubleshoot problems.
The UniFi software solutions are designed to provide an intuitive user experience. They give you access to powerful tools and analytics, but with a user-friendly interface that’s easy to navigate. So whether you’re a networking novice or a seasoned pro, you can effectively manage and optimize your UniFi network with ease.
In Summary
Setting up and managing a UniFi Mesh WiFi network involves several considerations. Here’s what you need to know:
- The newest models, currently the U6 series are highly recommended for creating a robust and seamless wireless network.
- Additional UniFi devices can enhance your network’s performance and offer more control with greater security and monitoring over your Wi-Fi environment, like the UDM-SE or the Cloud Key Gen2.
- While you can set up a mesh network without ethernet cabling to each access point, using cables usually provides better performance.
- Consider the physical environment when placing your devices. Factors like distance, obstacles, and interference can affect the network’s performance.
- You can manage your UniFi network using UniFi OS Consoles or the UniFi Network application, both offering real-time analytics and network management tools.
Understanding these basics can help you make the most of your UniFi Mesh network. However, every setup is unique, and the optimal configuration for you will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. The good news? You have the flexibility and control to create a Wi-Fi environment that fits perfectly with your requirements.