Three storeys, thick walls, high demand: no problem!
More and more customers are asking for these quite expensive, but extremely powerful UniFi networks: So what's it all about?
Since we at Maidstone Technology have been installing Starlink receiver networks, we have a growing number of requests for improved internal WiFi networks. The reason for this, at least this is my best guess, is that most Starlink installs tend to be rural, and so these properties tend to be larger, older, with thicker walls, and have outdoor space. Also, because they are more rural, they suffer from poorer mobile network coverage, which means no network in the annexe, on the patio, in the garden and even some of the rooms. And in today's connected world, that won't do.
So what's to be done? Well, this is where Ubiquiti's UniFi products and software system come in. Now, I'm going to be straight up front here: these are not cheap, even when compared to some premium alternatives. But they deliver, and I've yet to hear a single word of regret.
So what is Ubiquiti UniFi Networks, and what are the benefits?
Ubiquiti UniFi networks represent a revolutionary approach to modern networking, offering a comprehensive ecosystem that integrates hardware and software for seamless connectivity. Designed for both home users and enterprises, UniFi combines routers, switches, access points, and more under a unified management platform. As of 2025, with ongoing advancements in Wi-Fi technology and cloud integration, UniFi continues to stand out for its blend of affordability, performance, and ease of use. This article explores the key benefits of UniFi networks, drawing from its features in scalability, management, security, and beyond, making it an ideal choice for users seeking reliable, high-speed networking solutions.
Super fast and super smart Wifi network
Other than the price, it's hard to find a single flaw
One of the primary advantages of UniFi is its ease of setup and management. Traditional networking setups often require extensive technical knowledge, involving command-line configurations and disparate tools. In contrast, UniFi simplifies this process through a centralised controller software that can be installed with a single click on various hosts, including dedicated Cloud Gateways or even personal hardware like AWS instances.
The dashboard is intuitive, featuring drag-and-drop interfaces for device adoption and automatic firmware updates, which ensure security patches are applied seamlessly before devices fully integrate into the network. For instance, users can upload floor plans to visualise access point placements, optimising coverage without guesswork. This user-friendly approach extends to mobile management, allowing administrators to oversee their entire network from a smartphone, anywhere in the world. Whether for a small home office or a sprawling campus, this significantly reduces deployment time, often to minutes rather than hours, making it accessible even to non-experts.
Closely tied to ease of use is UniFi's which allows networks to grow effortlessly with business or personal needs. Starting from a basic setup with a single access point, users can expand to hundreds of devices across multiple sites without overhauling the infrastructure. The system automatically recognises new hardware, such as additional switches or cameras, integrating them into the existing controller. This is particularly beneficial for businesses, where UniFi's range supports coverage up to 122 meters per access point and can handle networks spanning kilometres with thousands of users. For larger deployments, like hotels or stadiums, the cloud-based Site Manager enables multi-site management via secure SD-WAN connections, ensuring consistent performance across locations. This scalability is cost-effective, as it avoids the need for proprietary hardware upgrades, allowing users to add components incrementally without disrupting operations.
In terms of performance and reliability, UniFi networks excel by delivering high-speed, uninterrupted connectivity. With support for Wi-Fi 6 and 7 standards, access points like the AC-Wave variants achieve throughputs exceeding 2,500 Mbps, eliminating buffering and dead zones. Devices seamlessly switch between access points as users move, maintaining strong signals in dynamic environments such as warehouses or large homes. The robust hardware, combined with real-time monitoring, minimises outages by proactively identifying issues like bandwidth congestion. Advanced features, including dynamic LCD displays on devices, provide instant feedback on system health, alerts, and network status, enhancing on-site troubleshooting. For power users, UniFi's integration of PoE (Power over Ethernet) simplifies cabling, powering devices like cameras and screens directly through network switches, reducing clutter and improving efficiency. Overall, this results in a network that handles heavy loads reliably, from streaming 4K video to supporting IoT devices in smart homes.
And with all the recent hacking stories, is it secure?
Security is another cornerstone benefit of UniFi networks, addressing modern threats with enterprise-grade tools. The platform includes built-in firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and the ability to create isolated VLANs for guests or departments, preventing unauthorised access. Real-time alerts for unusual activity, such as spikes in data usage, allow quick responses to potential breaches. Data remains local and secure, even with cloud management, thanks to license-free remote access that doesn't compromise privacy. For businesses, this transparency extends to configurable analytics, tracking device usage and enforcing policies like bandwidth limits. Unlike consumer-grade routers, UniFi's unified interface ensures all security settings are managed centrally, reducing vulnerabilities from misconfigurations. This robust security framework makes UniFi suitable for sensitive environments, such as healthcare or finance, where data protection is paramount.
Appear to be located wherever you desire.
So is it worth the money?
To summarise: If you can afford it, then yes is the answer. But even if you can afford it, a potential installation cost, including the devices and labour, can easily run to £1500 to £2000, which will not be to everyone's liking. But as I said in my first paragraph, not a single client has had any regrets.
Maidstone Technology
Maidstone Technology provides Starlink installation services and internal networking solutions for domestic and business customers. For any advice regarding these services, please contact us.