Can UniFi USG Act as a UniFi Controller?

When setting up a UniFi network, it's common to wonder if the UniFi Security Gateway (USG) can also function as a UniFi Controller. The USG is already an essential device for routing and network security, so wouldn't it be nice if it could manage access points and switches too?

Let's Dive In!

Table of Contents

• What is the UniFi USG?
• What is a UniFi Controller?
• What Devices Can Act as a UniFi Controller?
• Can the UniFi USG Act as a Controller?
• Can the USG Be Used Without a Controller?
• How to Set Up a UniFi USG (with a Controller)
• Best Alternatives to a Standalone Controller
• Common Questions
• Final Thoughts

What is the UniFi USG?

The UniFi Security Gateway (USG) is a specialized device that works as a firewall, router, and traffic manager for your network. Think of it as the "traffic cop" of your home or business network. Its main job is to secure the network, route traffic, and allow or block devices based on security policies.

Here’s what makes the USG special:

• Advanced Routing: Routes internet traffic to and from your network.

• Firewall Protection: Blocks malicious traffic and controls which devices can communicate.

• VPN Support: Enables secure remote access to your network.

• Traffic Shaping (QoS): Prioritizes important traffic (like video calls) to prevent lag.

The USG plays a critical role in a UniFi network, but it’s not a controller. To understand why, you need to understand what the controller does.

What is a UniFi Controller?

A UniFi Controller is software used to manage and configure all the UniFi devices on your network. Instead of logging into each device one-by-one, you use the controller to make changes to all devices at once. It also tracks device health, bandwidth usage, and client connections.

Here’s what a UniFi Controller can do:

• Device Management: Manage access points, switches, and USG from one dashboard.

• Firmware Updates: Push firmware updates to all devices.

• Wi-Fi Management: Create Wi-Fi networks, guest portals, and VLANs.

• Network Analytics: View usage reports, connection statistics, and device health.

• Backups & Restores: Backup your configuration and restore it to a new controller.

The controller is essential if you have multiple UniFi devices to manage. The controller software can be hosted on several types of devices.

What Devices Can Act as a UniFi Controller?

You have several options for running a UniFi Controller:

1. UniFi Cloud Key
   A plug-and-play device that runs the controller software. It’s small, reliable, and easy to set up.

2. UniFi Dream Machine (UDM) / UDM-Pro
   These all-in-one devices combine a router, controller, switch, and access point in one. The UDM has a controller built-in, so you don’t need anything else.

3. Cloud-Hosted Controller
   Services like UniHosted offer cloud-based controllers, so you don’t need to run it on-site. You pay a small monthly fee, and everything is managed remotely.

4. DIY Server or PC
   You can install the controller software on a Windows, Mac, or Linux PC. This option is cost-effective but requires some technical knowledge.

5. Raspberry Pi
   You can run the controller on a Raspberry Pi, but performance can be limited, especially for larger networks.

These options give you flexibility. If you don’t want to deal with hardware, you can use a cloud-hosted controller like UniHosted, which offers affordable plans starting at $30 per month.

Can the UniFi USG Act as a Controller?

No, the UniFi USG cannot act as a controller.

The USG is only a router/firewall, not a management device. It requires a UniFi Controller to handle configuration and firmware updates. While the USG can be controlled, it does not "control" other devices.

Here’s why the USG can’t be a controller:

1. Limited Hardware: The USG lacks the processing power, memory, and storage needed to run a controller.
2. No Controller Software: UniFi Controller software cannot be installed on a USG.
3. Controller-Dependent Design: The USG was designed to be managed by a controller, not to act as one.

While the USG can work without a controller, you lose out on key features like device adoption, remote access, and automatic updates. It’s better to pair it with a dedicated controller or use a cloud-hosted option like UniHosted.

Can the USG Be Used Without a Controller?

Technically, yes. You can configure a USG without a controller, but it’s far from ideal. This requires using SSH to connect directly to the device and run commands to set up network rules and configurations. This approach is best left to experienced network administrators.

Limitations of using a USG without a controller:

• No centralized control for other UniFi devices.
• No firmware updates or remote management.
• Tedious manual configuration via SSH.
• No access to Wi-Fi management or guest portal features.

For most people, using a controller is essential. If you want a simple, controller-free setup, look at standalone access points like the UniFi Flex Mini Switch or the UniFi AP Standalone.

How to Set Up a UniFi USG (with a Controller)

If you have a UniFi USG and want to set it up properly, follow these steps:

1. Set Up the Controller
   Choose one of the following options for the controller:

   • Cloud Key
   • Dream Machine (UDM/UDM-Pro)
   • Cloud-hosted controller via UniHosted
   • PC, server, or Raspberry Pi

2. Adopt the USG
   Use the UniFi Controller to "adopt" the USG. This step links the USG to the controller so you can manage it.

3. Configure Network Settings
   From the controller, set up VLANs, firewall rules, guest portals, and VPN.

4. Apply Settings
   Push the configuration to the USG. The controller sends commands to the USG to apply network settings.

This process is much easier than configuring the USG via SSH. If you’re looking for simplicity, the UniFi Dream Machine (UDM) is an all-in-one solution with a built-in controller.

Best Alternatives to a Standalone Controller

If you don't want to buy a Cloud Key or host the controller yourself, here are your options:

1. Use a UniFi Dream Machine (UDM/UDM-Pro)
   These devices have an integrated controller. No extra hardware is needed.

2. Use a Cloud-Hosted Controller
   Services like UniHosted give you a cloud controller for just $30/month. You get all the features of a hardware controller without the hassle.

3. Use a DIY Server
   Install the controller on an old PC or server. It’s free but requires more setup.

If you prefer to "set it and forget it," we recommend UniHosted for cloud-hosted controllers. It’s affordable, easy to set up, and requires no hardware.

Common Questions

1. Can a USG be a controller?
No, it can only be managed by a controller.

2. Can you use a USG without a controller?
Yes, but you’ll have to configure it manually using SSH, which is difficult.

3. What’s the easiest controller option?
A cloud-hosted controller from UniHosted is simple, fast, and affordable.

4. Do I need a Cloud Key if I have a UniFi Dream Machine (UDM)?
No, the UDM has a built-in controller.

5. Can I run the UniFi Controller on a Raspberry Pi?
Yes, but it may struggle to support large networks.

Final Thoughts

To sum it up:

• UniFi USG = Network Device (router/firewall)
• UniFi Controller = Management System (manages switches, APs, and USG)

The USG cannot act as a controller. It’s designed to be managed by a controller, not to control other devices. The best option is to pair it with a controller like a Cloud Key, Dream Machine, or a cloud-hosted controller.

If you don’t want to buy extra hardware, a cloud-hosted controller from UniHosted is your best bet. It’s affordable, requires no on-site hardware, and provides all the management tools of a traditional controller.

For help setting up your UniFi network, check out the official Introduction to UniFi. If you’re ready to go controller-free, head over to UniHosted to get started.

With this knowledge, you’re ready to set up a fully managed UniFi network. Choose the controller that fits your needs and get started today!If you would like me to personally walk you through UniHosted, you can schedule a call with me here.