How parent devices work within UniFi

Ubiquiti's provides networking solutions designed to provide great connectivity in different environments. At the heart of this system are the "parent devices." They serve as central hubs managing multiple networking components.

This blog post explores the role of parent devices within the UniFi ecosystem, detailing their functionality, benefits, and integration strategies.

Let's dive in!

Table of Contents

• UniFi parent devices
• Key functions of parent devices
• How to Integrate Parent Devices in a UniFi Setup
  • Step 1: Choose the Right Parent Device
  • Step 2: Setup and Installation
  • Step 3: Configure Network Settings
  • Step 4: Monitor and Manage
• Benefits of Using UniFi Parent Devices
• Final Thoughts

UniFi parent devices

Parent devices refer to hardware components that control and coordinate the network operations of connected devices (often referred to as "child devices"). Examples of parent devices include:

• UniFi Security Gateway (USG): Manages network security and routing.
• UniFi Dream Machine (UDM): Combines a network router, switch, and access point with advanced security features.
• UniFi Cloud Key: Hosts the UniFi Controller software, allowing for network management and configuration.

These devices are critical for enforcing network policies, routing traffic, and providing centralized control over the network’s performance and security.

Key functions of parent devices

1. Centralization: Parent devices facilitate management of the network with a single interface (via the UniFi Controller software). The goal is to centralize for configuring, monitoring, and managing all connected UniFi devices. This approach simplifies network administration, making it easier to deploy updates, apply configurations, and troubleshoot issues across the entire network.

2. Security: UniFi parent devices such as the USG and UDM make sure routing and securing network traffic is done propelry. They implement firewall policies, VPN connections, and intrusion prevention systems to safeguard the network from external threats. They also manage the flow of data across the network to avoid bottlenecks.

3. Scalability Parent devices are designed to support network scalability. As a business grows, additional UniFi access points, switches, and other devices can be integrated into the network without the need for significant reconfiguration. The parent device makes sure these additions have the existing network policies and configurations, maintaining uniformity and security across the expanded network.

How to Integrate Parent Devices in a UniFi Setup

Step 1: Choose the Right Parent Device

Select a parent device that suits your network size, performance requirements, and specific features (like VPN support or advanced threat management).

For instance, a small business might opt for a UDM for its all-in-one functionality, while a larger enterprise or MSP might require the robust security features of a cloud-hosted UniFi Controller.

Step 2: Setup and Installation

• Install the UniFi Controller software on your machine or directly deploy a fully managed UniFi Controller with UniHosted.
• Connect the parent device to your internet modem and to other network infrastructure like switches or directly to access points.
• Power up the device and connect it to the UniFi Controller to initiate configuration.

Step 3: Configure Network Settings

Using the UniFi Controller interface:

• Set up your network(s), defining SSIDs for wireless networks, VLANs for network segmentation, and DHCP settings for IP address management.
• Configure security settings, including firewall rules, guest network limitations, and VPN settings if needed.

Step 4: Monitor and Manage

Regularly monitor the performance and security of your network through the UniFi Controller dashboard. Use the insights gathered to optimize the network configuration and respond to emerging security threats promptly.

Benefits of Using UniFi Parent Devices

• Simplified network management: Streamlines the administration of complex networks.
• Better security: Provides tools for network protection.
• Scalability: Easy expansion of network infrastructure.
• Consistency: Uniform policies and configurations across all network devices.

Final Thoughts

UniFi parent devices are the backbone of any UniFi-based network, providing essential services such as management, security, and scalability. By understanding how to effectively deploy and utilize these devices, businesses can ensure a robust, secure, and efficient networking environment.

If you don't want the hassle of installing, updating and constantly checking your network efficiency, feel free to give UniHosted a spin. We provide fully managed UniFi Controllers with automatic backups, worry-free SSL setup, and on a stable version.

Additionally, if you want me to personally walk you through just book a meeting using my link