Installing UniFi Controller on Windows

If you're looking to move your UniFi controller to the cloud, installing it on a Windows machine is an option. It's definitely not the only option. We, at UniHosted, are a managed UniFi cloud controller, meaning that we host your UniFi controller in the cloud.

The difference? Less Hassle (and probably better security) But hey! how am I?

Let's get on with the hassle and walk you through the steps to install your UniFi controller on Windows.

Here we go!

---

🚨 Before we dive in, please don't host your UniFi Controller on windows if you work with clients. Sooner or later this will cause issues! It's fine for home users, but definitely not recommended for businesses. You can try UniHosted for free.

---

Table of Contents

• The UniFi Controller
• Downloading the UniFi Controller Software
• Installing the UniFi Controller
• Initial Setup of the UniFi Controller
• Post-Installation Tips
• Final Thoughts

The UniFi Controller

Let's start at the start. The UniFi Controller is a software application from Ubiquiti that allows you to manage your UniFi network devices from a single interface. Installing it on Windows brings the network management capabilities on your desktop

Before beginning the installation, please make sure your Windows machine meets the following requirements:

• A compatible version of Windows (Windows 7, 8, 10, or later).
• Sufficient RAM and storage for smooth operation (at least 2GB of RAM and 20GB of free disk space).
• A network connection for downloading the software and managing devices.

Downloading the UniFi Controller Software

1. Visit the Ubiquiti Website: Go to the download page here.
2. Select the Software: Choose the UniFi Controller software version for your Windows version.
3. Download the Installer: Click the download link and save the installer file to your machine.

Installing the UniFi Controller

1. Run the Installer: Double-click the downloaded installer file to start the installation process.
2. Follow the Installation Wizard: The wizard will guide you through the setup. Accept the license agreement, choose the installation folder, and configure any necessary settings.
3. Complete the Installation: Once the installation is complete, click 'Finish.' The UniFi Controller software will launch automatically in your default web browser.

Initial Setup of the UniFi Controller

Alright, almost there. Here is how the initial setup of the UniFi Controller works

1. Access the Controller: The first time you open the UniFi Controller, it will ask you to set up your controller.
2. Create an Admin Account: Set up an admin username and password. This account will be used to manage your UniFi devices.
3. Configure the Network Settings: Follow the on-screen instructions to configure basic network settings, such as country and timezone etc.
4. Adopt UniFi Devices: If you have UniFi devices on your network, the Controller will detect them. You can then adopt and configure these devices through the Controller interface.

Post-Installation Tips

• Update Firmware: Make sure that your UniFi devices are running the latest firmware for optimal performance with the Controller. This is also important for security reasons. Running your controller on an outdated version can be open for exploits. At UniHosted, we make sure you're always on the right version running your network at peak performance.

• Secure Your Network: Implement strong passwords and consider enabling two-factor authentication for added security.

Final Thoughts

Installing the UniFi Controller on a Windows machine is a great step for better network management. It provides a powerful platform for monitoring, adjusting, and scaling your network as needed. However, you still make sure everything is running smoothly yourself.

If you don't want the hassle of installing, updating and securing your network yourself, let us do it. At UniHosted, we offer fully managed UniFi Controllers with automatic backups, worry-free SSL setup, and support.

Feel free to give it a try. Additionally, I'm happy to personally walk you through. Just schedule a meeting using my calendar link. If you would like me to personally walk you through UniHosted, you can schedule a call with me here.