Step-by-step guide to updating your UniFi controller on windows

Updating the UniFi Controller on Windows is essential for maintaining a secure and efficient network. Regular updates bring new features, fix bugs, and most importantly, patch security vulnerabilities.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of updating your UniFi Controller on a Windows machine, step by step.

Let's Dive In!

Table of Contents

• Why updating your UniFi controller is important
• Step-by-step guide to updating your UniFi controller on windows
  • 1. Backup your current configuration
  • 2. Download the latest UniFi controller version
  • 3. Stop the UniFi controller service
  • 4. Install the new UniFi controller version
  • 5. Restart the UniFi controller service
  • 6. Log in and verify the update
• Troubleshooting common update issues
  • 1. Restoring from backup
  • 2. Verifying compatibility
  • 3. Getting help from the UniFi community
• Tips for a smooth update experience
  • 1. Schedule updates during off-peak hours
  • 2. Keep all firmware up to date
  • 3. Monitor your network post-update
• Final Thoughts

Why updating your UniFi controller is important

Before diving into the update process, it’s worth discussing why you should regularly update your UniFi Controller. Each update typically includes a mix of new features, performance enhancements, and crucial security patches. Running an outdated controller can leave your network vulnerable to security risks and can cause compatibility issues with new UniFi devices.

Think of the UniFi Controller as the brain of your network. Just as you wouldn’t ignore software updates on your computer or smartphone, you shouldn’t neglect updates for your UniFi Controller.

Regular updates ensure your network remains secure, stable, and ready to take on the latest technologies.

Step-by-step guide to updating your UniFi controller on windows

Updating your UniFi Controller on Windows is a relatively straightforward process, but it’s important to follow each step carefully to avoid potential issues.

1. Backup your current configuration

Backing up your current configuration is the first and most crucial step in the update process. A backup ensures that if anything goes wrong during the update, you can easily restore your network settings to their previous state.

Here’s how to do it:

• Log into your UniFi Controller.

• Navigate to Settings > Maintenance.

• In the Backup section, click on Download Backup.

• Save the backup file to a secure location on your computer.

This backup acts as your safety net. It takes just a few minutes but can save you hours of troubleshooting if something goes wrong during the update.

2. Download the latest UniFi controller version

Next, you’ll need to download the latest version of the UniFi Controller software from Ubiquiti’s official website.

• Visit the Ubiquiti Downloads page.

• Select UniFi Network from the list of product categories.

• Scroll down to find the most recent UniFi Network Controller version compatible with your system.

• Download the installer to your computer.

Downloading the latest version ensures that you have access to all the new features, security updates, and performance improvements Ubiquiti has implemented.

3. Stop the UniFi controller service

Before you begin the installation, you’ll need to stop the existing UniFi Controller service. This step is essential to ensure that no files are in use during the installation, which could lead to errors.

To stop the UniFi Controller service:

• Press "Win + R" to open the Run dialog box.
• Type "services.msc" and press Enter to open the Services window.

• Scroll down to find UniFi Controller in the list of services.

• Right-click on it and select Stop.

Stopping the service ensures that the update process can proceed without any interruptions or file conflicts.

4. Install the new UniFi controller version

Now that the service is stopped, you can install the new version of the UniFi Controller.

• Locate the installer file you downloaded earlier and double-click it to run the setup.
• Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation process.
• When prompted, confirm that you want to overwrite the existing installation.

The installation process is straightforward, much like installing any other software on your computer. The new version will automatically replace the old files while preserving your configuration settings.

5. Restart the UniFi controller service

Once the installation is complete, you’ll need to restart the UniFi Controller service to apply the changes.

• Return to the Services window (you can open it again using "services.msc" if you closed it earlier).

• Find UniFi Controller in the list.

• Right-click on it and select Start.

Restarting the service brings the controller back online, now running the updated software.

6. Log in and verify the update

After restarting the service, it’s time to log back into your UniFi Controller and verify that everything is working as expected.

• Open your web browser and navigate to https://localhost:8443` or use the IP address of your controller.

• Log in using your credentials.
• Review your dashboard to ensure all devices are connected and functioning correctly.

Take some time to navigate through the interface and check the status of your devices. This step helps you catch any issues early before they become bigger problems.

Troubleshooting common update issues

Even with careful preparation, updates don’t always go as planned. Here are some common issues and how to address them:

1. Restoring from backup

If something goes wrong during the update and you need to revert to your previous settings, you can easily restore from the backup you created earlier.

• Log into your UniFi Controller.

• Go to Settings > Maintenance > Restore.

• Upload the backup file and restore your previous configuration.

This should bring your network back to its pre-update state, resolving any issues caused by the new version.

2. Verifying compatibility

Ensure that the version you’ve installed is compatible with your operating system and UniFi devices. If you’ve accidentally installed an incompatible version, you may need to uninstall it and revert to a previous version that is compatible with your setup.

3. Getting help from the UniFi community

If you’re struggling with the update or encounter an issue you can’t resolve, don’t hesitate to seek help from the UniFi community. The UniFi Community Forums are full of experienced users who can offer advice and solutions to most problems.

Tips for a smooth update experience

Here are a few tips to help ensure that your update process goes smoothly:

1. Schedule updates during off-peak hours

To minimize disruption, schedule updates during times when your network usage is low. This way, if the update takes longer than expected or causes temporary issues, it won’t significantly impact your network’s users.

2. Keep all firmware up to date

In addition to updating your UniFi Controller, make sure that the firmware on your UniFi devices (access points, switches, etc.) is also up to date. This ensures that all components of your network are running the latest software and are fully compatible with each other.

3. Monitor your network post-update

After completing the update, monitor your network closely for a few days to ensure everything is working as it should. This allows you to catch any issues early and address them before they affect your network’s performance.

Final Thoughts

Updating your UniFi Controller on Windows is a vital part of maintaining a secure and efficient network. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that the update process goes smoothly, with minimal disruption to your network.

If managing updates, backups, and monitoring feels overwhelming, especially in a large or complex network environment, consider switching to a hosted UniFi Controller solution like the one we offer at UniHosted.