Tips for securing your UniFi Controller

Managing UniFi Controllers involves not just overseeing network devices and traffic but also ensuring the security of the controllers themselves. Taking proactive steps to secure your UniFi Controller is critical.

This article will share some practical tips for MSPs and network administrators on improving the security of UniFi Controllers. This will help you make sure that your network management tools are as secure as the networks they oversee.

Let's dive in!

Table of Contents

• Keep the UniFi Controller Updated
• Use Strong, Unique Passwords
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
• Utilize Firewall Rules
• Implement Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
• Secure Network Communications
• Regularly Back Up Your Controller
• Monitor and Audit Access
• Disable Unused Features and Services
• Educate Users
• Final thoughts

Keep the UniFi Controller Updated

Regularly updating your UniFi Controller and all connected devices is the first line of defense. This seems straightforward but is often overlooked. Ubiquiti releases updates that often include security patches along with new features and performance improvements. Set a schedule for checking and applying those updates. Here is how we do this at UniHosted.

Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Also, very straightforward but super important. Employ strong, unique passwords for accessing the UniFi Controller. Avoid using default or easily guessable passwords. Consider using a password manager like 1password to generate and store complex passwords, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification beyond just a password. Enable 2FA for all accounts with access to the UniFi Controller to significantly reduce the risk of account compromise.

Utilize Firewall Rules

Configure firewall rules to restrict inbound and outbound traffic to only necessary ports and protocols. Limiting access to the UniFi Controller to specific IP addresses or networks can also help prevent unauthorized access.

Implement Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)

UniFi Controllers support role-based access control, allowing you to assign specific permissions to users based on their roles. Use RBAC to ensure that users have only the access they need to perform their duties, minimizing the potential impact of a compromised account.

Secure Network Communications

Make sure that communications with your UniFi Controller are encrypted. Use HTTPS for web access, and consider setting up a VPN for remote access to the controller, especially if accessing it over public internet connections.

Regularly Back Up Your Controller

Regular backups of your UniFi Controller can help you recover quickly from data loss, corruption, or cyberattacks. Store backups in a secure, off-site location and test them regularly to ensure they can be restored.

Monitor and Audit Access

Keep an eye on who is accessing the UniFi Controller and what changes they are making. Regular auditing and monitoring can help detect unauthorized access or suspicious activities early, allowing for a swift response.

Disable Unused Features and Services

If there are features or services within the UniFi Controller that you are not using, consider disabling them. This reduces the controller's attack surface and helps focus security efforts on active components.

Educate Users

Educate anyone with access to the UniFi Controller about the importance of security practices, including phishing awareness, the significance of secure passwords, and the need for regular software updates.

Final thoughts

Securing your UniFi Controller is crucial for protecting the networks you manage from potential cyber threats. By following these tips, MSPs and network administrators can enhance the security posture of their UniFi deployments.

At UniHosted, we can take all of this out of your hands, so you can focus on your business. Our cloud-hosted UniFi Controller services are designed with security in mind, offering a robust platform for managing UniFi deployments while ensuring that security best practices are in place.

Feel free to give us a spin! Additionally, I'm happy to walk you through personally. You can schedule a call with me (Founder of UniHosted) here.