UniFi teleport secure remote access setup
Published onby Iron (edited on )
Imagine accessing your home or office network from anywhere in the world with just a few taps on your phone. Sounds good, right? That's where UniFi Teleport comes in. It's a secure, fast, and hassle-free way to access your network remotely without the pain of setting up a traditional VPN.
Let's dive in!

Table of Contents
- What is UniFi Teleport?
- Why Use UniFi Teleport?
- What You'll Need
- How to Set Up UniFi Teleport
- Use Cases for UniFi Teleport
- Troubleshooting Tips
- Security Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Why We Love It
- Final Thoughts
What is UniFi Teleport?
UniFi Teleport is a remote access VPN tool baked into the UniFi Dream Machines (UDM, UDM Pro, UDR) and other UniFi gateways. Unlike traditional VPNs, which require port forwarding, configuring, and troubleshooting, UniFi Teleport is simple.
With just a link, you can connect your devices to your home or office network, browse the internet securely, and access local network resources, like printers, security cameras, or file servers.
Why Use UniFi Teleport?
Here’s why you’ll love Teleport:
- One-click access: Share a link with your family, friends, or yourself, and you’re in.
- No port forwarding: No complicated network configurations or exposure to hackers.
- Secure connection: Encrypted end-to-end communication.
- Access everything: Connect to home security cameras, printers, and other devices remotely.
- Use on mobile or desktop: Works with iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS devices.
What You'll Need
To get started, you'll need a few essentials:
- UniFi Console (like the UniFi Dream Machine, Dream Router, or UDM Pro) running UniFi OS.
- UniFi Network app (iOS or Android) to configure and manage Teleport.
- UI Account (You can create one at ui.com).
- Internet connection (Obviously).
- Latest firmware on your UniFi Console.
Pro Tip: Hosting your UniFi controller on a platform like UniHosted makes this process even smoother. With UniHosted, updates and backups are managed for you, ensuring that Teleport works as intended.
How to Set Up UniFi Teleport
Step 1: Update Your UniFi Console
Make sure your console firmware is up to date.
- Log in to your UniFi Console.
- Go to Settings → System.
- Look for the option to Check for Updates.
- If an update is available, click Update.
Why? UniFi constantly rolls out new features and security patches. Running an old version could mean missing key features of Teleport.
Step 2: Enable Remote Management
You need to enable remote management to use Teleport.
- Go to Settings → System.
- Look for the option Remote Access.
- Toggle it on. You may be asked to log in to your UI Account.
Why? Remote access allows you to manage your network and devices via the UniFi app from anywhere.
Step 3: Turn On Teleport
Time to enable Teleport.
- Open the UniFi Network app (iOS/Android).
- Go to Settings → Teleport & VPN.
- Look for the option to enable UniFi Teleport and turn it on.
Heads Up: If this option is grayed out, ensure you’ve enabled Remote Access and your UniFi Console is up to date.
Step 4: Send a Teleport Link
This is where the magic happens. You can generate a link that allows anyone (or just you) to access your network remotely.
- Open the UniFi Network app.
- Go to Teleport & VPN.
- Click Create a Teleport Link.
- Choose how you want to share the link (via email, text, QR code, etc.).
- Share it with the person (or yourself) who needs access.
How does it work? When someone clicks the link, it connects their device to your home network through an encrypted VPN connection. No passwords, no fuss.
Step 5: Connect via Teleport
The recipient of the Teleport link (could be you) must do the following:
- Click the link on your phone, laptop, or desktop.
- If prompted, download the UniFi VPN app or UniFi Network app for iOS or Android.
- Tap Connect when the app opens.
That’s it. You’re connected to your home network from anywhere in the world.
Tip: Keep the link secure. Anyone with the link can connect to your network. If you suspect the link is compromised, you can revoke it at any time from your UniFi app.
Use Cases for UniFi Teleport
Here’s where Teleport really shines:
- Remote Work: Connect to your home or office network and access shared drives, printers, and devices.
- Travelers: Safely browse the internet in airports, hotels, or coffee shops with encrypted traffic.
- Family Support: Share access with family members so they can troubleshoot issues remotely.
- Stream Region-Locked Content: Watch your home country’s content while abroad.
Troubleshooting Tips
If things don’t go smoothly, here are some tips:
- Update Your Firmware: Older versions of UniFi OS might not support Teleport.
- Check Remote Management: Make sure Remote Management is enabled in your UniFi Console.
- Check Internet Connection: No internet? No connection.
- Restart Devices: Power cycle your console, app, and phone if connections fail.
- Check Your UniFi Account: Ensure your UI Account is active and linked to your UniFi Console.
If you’re still stuck, UniHosted can simplify the hosting process by ensuring your network is always up-to-date and accessible.
Security Tips
Since UniFi Teleport is powerful, security is key.
- Keep the link secure: Only share it with people you trust.
- Set an expiration date: If possible, create links that expire after use.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for your UI Account.
- Monitor active sessions: Check who's connected via the UniFi Network app.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is UniFi Teleport free? Yes, it’s included for free with UniFi OS on supported consoles.
2. How does it differ from a traditional VPN? No port forwarding. No third-party software. It’s faster, simpler, and safer.
3. Can I limit access? Yes, you control who gets the link, and you can revoke it anytime.
4. Is my data encrypted? Yes, UniFi Teleport uses strong end-to-end encryption.
5. Does UniFi Teleport affect my internet speed? No, it’s fast because it uses peer-to-peer connectivity when possible.
Why We Love It
UniFi Teleport makes VPNs fun. No more router configs. No more port forwarding. With one click, you’re connected to your home network from anywhere in the world.
If you're a power user or IT admin managing multiple sites, UniHosted can make this process even more painless. With UniHosted, you get managed backups, updates, and support—all in one place.
Final Thoughts
Gone are the days of configuring VPNs, dealing with port forwarding, and cursing your router at 2 a.m. UniFi Teleport changes everything. It's simple, fast, and most importantly—secure. With a click of a link, you’re connected to your home or office network from anywhere.
Need an easier way to manage your UniFi network? We at UniHosted can help. If you would like me to personally walk you through UniHosted, you can schedule a call with me here.
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