UC-CK cloud key

Purchased to connect three UBNT devices together (two lite ACs and a Security router). It's really straight forward to set-up, as long as everything works as expected and you've methodically thought out each step.However, in my experience, getting to that point requires that you try and fail 5 times to set-it-up first. Pro-tip is to read the forums and guides first, connect the router first, and then connect the cloud Key, then the Wi-Fi and set-up all in one room with a computer handy.The good news is that it, and the other UBNT devices, creates a robust network that surpasses other single unit devices (in my case replacing an Apple Airport Extreme).Whilst you don't need the Cloud Key for a good network (you can use a web key instead), I like the power of local control.** Pros **- Very reliable- Lots of control on offer for your network- Small device footprinnt- Low power footprint- Includes power over Ethernet adapter- Includes SD card for back-ups- Software is robust and regularly updated- Easy to factory reset if you screw it up** Cons **- Requires patience and consideration to set-up- power plug is unsightly and awkward (better to have a powered switch for PoE)** Overall **Very glad I invested into UBNT and this Cloud Key, but wish I'd spent more time reading and preparing before stepping off the deep end.

Having recently started using Ubiquiti equipment, including an EdgeRouter X and 2 UniFi AC APs, this felt like an essential part of the Wireless set up and my next logical purchase.I initially installed the UniFi controller software on my PC which was great for setting up the access points etc. but I didn't want to leave my PC running 24/7 just to capture usage statistics of my Wirelress network! I also can't say I was really a fan of having the UniFi controller software installed on my PC and I prefer if the management is on a dedicated device for networking equipment.This UniFi Cloud Key has taken care of the management server issue by running a dedicated UniFi controller on what is essentially a mini PC. The device is very small and compact and seems to do the trick perfectly. It is a somewhat unusual design and doesn't really look like a network device, more like a small laptop charger.The mini network cable that came with it wasn't particularly flexible if you wanted to tuck the Cloud Key out of the way. I suspect that cable would work better if you were connecting the Cloud Key to a UniFi Passive PoE switch. Mine is connected to a Cisco SG300-10 switch which it works perfectly with it and allows me to trunk various VLANs for my different SSIDs.I have powered my UniFi Cloud Key using a USB cable connected to a Synology NAS and I've had no issues. The Cloud Key runs cool when connected via USB so perhaps it runs hot when connected via PoE (something other users have observed)?It really feels that Ubiquiti are trying to get you to buy into the whole UniFi product range with the UniFi controller software. Despite me only having UniFi access points, all of the GUI options and pages are still enabled for the UniFi switches and Security Gateway which makes for a slightly cluttered and confusing interface. I just ignore all of those things and just use the WiFi part but it would be really good if I could turn off or hide the components I don't have!

I'm a fan of Unifi products, the quality is great and functionality is superior compared to most home-focused wifi products. The only challenge is setting them up (I found the switch and access points easy to install, the other products were a bit more challenging!).So... Unifi networks are managed by a "controller". This is a piece of software that usually sits on a computer (e.g. PC/Mac) that tracks statistics, allows system configuration, user administration, etc. You don't have to run it continuously but if you wanted to track network usage statistics then you'll need to keep it running. The controller software is accessed via a webpage (I used the same machine for both).This Cloud Controller device effectively runs that software for you. It's PoE so powered by the Unifi switch (if you have the PoE version, else you'll probably need a PoE adapter). Once up and running, you'll need to install by closely following the user guide on the Unifi website. This is REALLY important. I missed a step out and had to start again! (The instructions are quite straightforward, just don't rush through them and miss anything!).To set up the controller you will need a computer (if using a Mac then you'll need to install the Chrome browser as that has the functionality to detect the Cloud Controller on your software). From that point onwards you will access your network setup by a web browser (can be anyway, you don't have to be on your network). You sign into the to Unifi website via your browser which in turns connects to your Cloud Controller and - hey presto - you can access your network settings. You can use 2 factor authentication (which I strongly recommend) to add an extra layer of access control to the Cloud Controller.It's worth noting that Unifi also have a good app (I used the iPhone one) which also accesses the Cloud Controller and provides a surprising strong toolset.The Cloud Controller also has some storage (it comes with a small memory card) which can be used to store configuration backups as well as logifles, statistics, etc.Overall I'm really happy with mine, it's meant that I don't need to switch on my computer any more - just use my phone to connect and manage the network.Overall highly recommended!For those who want further detail: I'm using a BT broadband smart hub, Unifi switch with some PoE ports and 2x Unifi Access Points. Next step is to get the USG running which will be an entirely different challenge!