Question 1

What is a UniFi Cloud Key and what does it do?

Accepted Answer

The UniFi Cloud Key is a powerful device that provides centralized management for your UniFi network. It runs the UniFi Controller software, allowing you to manage all your UniFi devices, such as access points, switches, and security gateways, from a single interface. With the Cloud Key, you can log into your network from anywhere in the world via a secure connection. This means you can monitor performance, troubleshoot issues, and make configuration changes remotely, providing convenience and flexibility for network management. It also automatically backs up your network configurations and settings, ensuring that you can easily restore your network in case of hardware failure or other issues.

Question 2

What is a UniFi Security Gateway and what does it do?

Accepted Answer

The UniFi Security Gateway (USG) is a robust network device designed to provide comprehensive security for your network. It acts as a firewall, router, and VPN server, protecting your network from external threats while managing and routing traffic efficiently. This ensures your network remains secure and performs optimally.In addition, with a UniFi Security Gateway, you can manage and prioritize network traffic using Quality of Service (QoS) settings. This ensures that critical applications, such as VoIP and video conferencing, receive the necessary bandwidth for optimal performance.

Question 3

Choosing Between a Cloud Key and a Gateway?

Accepted Answer

When deciding between a Cloud Key and a Gateway, consider your primary needs. A UniFi Cloud Key offers centralized management, making it easy to configure and oversee all your UniFi devices. Conversely, a UniFi Security Gateway provides essential security features like firewall protection, VPN services, and traffic management. Evaluate your specific use cases and requirements to determine whether a Cloud Key or Gateway is more suitable. If your primary need is to manage multiple UniFi devices easily, go for a UniFi Cloud Key. If your focus is on securing your network with advanced firewall and VPN capabilities, opt for a UniFi Security Gateway. For a balanced approach, integrating both devices offers the best of both worlds.

Question 4

Can I use a UniFi Security Gateway and with other third-party network equipment?

Accepted Answer

While the UniFi Security Gateway works well with third-party network equipment, some advanced features like seamless integration and unified management are best realized within the UniFi ecosystem. However, the USG's core functions—such as firewall protection, VPN, and QoS—will still enhance your network's security and performance, regardless of the brand of your other devices.

Question 5

Can I use a UniFi Cloud Key with a third-party cloud management platform?

Accepted Answer

The UniFi Cloud Key is specifically designed to work within the UniFi ecosystem, running the UniFi Controller software to manage all your UniFi devices. While it excels in this role, it does not natively support integration with third-party cloud management platforms. For seamless and unified management, it is best to use the Cloud Key with UniFi devices. If you require integration with a third-party cloud management platform, consider using a network management solution that supports a wider range of devices.

Question 6

Can I use a UniFi Security Gateway or Cloud Key to block specific websites or content?

Accepted Answer

The UniFi Security Gateway can be configured to block specific websites or content through custom firewall rules. In the UniFi Controller, navigate to the firewall settings and create rules that specify which websites or content categories to block. While, The UniFi Cloud Key itself does not directly block websites or content, as it is primarily a management device running the UniFi Controller software. However, it allows you to configure and manage the UniFi Security Gateway, where you can set up the necessary firewall rules and content filtering policies to achieve this functionality.

Ubiquiti Cloud Keys & Gateways