Concepts
How to choose a UniFi installer: what to ask before hiring
By IPProtec · · 6 min read
Quick answer
To choose a UniFi installer, check that they design before quoting, wire the access points, provide an itemised quote, document the installation, leave the credentials and account in the client's name and offer support afterwards. The devices are the same in any offer: the difference is the method.
Two quotes with the same UniFi devices can give very different results. A badly placed access point or an unsegmented network will work, but not as it should. These questions help tell a project apart from a sale of boxes.
1. Do they design before quoting?
A serious quote starts from floor plans or a visit: floor area, storeys, materials, outdoor areas, number of users and where cable can run. If you get a fixed price without anyone asking about the building, the number of access points is a guess.
2. Do they wire the access points?
The basis of a professional WiFi network is that every access point reaches a PoE switch by cable. Wireless links between access points are a resource for specific cases, not the default design. Ask how each device will be connected and who does the cabling.
3. Is the quote itemised?
Devices (with model), cabling, labour and configuration should be shown separately. A single overall price makes it impossible to compare offers or know what you are paying for.
4. What configuration is included?
- Separate networks for internal use, guests and devices such as cameras or smart-home equipment.
- Firewall rules between those networks.
- Channel and power settings for each access point, not factory defaults.
- Automatic configuration backups.
- Update policy: who does them and when.
5. Who owns the system at the end?
This is the question most often forgotten. The administration account, passwords and configuration should be left in the client's name. If the installer keeps the only access, changing supplier or regaining control later becomes difficult.
6. What documentation do they hand over?
- Network diagram and device locations.
- List of labelled outlets and ports.
- Configured networks and what each one is for.
- Credentials and access details.
- Results of the final coverage checks.
7. Do they check the result?
At the end, coverage should be measured in the agreed areas and roaming between access points tested. If there are cameras or access control, recording, alerts and door opening are verified with the client present.
8. And afterwards?
Ask how incidents are handled, whether optional maintenance exists and what it includes, and what happens with a faulty device. A network is updated and expanded for years: it helps to know who you will be talking to.
About certifications
Ubiquiti offers training and certifications for technicians. They are a sign of knowledge, but they do not replace the questions above: what determines the result is that the project is designed, documented and verified.
Warning signs
| Sign | What it usually means |
|---|---|
| A quote without seeing plans or asking about the building | No design: the number of devices is an estimate |
| "A couple of repeaters will fix it" | Cabling, the basis of the network, is being avoided |
| Overall price with no device models | You cannot compare or verify what was installed |
| No mention of separate networks | Factory configuration: everything on one network |
| The installer keeps the administration account | Total dependence on that supplier |
FAQ
Can I buy the devices myself and hire only the installation?
It is possible, but whoever installs should validate the device list first: missing PoE ports, power or a suitable outdoor model are common.
Is a local installer better?
For the physical installation and visits, yes: cabling, measurements and on-site incidents require travel. Management and part of the support are done remotely.