Network design
Which UniFi console to choose: Express, Cloud Gateway or Dream Machine
By IPProtec · · 6 min read
Quick answer
A UniFi console is chosen according to network size, required security throughput, whether it must record cameras (and with how many disks), WAN/LAN ports and speeds, and whether integrated WiFi makes sense. Compact ones suit homes and small businesses; rack ones, businesses and projects with many cameras.
What to look at
- Number of devices and users.
- Throughput with IDS/IPS enabled versus your line speed.
- Camera recording: whether it has a drive bay and how many.
- Ports: WAN speed, number of ports and whether they're PoE.
- Integrated WiFi or not.
Current ranges (indicative)
| Range | Examples | Fits |
|---|---|---|
| Integrated WiFi | UniFi Express 7, Dream Router 7 | Flats and small homes |
| Compact | Cloud Gateway Ultra, Max, Fiber | Large homes, villas, small offices |
| Rack | Dream Machine Pro, SE, Pro Max | Offices, businesses, many cameras |
| Enterprise | Enterprise Fortress Gateway | Large networks and multiple sites |
If you'll have many cameras
Moving recording to a dedicated NVR (UNVR) frees the console and lets storage grow.