Ubiquiti UniFi Dream Machine product image

Ubiquiti UniFi Dream Machine

Nerd Approved:
(5/5)
Review by Joshua Morris on
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Review

The original UniFi Dream Machine is still a killer all-in-one gateway for homelabs and small offices. It packages a UniFi controller, 4-port gigabit switch, 802.11ac Wave 2 access point, and security gateway into a single dome that’s easy to tuck on a shelf. I run multiple VLANs (prod, homelab, IoT, guest), WireGuard VPN, and IPS/IDS and the UDM handles gigabit WAN without breaking a sweat. UniFi’s Network application gives me per-device stats, client history, and topology at a glance, and the mobile app makes remote access painless. If you need Wi-Fi 6 or 10GbE uplinks, the UDM SE is the upgrade, but for most homes and startups, the Dream Machine remains a fantastic plug-and-play UniFi experience.

✓ Pros

  • ✓Integrated UniFi controller, security gateway, AP, and switch
  • ✓Easy VLAN, VPN, and IPS setup via UniFi Network
  • ✓Quiet, compact design fits in living spaces

✗ Cons

  • ✗Stuck on Wi-Fi 5—no Wi-Fi 6 without upgrading
  • ✗Four LAN ports may require an extra switch for larger setups

Specifications

Cpu1.7 GHz Quad-Core ARM
Memory2 GB RAM
Switch4 x Gigabit LAN
Wifi802.11ac Wave 2 (4x4)
SecurityIPS/IDS up to 850 Mbps, VPN up to 850 Mbps
Date First AvailableNovember 13, 2019

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