How to install UniFi Controller on Windows

If you are looking to install your UniFi Controller on Windows, you've come to the right place. In the article below, I walk you through how to do this step by step. We also created a video in which our own Fernando goes through the installation.

Lets dive in!

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🚨 Before we dive in, please don't host your UniFi Controller on windows if you work with clients. Sooner or later this will cause issues! It's fine for home users, but definitely not recommended for businesses. If you need secure, reliable and a scalable hosting solution check out UniHosted.

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Table of Contents

• Explainer video
• The UniFi Controller
• Downloading the UniFi Controller Software
• Installing the UniFi Controller
• Initial Setup of the UniFi Controller
• Post-Installation Tips
• Final Thoughts

Explainer video

In this video our own Fernando shows exactly how to install your UniFi Controller on Windows. If you prefer to a written guide continue below:

The UniFi Controller

Let's start at the start. The UniFi Controller is a software application from Ubiquiti that allows you to manage your UniFi network devices from a single interface. Installing it on Windows brings the network management capabilities on your desktop

Before beginning the installation, please make sure your Windows machine meets the following requirements:

• A compatible version of Windows (Windows 7, 8, 10, or later).
• Sufficient RAM and storage for smooth operation (at least 2GB of RAM and 20GB of free disk space).
• A network connection for downloading the software and managing devices.

Downloading the UniFi Controller Software

1. Visit the Ubiquiti Website: Go to the download page here.
2. Select the Software: Choose the UniFi Controller software version for your Windows version.
3. Download the Installer: Click the download link and save the installer file to your machine.

Installing the UniFi Controller

1. Run the Installer: Double-click the downloaded installer file to start the installation process.
2. Follow the Installation Wizard: The wizard will guide you through the setup. Accept the license agreement, choose the installation folder, and configure any necessary settings.
3. Complete the Installation: Once the installation is complete, click 'Finish.' The UniFi Controller software will launch automatically in your default web browser.

Initial Setup of the UniFi Controller

Alright, almost there. Here is how the initial setup of the UniFi Controller works

1. Access the Controller: The first time you open the UniFi Controller, it will ask you to set up your controller.
2. Create an Admin Account: Set up an admin username and password. This account will be used to manage your UniFi devices.
3. Configure the Network Settings: Follow the on-screen instructions to configure basic network settings, such as country and timezone etc.
4. Adopt UniFi Devices: If you have UniFi devices on your network, the Controller will detect them. You can then adopt and configure these devices through the Controller interface.

Post-Installation Tips

• Update Firmware: Make sure that your UniFi devices are running the latest firmware for optimal performance with the Controller. This is also important for security reasons. Running your controller on an outdated version can be open for exploits. At UniHosted, we make sure you're always on the right version running your network at peak performance.

• Secure Your Network: Implement strong passwords and consider enabling two-factor authentication for added security.

Final Thoughts

Installing the UniFi Controller on a Windows machine is a great step for better network management. Just note that Windows is not the only option. There are multiple ways to host your UniFi Controller. At UniHosted, we provide a managed hosting solution to take this off your plate.

Check it out if you don't want the hassle of installing, updating and securing your network yourself. We offer fully managed UniFi Controllers with automatic backups, worry-free SSL setup, and support.

Feel free to give it a try. If you would like me to personally walk you through UniHosted, you can schedule a call with me here.