Large Property Wireless
Most consumer grade wireless AP's (access point)/routers** are simply inadequate for today's large homes and ranches. Adding additional consumer/box store grade AP's to the mix is not the answer for a high speed, roaming network. Below are a couple of preferences to ensure top-notch wireless networking.
First Preference
Assuming one AP is not quite enough to provide adequate coverage, here is a fast, affordable, and the most scalable option:
| Description | Price | Qty | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Two or more Ubiquiti UAP Pro | ~$160 | 2 | ~$320 |
| One Ubiquiti Cloud Key | ~$105 | 1 | ~$105 |
| POE Ubiquiti Edgeswitch * | ~$270 | 1 | ~$270 |
| Misc cabling *** | ~$75 | 1 | ~$75 |
| Total Material Cost (markup included) | ~$770 | ||
A couple of notes for this configuration:
- Ubiquiti is, arguably, an Enterprise performance system; optimized for scalability, reliability and performance
- A cloud key is not required. These AP's are software controlled and there needs to be a computer available to host the software. Preferably a stable PC. Layer 3 configurations are also possible for those who have access to cloud servers (e.g AWS EC2).
- There are cheaper (and sometimes better) POE (Power Over Ethernet) switches available. Mating the AP's with the same manufacturer simplifies support of the managed system.
- These AP's are powered by POE, there is no separate power supply available. If running Cat6 is not possible, consider second preference.
Second Preference
Engenious products are also a nice alternative to Ubiquiti's products. The one upside to these AP's is that they can be used with a separate power supply for those locations unable to be powered POE. The downside is that they are not centrally managed. If the home is borderline one AP versus implementing two, then this option may be the one to consider.
| Description | Price | Qty | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engenious ECB 1750 | ~$220 | 1 | ~$220 |
| CISCO SYSTEMS 8-Port PoE Gigabit Desktop Switch * | ~$156 | 1 | ~$156 |
| Misc cabling *** | ~$75 | 1 | ~$75 |
| Total Material Cost (markup included) | ~$450 | ||
General Notes
* Although both scenarios suggest a POE switch, they are not completely necessary. POE injectors are available for under $15 and provide the same power to a unit. If all you require is one AP to power, and a Gigabyte switch is already available, then a single injector is probably the most cost efficient means. The reason for suggesting POE switches lies in scaling. Adding another device, whether it be an AP, or even an IP camera, makes it easy to get it up and running without the worry of another injector to purchase.
** These units suggested are also just Access Points, they do not provide any routing. You must still keep your existing router (or provide a new one if this is a new installation). Disabling the wireless on your existing wireless is suggested as well.
***If you are a builder, and think that just because everything is wireless, there is no need to run Cat 6e wiring, think again. Camera's, access points, and even home sensors/gadgets (Internet of Things) are here to stay for quite some time.