Create a Raspberry Pi UniFi Controller
Introduction
There are many methods you can use to install the UniFi Controller onto a Raspberry Pi, but UniFiPi is by far the easiest. It only takes a couple of minutes and is very user friendly. The UniFi Controller software runs the UniFi network setup and diagnostic information. It can be run on your PC, a dedicated device (a raspberry pi), or you can just get a Ubiquiti Cloud Key.
If you choose to keep the controller running after network setup, it will run in the background and collect network data that you can access via the controller or the app. Installing the controller on a raspberry pi is a great set and forget method of being able to access your UniFi Controller at any time. It can also save you some money over the Ubiquiti made Cloud Keys that are available.
If you’re new to home networking, you know it can be challenging or intimidating to newcomers. There are many different devices and systems available and it can get overwhelming. Ubiquiti’s UniFi system is a popular choice when first getting started. Ubiquiti’s system is touted as a great ‘prosumer’ option, meaning it has many professional level functions available, but is ultimately priced and designed for the general public.
Generally, the UniFi system works by utilizing 4 main devices.
- The UniFi Controller
- The USG
- A Switch
- An AP
This guide will cover how to install the UniFi Controller onto a Raspberry Pi. The other 3 devices are covered in more detail in the Ubiquiti Unifi Network Setup Guide.
Supplies
Hardware and Peripherals
Software
- Etcher
- Unzip Software
- UniFiPi
Prepare Your Raspberry Pi
- Head over to UniFiPi.com to download the UniFiPi software. The process will mirror buying something. You will need to add it to your cart and proceed to purchase. The software is available for free, however, please support the project.
- After downloading the software, extract (unzip) the file.
- Insert the SD card into your computer.
- Open Etcher and select the UniFiPi Image and the SD card and click Flash!
- The SD card will unmount automatically after the image is flashed and verified.
- Insert the SD card into your Raspberry Pi while it is unplugged.
Conclusion
Your Raspberry Pi is now prepped to become your UniFi Controller. When you begin the next steps in setting up the rest of your UniFi network, you will plug in the Pi and the installation will finish. After that you will be able to access the UniFi Controller software. After you finish setting up your network, you should go back to UniFiPi.com. There are a lot more things to learn about using your UniFiPi like learning how to change your default password and how to set up Pi-Hole.
Alternatives
If you’re more interested in a ready to use UniFi Controller, there are a few options available to you. You can opt for one of 3 UniFi Cloud Keys or you can utilize the new Unified Dream Machine (UDM). The Unified Dream Machine combines the UniFi Controller, USG, Switch, and AP into one single device.
Extra Help
Did you find an error or need some extra support? Please reach out in the comments and I will do my best to help!
-Alex
I current run the network software on my PC, so I don’t have full time monitoring and logging and I never felt the cost of a cloud key or other Ubiquiti management box was worth the cost. Interested in this Rasberry Pi based solution.
Is there a way as part of the setup to transfer the settings I already have for my PC over to the Rasberry Pi?
Yes, you can! There’s an export feature. This should get you going in the right direction.
https://help.cloudunifi.com/unifi/migrating-sites-with-site-export-wizard/