UniFi Network Components Overview and Guide

(Cloud Key Gen2 • UAP-AC-Mesh APs • USW-Flex PoE Switches)

This page covers all items in the WiFi Expansion Kit that operate using Ubiquiti’s UniFi Network ecosystem, including the Cloud Key controller, mesh access points, and PoE switches. These devices work together to create flexible indoor/outdoor wireless networks and to manage all parts of the kit through a centralized interface.

You will use these components to:

• Create temporary mesh WiFi networks for outdoor spaces or events.

• Extend WiFi to locations served via the NanoBeam point-to-point link.

• Test AP placement and coverage for potential permanent installations.

• Manage all UniFi networking equipment from one location.

• Monitor throughput, channel usage, interference, and client activity.

Included UniFi Components

1. UniFi Cloud Key Gen2 (UCK-G2)

Purpose: Central management controller for all UniFi devices

• Runs UniFi Network Application

• Stores configuration, logs, and performance data

• Provides a dashboard for APs, switches, and PtP radios

• Connects via Ethernet to a switch (or can be powered with PoE)

2. UniFi AC-Mesh Access Points (4 included)

Purpose: Create mesh WiFi networks indoors or outdoors

• Dual-band 2.4/5 GHz support

• Weatherproof (can be used outside)

• Can operate as:

  • Mesh repeaters

  • Wired Ethernet APs

  • Outdoor coverage extensions

Mounting:

• Can be pole-mounted, wall-mounted, or connected to the speaker stand poles included in the kit.

3. UniFi USW-Flex 5-Port Switches (2 included)

Purpose: Compact PoE switches for powering APs, NanoBeams, and other network hardware

• One PoE++ input (powered using the included 60W injectors)

• Four PoE outputs

• Weather-resistant enclosure

• Can be mounted on walls, poles, or the Rockville extension poles

4. UniFi PoE++ 60W Injectors (2 included)

Purpose: Power sources required to operate the Flex switches

• Input: Standard AC

• Output: PoE++ (60W)

• Required to run NanoBeams, APs, Cloud Key (optional), or multiple devices from one switch

How These Components Work Together

Below is the typical configuration for using these UniFi devices in the WiFi Expansion Kit:

EcoFlow Power Station

   ↓

PoE++ Injector (60W)

   ↓

USW-Flex Switch

   ↓ ↓ 

UAP-AC-M Mesh APs       NanoBeam Receiver

High-Level Function of Each Device

• Cloud Key = the “brain” (network controller)

• Flex Switch = the “power distribution hub”

• AP-Mesh = the “local WiFi coverage”

• NanoBeam = long-range link that brings the network to the remote site

Setup Instructions

1. Connect and Power the Cloud Key Gen2

1. Plug the Cloud Key into the USW-Flex switch using a short Cat6 cable.

2. The switch will power it via PoE.

3. Wait 1–2 minutes for the status light to turn solid white.

4. On a phone, tablet, or laptop connected to the same network:

   • Open a browser and go to unifi.ui.com

   • Log in using the credentials in the kit

   • Select "Cloud Key" and open the UniFi Network dashboard

2. Set Up the USW-Flex Switch

1. Connect the PoE++ injector to AC power (EcoFlow for remote testing).

2. Connect the injector’s PoE++ Out port to the Flex switch PoE In port.

3. The switch should light up—this confirms it’s powered.

4. Use ports 2–5 to connect:

   • Access Points

   • NanoBeam receiver

   • Cloud Key (optional but recommended)

3. Deploying UniFi Mesh Access Points

Option A: Wired APs (recommended when possible)

1. Run a Cat6 cable from the Flex switch to the AP.

2. The AP will power up automatically.

3. In the UniFi dashboard:

   • Select “Devices”

   • Click the AP

   • Choose Adopt

Option B: Wireless Mesh APs

1. Power on the AP next to an already-adopted AP.

2. The AP will connect wirelessly and appear in the dashboard.

3. Select Adopt and wait for provisioning.

4. Move the AP to the testing location (within mesh range).

4. Recommended AP Placement

• For outdoor programs: mount AP high on the tripod stand

• For mesh extension: place AP halfway between main network and remote area

• For point coverage: aim AP toward the target area, 8–12 ft high

• Avoid:

  • Mounting on or near metal

  • Placing APs behind brick or concrete

  • Putting APs on the ground

  • Overlapping APs on the same channel

Network Management Tasks

Use the Cloud Key dashboard to:

Monitor Network Health

• Device signal strength

• Mesh link quality

• Throughput (upload/download)

• Connected clients

• AP coverage areas

• Channel interference

Modify SSID Settings

• Create temporary SSIDs for public testing

• Hide SSIDs when experimenting

• Configure WPA2 passwords

• Enable/disable guest policies

Update Firmware

• Only update if you have stable power

• Updates may take 2–5 minutes

• Avoid updating during active field tests

Troubleshooting

AP Not Appearing in Dashboard

• Ensure AP is powered (solid or blinking LED)

• Reboot the AP

• Confirm the Cloud Key is online

• Check the Flex switch PoE output settings (enable PoE on that port)

Mesh AP Has Poor Performance

• Reduce distance to the primary AP

• Raise AP higher on tripod

• Avoid obstructions like trees, metal siding, or brick

• Change channel via Cloud Key (Auto mode often works well)

Switch Not Powering Devices

• Ensure you are using the PoE++ (60W) injector (not standard PoE)

• Try a different Cat6 cable

• Check if the Flex switch LED lights are on

• Reduce number of high-power devices on the switch

Safety Notes

• Do not use APs or switches in heavy rain—weather-resistant ≠ waterproof

• Keep PoE injectors and Cloud Key protected from moisture

• Secure tripod stands to prevent tipping

• Never mount APs near electrical lines

• Do not exceed 325 ft (100 meters) per Ethernet cable run