Trying to manage multiple, large UniFi networks spanning multiple locations can become a challenge very quickly. If you use a local on premise device hosting the UniFi controller, it is then beholden to lost connectivity, internet outages, power issues or any other problems.

The best way to run the UniFi Controller is in the cloud. Either by self-hosting which, with UniFi OS Server now supports Windows, macOS, Ubuntu and more.

With HostiFi fully managed UniFi cloud hosting, this allows IT teams to focus on managing networks rather than infrastructure.

We test the latest UniFi updates for issues, have dedicated support on hand and take regular backups. Plans start at just $9 per month and are built to scale with you.

Not sure yet? - Book a free demo with our team.

How to Host a UniFi Controller in the Cloud

There are many ways to run UniFi in the cloud. This can be achieved by going to a VPS provider like Digital Ocean, AWS or Google Cloud and spinning up the appropriate operating system. Be sure to check the minimum requirements first.

Next update the operating system and install UniFi OS Server.

Some VPS instances might require you to open required ports up. UniFi OS Server

• 8443 - UniFi Controller web interface
• 8080 - Device inform
• 3478 - STUN
• 10001 - Device Discovery
• 6789 - Speed test

Adopt UniFi Devices

Once the server is set up and working, the next step is to get your UniFi devices adopted. Log into your UniFi Access Points and switches via SSH and run the following command, replacing your-controller-ip with the IP address or domain name for your new controller.

set-inform http://your-controller-ip:8080/inform

The Downsides of Self-Hosting a UniFi Controller

Getting a new instance of the UniFi Controller up and running can be easy, but the required ongoing mainteance can be a burden.

You are responsible for:

• Server security updates
• UniFi controller upgrades
• Database maintenance
• Backups
• Monitoring uptime
• Troubleshooting performance issues

For MSPs or businesses managing many sites, maintaining this can become time-consuming.

Why Many Businesses Choose Managed UniFi Hosting

Instead of maintaining servers, many businesses have decided to use use managed UniFi controller hosting instead.

HostiFi provides fully managed UniFi cloud hosting, with expert engineer support, managed backups and rigorous testing for new UniFi updates.