How do you plan a UniFi network for a new home?
Plan the cable before the equipment. Decide an equipment location, run Cat6 to one ceiling location per floor for access points, two drops behind each TV and desk, a cable to each camera position, and conduit to any detached structure. With that in place, the UniFi hardware choice becomes easy and changeable later.
Specify these before drywall
A ventilated interior equipment location — a closet or laundry wall, not the attic and not a sealed cabinet — with power and the ISP service entry nearby.
One ceiling stub per floor for an access point, plus one exterior location for outdoor coverage. Camera runs to each entry point and driveway view. Two drops at every TV, desk and office wall. A spare pull string in any long wall run.
Sizing the equipment
Count your drops, add cameras, and buy a PoE switch with room to spare — a 16-port switch on a 10-drop house is cheap insurance. Gateway choice follows your internet speed and whether you want Protect cameras recording locally.
Leave the exact models until closer to completion. Cable is permanent; hardware is a shopping decision.
Best for
Homeowners specifying low voltage before drywall.
Things to consider
- Ceiling stubs are the hardest thing to add later
- Equipment location needs ventilation
- Hardware choices can wait
What we recommend
Lock the cable plan early and choose the gateway, switch and access points near completion.