UniFi Guest Network with Captive Portal

The speaker, Chris, introduces the video by explaining that it will be different from the usual content, focusing on a specific client setup. He outlines the process he follows when setting up a system for a new client, starting with a drawing and adjusting it as needed. The project involves a simple UniFi install for a Motel 6 in Seaside, Oregon, where he will be setting up a guest wireless network using existing equipment. Chris emphasizes problem-solving and transparency throughout the process.

Chris details the client's existing network setup, including the internet connection and internal land. He explains his choice to use two UAP AC Pros for the installation and the decision not to use a USG due to the client's requirements. The setup involves a LAN port from the existing router and a DHCP IP address. Chris also discusses the UniFi controller setup, including the choice of an Amazon AWS-based unified controller and the configuration of the site for Motel 6, with specific settings and preferences.

The video transitions to the physical setup of the hardware, including the USG, a VLAN, and the US plug. Chris explains the process of wiring the USG to his network and the importance of the boot-up process. He also covers the computer setup for configuration, the use of the command prompt for IP address confirmation, and the initial issues encountered with the unified controller connection, which he resolves through SSH.

Chris discusses the adoption process of the USG and the Unify Switch 860W, including the use of the set-inform command and the challenges faced during the process. He explains the adoption status, the need for a second inform command, and the provisioning status. The video also covers the setup of the Unify Switch 860W, the IP address assignment, and the persistent ping test for internet connectivity.

The speaker moves on to the configuration of the access points, including the process of plugging them in, factory resetting, and adoption. He discusses the importance of labeling equipment and the configuration of the wireless network. Chris sets up a user group for bandwidth limitation, applies guest policies, and customizes the captive portal with a specific password and expiration time. He also addresses the issue of what happens if the access point cannot connect to the unified controller or the captive portal.

Chris delves into the customization of the guest portal using the new AngularJS templates. He sets up the title, welcome text, and positions them above the login boxes. He also discusses the selection of a custom logo and background image, as well as the adjustment of text and button colors for visibility and branding. The speaker then tests the captive portal on his phone, noting the delay in authentication and the successful redirection to the Motel 6 webpage.

The speaker identifies issues with the captive portal's authentication process and the latency introduced by the cloud-hosted controller. He discusses the impact on user experience and presents a solution by introducing a local UniFi controller, the Cloud Key, to address the problem. Chris explains the process of factory resetting the equipment and setting up the network again using the Cloud Key. He tests the setup and notes improvements in the authentication process.

In the final segment, Chris emphasizes the importance of thorough documentation and clear labeling for the client. He shows the labeling of the boxes and the network diagram he prepared. Additionally, he demonstrates the use of an infrared thermometer to measure the operating temperatures of the devices, providing an extra layer of detail for the client's understanding of the setup.