Summary of Reddit Comments on Ubiquiti Unifi Dream Machine Pro

Ubiquiti Unifi Dream Machine Pro Overview

• The Unifi Dream Machine Pro (UDM Pro) is a networking device with varying opinions from Reddit users on its features and performance.

Pros and Cons of Ubiquiti Unifi Dream Machine Pro

Pros:

• Easy to manage and user-friendly interface.
• Offers features like Wireguard, OpenVPN, and L2TP for VPN.
• Good for managing UniFi network hardware, running Protect for cameras, and Access for door locks.
• Supports setting up a VPN quickly and easily with the teleport feature.
• Suitable for home environments or users looking for a reliable router/firewall.
• Can be used as an Access point controller, camera recorder, and manage UniFi network hardware.
• Can lock a specific client to a particular Access point to avoid disconnecting issues.
• Runs Protect for cameras and serves as a PoE switch and NVR for doorbells.
• Can route different VLANs through distinct ports between pfSense and UDM.

Cons:

• Some users miss the control they had with other routers like pfSense, for tasks such as NAT on internet networks, better logging, and custom DNS.
• Lack of classical routing support makes it difficult to set up and less ideal for some users.
• The UDM Pro may lack features like SNMP, LACP, STP, PoE (unless using UDMP SE), Wireguard (may require community packages), and TailScale.
• The UDM Pro may not offer as much flexibility as other options like pfSense or OPNsense.
• Limited IDS/IPS throughput capacity (~300 Mbps) can be a bottleneck for users with high-speed internet connections.

Comparison with Other Routers (e.g. pfSense, OPNsense)

• pfSense and OPNsense: Considered more capable and flexible, especially for users who want endless configurability and control over the network setup.
• UDM vs. pfSense/OPNsense: UDM Pro is more suited for an easy-to-setup and reliable home network, while pfSense/OPNsense offer deeper customization and functionality for advanced users or specific requirements.
• Advantages of UDM Pro: Good UI, easy setup, integrates well with other Ubiquiti products, and offers features like Wireguard, OpenVPN, and L2TP.
• Advantages of pfSense/OPNsense: More flexibility, control, and ability to customize the network setup based on specific requirements. Better for advanced users or those who want deeper network management capabilities.

Community Feedback Highlights

• Users switching to UDM SE, UDM Pro, or other routers based on their home lab setup, network requirements, and personal preferences.
• Preferences for pfSense, OPNsense, or UDM Pro based on ease of use, control, customizability, and integration with other devices.
• Recommendations for UDM Pro as a standalone unit or for users planning to expand into the Ubiquiti ecosystem with more devices.

Overall, the Ubiquiti Unifi Dream Machine Pro (UDM Pro) has a mix of positive feedback for its user-friendly interface, integrated features, and suitability for home environments, but users also highlight the need for more advanced features, flexibility, and control found in other router options like pfSense or OPNsense.