Youtube Reviews
Key Points:
- The Cloud Key Gen 2 Plus, introduced several years ago, has expanded its functionality beyond the initial offerings of the Network and Protect applications.
- Despite rumors of battery issues, some users have not experienced them, but it's advisable to be aware of the potential issue.
- The device features Bluetooth-powered console setup, 802.3af PoE or USB-C power, a built-in battery for safe shutdown, a 1TB hard drive upgradeable to 5TB, and a front panel for mounting in a rack accessory.
- In addition to Network and Protect, the Cloud Key Gen 2 Plus can now run Access, Talk, and UID applications.
- It is compatible with the UXG and USG series routers and supports multi-site management.
- The device's suitability depends on factors such as camera resolution, the number of applications being run, and the desired hard drive capacity.
- Talk application installation requires at least two UniFi phones, highlighting the need for additional devices to fully utilize this functionality.
- The Cloud Key Gen 2 Plus remains a valuable and relevant device in the UniFi ecosystem, especially for users opting for the UXG Pro or USG series routers and seeking flexibility in running multiple applications.
Key Pointers
Purpose of the Cloud Key Gen 2 Plus:
- Hardware controller for UniFi network, protect, and access platforms
- Manages access points, protect cameras, and access control systems
- Remote access and management through a single pane of glass
Specifications:
- One terabyte HDD (spinning disc)
- Power via PoE or USB-C
- Access to network, protect, and access control applications
Unboxing and Rackmount Kit Setup:
- Remove sticker from back to expose gold teeth
- Slide open rack mount kit and insert cloud key (gold teeth facing up)
- Connect cloud key to PoE switch for power
Software Setup:
- Use a web browser to access the cloud key's UI
- Create a UniFi account and log in
- Configure network, protect, and access (if desired)
- Set up update schedule and backup schedule
- Adjust console settings (remote access, SSH, static IP)
Adoption of UniFi Devices:
- Factory reset access points and adopt them to the cloud key
- Provision wireless networks and manage network infrastructure
Administration:
- Monitor system performance (storage, logs)
- Set alarms for critical events (e.g., hard drive failure)
- Create backups and set backup schedule
- Restart, shutdown, or factory reset the cloud key
Benefits:
- Centralized management of UniFi network and security devices
- Remote access and configuration from anywhere
- Simplified setup and adoption process
- Suitable for small to medium businesses and home office deployments
Key Points:
Hardware:
- Sturdy construction and compact design
- Easy hard drive removal for upgrades
- PoE (Power over Ethernet) compatible
- Battery backup for graceful shutdowns during power outages
- Silent operation with SSD drive
- Aluminum body dissipates heat effectively
Software:
- Unify Network and Unify Protect software included
- Easy-to-use interface with live camera view and playback
- Support for up to 20 Unified Protect cameras
- Survives firmware updates without issues
- Supports only Unified cameras (ecosystem-locked)
- Storage includes internal eMMC and expandable via micro SD card
- Runs Linux operating system with APT package management
- Automatic security updates enabled
Features:
- Ideal for small businesses and home offices with a few cameras
- Simple and automated system for local camera recording and management
- All-in-one solution eliminates the need for external hosting or VM management
- PoE compatibility for easy power and data connection
- Silent operation and small form factor for convenient placement on shelves or in racks
Limitations:
- Limited camera support (up to 20)
- Supports only Unified cameras
- Some features (e.g., cool Spinney circle) not available in Unify Video software with Unified Protect cameras
- No SSH access for advanced configuration or troubleshooting
Key Pointers:
-
Unifi Cloud Key issues:
- Intermittent failure to load
- Slow loading times
- Frequent freezing
- Difficulty accessing devices remotely
-
Potential causes:
- Insufficient processing power for the number of cameras (exceeding the recommended 20)
- Memory issues
- Suboptimal firmware
- Unstable internet connection when accessing remotely
-
Proposed solution:
- Upgrade to the Unifi Dream Machine Pro (UDM Pro), which offers more processing power and features
Key Pointers from the Video:
- Gen 2 Cloud Key:
- Improved specs: quad-core, 2GB RAM, 16GB storage (8GB for older version)
- Gigabit Ethernet port
- Passive PoE (802.3af/48V)
- 5V USB-C power
- Bluetooth for setup
- Supports up to 50 devices
- MSRP: $179
- Gen 1 Cloud Key:
- Quad-core, 2GB RAM, 16GB storage (optional 8GB)
- Gigabit Ethernet port
- Passive PoE (802.3af)
- Micro USB for power
- No Bluetooth
- New Features in Gen 2 Cloud Key:
- Upgraded hardware capabilities
- Enhanced user interface
- Improved system stats display
- Built-in battery for graceful shutdown during power outages
- Benefits of Gen 2 Cloud Key:
- Increased memory and processing speed
- Bluetooth setup option
- Power failure protection
- Improved user experience
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | UCK-G2-PLUS |
| Dimensions | 2.36 x 4.72 x 6.69 in (6 x 12 x 17 cm) |
| Weight | 14.1 oz (400 g) |
| Operating Temperature | 32° to 140° F (0° to 60° C) |
| Storage Temperature | -4° to 158° F (-20° to 70° C) |
| Humidity | 5% to 95% (non-condensing) |
| Maximum Power Consumption | 7.5 W |
| Power Supply | 120-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 0.3 A |
| Input Voltage | 12 VDC |
| Storage | 1 TB HDD (2.5”) |
| Processor | Quad-Core Annapurna Labs Alpine AL212 |
| Memory | 3 GB RAM |
| Operating System | Debian GNU/Linux |
| Number of PoE Ports | 0 |
| Number of Gigabit Ethernet Ports | 3 |
| UniFi Controller Software Version | 6.x |
| Supported Protocol | IPv4, IPv6 |
| Security Protocols | SSH, SSL/TLS, HTTPS |
| LED Indicators | System, HDD, WAN, LAN1, LAN2, LAN3 |
| Mounting Options | Wall, Rack |
| Accessories | Mounting brackets, power adapter, power cord |
Key Features
Features of Ubiquiti Networks UniFi Cloud Key Gen2 Plus Router (UCK-G2-PLUS):
Hardware:
- Quad-core 1.7 GHz processor
- 1 GB RAM
- 8 GB eMMC flash storage
- 1x Gigabit Ethernet WAN port
- 2x Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports
- 1x USB 3.0 port
Software:
- UniFi Protect: NVR software for managing network cameras
- UniFi Network: Network management software for routers, switches, and access points
- UniFi Access: Access control system for door locks and access points
- UniFi Talk: VoIP and video conferencing system
Management:
- Local web interface
- Mobile app (iOS and Android)
- Cloud access via UniFi.ui.com
Other Features:
- Passive cooling for silent operation
- Compact design for easy mounting
- Integrated surge and ESD protection
- PoE+ support (802.3at/af)
- Automatic firmware updates
- Supports multiple sites and tenants
Benefits:
- Centralized Management: Manage all UniFi devices from a single, easy-to-use interface.
- Multi-Site Support: Manage multiple sites and networks remotely.
- Advanced NVR Functionality: Supports advanced features such as face recognition, motion detection, and event alerts.
- Built-in Access Control: Integrate with UniFi Access for door locks and access point management.
- VoIP and Video Conferencing: Connect with colleagues and clients through the integrated UniFi Talk system.
- Cloud Connectivity: Access your network from anywhere with the UniFi cloud portal.
- PoE+ Support: Power the Cloud Key using a PoE switch or injector, eliminating the need for separate power cables.
- Compact and Convenient: Small footprint and wall-mountable design for easy installation in any location.
What do people say about this product
Pros:
- Centralized management: Allows for easy management and monitoring of multiple UniFi devices from a single web interface.
- Powerful hardware: Equipped with a quad-core processor, 1GB RAM, and 8GB of storage, providing smooth performance even with high traffic loads.
- Built-in UniFi Protect: Supports video surveillance with automatic camera discovery and playback, allowing for seamless integration with UniFi cameras.
- Cloud-based backup: Provides secure off-site backup for configuration and data, ensuring resilience against hardware failures.
- VPN server: Supports VPN connectivity for secure remote access to the network.
- Advanced threat detection: Integrates with UniFi Network Application to monitor network traffic for potential threats and provide automated alerts.
Cons:
- Limited Wi-Fi capabilities: Doesn’t have built-in Wi-Fi functionality, requiring separate Access Points for wireless coverage.
- Dependent on cloud: Relies on cloud-based services for management and backup, which may be a concern for users who value privacy or offline access.
- Complex setup for beginners: The advanced features and configuration options may be overwhelming for inexperienced users.
- Limited customization: The user interface is designed for simplicity, which may limit the level of customization and fine-tuning available.
- Potential latency issues: Cloud-based management can introduce latency in accessing the web interface, especially for users with slow internet connections.
- Cost: Relatively expensive compared to some competing routers, especially for those who don’t require the advanced features or UniFi ecosystem integration.