UniFi Cloud Key: Complete Installation and Configuration Guide

The UniFi Cloud Key was originally introduced in 2016 at the WISPAPALOOZA event in Las Vegas. This compact tool weighs only 110g but offers powerful network management despite its minimal power consumption of max 5W.

We believe the Cloud Key is an excellent choice for network administrators who need to remotely manage multiple UniFi devices. This Cloud Key simplifies the process by having the UniFi Controller software pre-installed, allowing for easy configuration. Additionally, the Cloud Key supports microSD cards for configuration backups and can be powered via either an 802.3af-compliant PoE switch or a USB-C power source.

In this step-by-step guide, we will show you how to install and configure your UniFi Cloud Key. You will learn everything from basic preparations and network connection to software configuration and tips for secure operation. Follow us as we go through the process from start to finish!

Preparation before installation

Before you begin the actual installation of your UniFi Cloud Key, you need to prepare the right equipment and environment. This ensures a smooth installation and optimal performance for your network manager.

System requirements: Browser and network

To configure the UniFi Cloud Key, Google Chrome is highly recommended as a web browser. Other browsers may work but with limited functionality. Regarding network requirements, you need:

• A DHCP-enabled network so that the Cloud Key can automatically obtain an IP address
• Ethernet cables of at least CAT5 quality or higher
• A stable internet connection for remote access

It is also important to note that the Cloud Key functions as a standalone controller with built-in software, eliminating the need for a dedicated server or computer to manage your UniFi network.

Package contents: What comes with the Cloud Key

When you open the packaging of your UniFi Cloud Key, you should find the following components:

• UniFi Cloud Key device (model UC-CK)
• An Ethernet cable for network connection
• A microSD card (8 GB) for backup
• Quick Start Guide

The device is compact with dimensions of 21.7 x 43.4 x 121.9 mm and weighs only 110 g. Despite its small size, it is equipped with a powerful quad-core processor and 2 GB RAM to efficiently manage multiple UniFi devices in your network.

Power supply: PoE or USB-C

The UniFi Cloud Key can be powered in two different ways:

Option 1: PoE (Power over Ethernet)

Connect the device to an 802.3af-compliant PoE switch, such as a UniFi PoE switch. This is the cleanest installation solution as it eliminates the need for a separate power adapter. The Cloud Key uses standard 48V 802.3af PoE.

Option 2: USB power supply

If you do not have a PoE switch, you can use a USB power source. For the original version of the Cloud Key, you need a 5V USB source, at least 1A. For newer generations like the Cloud Key Gen2 Plus, a QuickCharge 2.0/3.0 compatible adapter providing 9V, 2A is recommended.

Note that a USB cable is usually not included in the package, so this will need to be purchased separately if you choose this option. The power consumption of the Cloud Key is also very low, only about 5W at maximum load.

With the right preparations in place, you can now proceed to the next step in the installation process – physically connecting your UniFi Cloud Key to the network.

Connecting the UniFi Cloud Key to the network

Now it's time to physically connect your Cloud Key to the network. This process is relatively simple and only requires a few steps, but there are some important details to keep an eye on for optimal performance.

Connection via PoE switch

The recommended method for connecting your UniFi Cloud Key is via a PoE (Power over Ethernet) switch. Here's how:

1. Connect an Ethernet cable to the Ethernet port on your UniFi Cloud Key
2. Connect the other end of the cable directly to a port on an 802.3af-compliant PoE switch, such as a UniFi PoE switch

This method is particularly practical as it eliminates the need for separate power cables, resulting in a cleaner installation. However, note that you should avoid creating loops in the network – use only one Ethernet connection at a time.

Alternative: USB power supply

If you don't have a PoE switch, you can use a USB power supply instead:

• For the original version of the Cloud Key: Connect a USB cable from the device directly to a 5V USB power source with at least 1A
• For newer generations (Gen2): Use a power source compatible with QuickCharge 2.0 and delivering 9V, 2A

Keep in mind that the USB cable is usually not included in the package and must be purchased separately. Some users have reported issues with USB power supply, so PoE is often the more reliable solution.

Placement in network topology

The following requirements apply to the Cloud Key's placement in the network:

• The network must be DHCP-enabled so that your Cloud Key can automatically obtain an IP address
• By default, the Cloud Key is set to DHCP mode and attempts to retrieve an IP address automatically
• If you need access but cannot find the device, it will use 192.168.1.30 as the standard fallback IP

Additionally, the Cloud Key works excellently for remote management of UniFi devices because all UniFi devices support remote management via external controllers. This provides flexibility in how you structure your network and enables administration even when you are not in the same physical location.

After connection, the LED indicator on your Cloud Key should start blinking while the device boots up. When it glows solid white, the device is ready to be configured.

Configure the software via web browser

After physically connecting your Cloud Key, the next step is to configure the software. This is a crucial process that allows you to start managing your network with full functionality.

Start via Chrome and Device Discovery Tool

Google Chrome is highly recommended for configuring the UniFi Cloud Key. Follow these steps:

1. Ensure your computer is connected to the same network as your Cloud Key
2. Open Chrome and type https://unifi.ubnt.com into the address bar
3. Log in with your UBNT account
4. Enable "Discover Cloud Key" in the upper right corner
5. If the Ubiquiti Device Discovery Tool is not already installed, you will be prompted to add it
6. Once the tool searches for the device, click "Adopt" in the Cloud Key device's action column

Alternative method: Direct IP access

If you prefer other web browsers, you can use this method:

1. Ensure your computer is on the same network as the Cloud Key
2. Find the device's IP address via your DHCP server (default fallback address is 192.168.1.30)
3. Open any web browser and type https:// followed by the IP address
4. At the security warning, click "Advanced" and "Proceed"
5. For the first login, use the default credentials: username "ubnt" and password "ubnt"

Run UniFi Setup Wizard

Once you are in the interface:

1. Click "Manage" to start the UniFi Setup Wizard
2. Follow the on-screen instructions for basic configuration
3. Create your administrator name and password (replace the default login)
4. Configure network settings according to your needs
5. Complete the wizard by clicking "Finish"

Enable remote access via ubnt.com

To manage the network remotely:

1. After the Setup Wizard, enter your ubnt.com account details
2. Click "Enable Cloud Access" to activate remote access
3. Return to the UniFi Controller tab in the browser
4. Wait while the UniFi Controller is adopted
5. Click "Launch" to open the UniFi Controller remotely

If you encounter problems with remote access, check that your internet service provider allows ports 80 and 443, or activate "Direct Remote Connection" in the network settings. In addition, DNS settings can affect the connection – some users have resolved issues by changing to public DNS servers such as 8.8.8.8 or 1.1.1.1.

Tips for secure operation and troubleshooting

To ensure your UniFi Cloud Key operates optimally, you need to be able to interpret the device's signals and know how to handle common situations. Here is important information about status indications, reset, and backup.

LED status indicators and what they mean

The LED light on your Cloud Key provides valuable information about the device's status:

• Solid white light: Device has factory settings and is ready for adoption
• Flashing white: Initializing and booting up
• Alternating white/blue: Device is busy, do not move or unplug it (usually during software upgrade)
• Solid blue: Device is operating normally and is adopted
• Blue flashing every 5 seconds: No internet connection or network issues
• Flashing white-blue-off: Device is in TFTP mode (recovery mode)

If your Cloud Key shows a white LED instead of the normal blue, it may indicate a problem that requires action. Some users have reported that this can be resolved through a proper reset.

Reset with the Reset button

The Reset button on the underside of your Cloud Key has two important functions:

1. Restart: Quickly press and release the reset button
2. Restore to factory settings: Hold the button for more than five seconds

For Cloud Key Gen1, the reset button is usually a small hole on the side that requires a paperclip or similar tool. For Gen2, the button is on the front of the device under the LED screen.

After restoring to factory settings, wait for the device to restart (may take a few minutes). Don't forget to change the default password "ubnt/ubnt" immediately after configuration to increase security.

Backup to microSD card

Your Cloud Key comes with a pre-installed microSD card (8 GB) used for configuration backup. The card slot is located on the underside of the device. This feature is crucial because it:

• Automatically saves all network settings
• Protects against data loss during unexpected power outages
• Allows for easy recovery if something goes wrong

For optimal security, ensure that backups are working regularly, especially after major configuration changes. Additionally, you should consider enabling two-factor authentication if you use a UniFi Cloud account, and keep the device's firmware updated to benefit from security updates.

Conclusion

In summary, in this guide we have covered all the important steps for installing and configuring your UniFi Cloud Key. This compact but powerful device revolutionizes the way you manage your network by combining simplicity with advanced features. The device weighs only 110 grams but offers complete control over your UniFi network wherever you are.

Preparation plays a crucial role in a successful installation. Therefore, we recommend that you carefully follow the guidelines regarding system requirements and power supply. The choice between PoE and USB power supply offers flexibility based on your existing network structure, although PoE usually provides the most reliable solution.

The physical connection is relatively straightforward once you understand the placement of your Cloud Key in the network topology. In addition, the built-in DHCP support simplifies the process by automatically assigning an IP address to the device.

Software configuration is easiest via Google Chrome and the Device Discovery Tool, which we strongly recommend. Alternatively, direct IP access works if you prefer other browsers. Don't forget to secure your device by immediately changing the default password.

Finally, you should familiarize yourself with the LED status indicators and the backup process to ensure long-term and trouble-free operation. The included microSD card plays an important role in protecting your configurations in the event of power outages or system failures.

With this knowledge, you can now fully utilize your UniFi Cloud Key and enjoy the benefits of centralized network management, whether you are in the office or on the go. This investment will significantly simplify your network administration in the coming years.

To access our full range of UniFi Cloud Key, click here