Get Started with UniFi Dream Machine Max for Small Businesses

This guide assumes you have a UniFi Dream Machine Max (UDM-Max) and an existing internet connection from your ISP, often via a fiber converter or a modem.

Step 1: Connect the hardware

1. Place the UDM-Max in a cool, ventilated location, preferably centrally in the premises.
2. Connect the internet cable from the ISP device to the port marked WAN on the UDM-Max.
3. Connect any access points or switches to the LAN ports.
4. Plug in the power and wait until the device LED lights up steadily white/blue.

Tip: If your ISP requires a specific VLAN tag on the WAN side, you can set this under Internet in the app after the initial setup.

Step 2: Create a UniFi account and adopt the device

1. Download the UniFi Network app to your phone or visit https://unifi.ui.com in a browser.
2. Create an account or log in.
3. The app usually finds the device automatically. If it doesn’t, scan the QR code on the underside of the UDM-Max.
4. Follow the guide to set an admin password and choose region/time zone.

Step 3: Create WiFi networks

Create at least two separate networks:

• Company WiFi for employees’ computers, phones, and printers.
• Guest WiFi for visitors and suppliers.

Here’s how to do it in the app:

1. Go to Settings → Networks and create a new network.
2. Select VLAN if you want to completely separate guest traffic from the company network.
3. Go to WiFi and create SSIDs for each network. Choose WPA3 if all devices support it, otherwise WPA2.
4. Save and wait a minute for the settings to be applied.

Step 4: Enable security and updates

1. Go to System → Updates and install the latest firmware.
2. Enable Auto-update so that security updates are installed automatically.
3. Under Security you can turn on IPS/IDS to get warnings about suspicious traffic. Keep in mind that it may affect maximum speed slightly.
4. Turn on WPA3 and device isolation on the guest network.

Step 5: Place access points correctly

If you have a larger premises, you need to supplement with access points:

• Place them on the ceiling, centrally in each zone.
• Avoid placing them directly next to metal cabinets, mirrors, or thick concrete walls.
• Use a wired connection back to the UDM-Max when possible. Mesh is an alternative, but cable gives the best performance.

Common questions

Do I need an IT department to run UniFi? No. For a small office, the basic configuration in the app goes a long way. You only need IT support when you want to create advanced rules.

What does the cloud service cost? The UniFi Network app is free to use locally. The cloud view (Remote Access) is also free for individuals and small businesses.

Can I have multiple users administering? Yes, you can invite colleagues with different permissions under Settings → Admins.

Next steps

When the network is in place, you can proceed to connect printers, cameras, and other IoT devices. See our guide Best printers for small businesses 2026 if you need a new printer.