Getting Started with UniFi Protect: A Complete Guide by Juan David
Published by Juan David Ramirez on 5th Dec 2024
Hey there, tech enthusiasts! Juan David here—your Tech Lead Support and UniFi Certified Trainer at Flytec. If you’re looking to elevate your surveillance game, UniFi Protect is the perfect solution. It’s scalable, AI-powered, and offers top-tier functionality without licensing fees. Let’s break it all down and get you started!
What is UniFi Protect?
UniFi Protect is an advanced video surveillance system that combines on-premise privacy with remote convenience. It features AI-driven detections, making it easy to focus on meaningful events, simplify footage export, and enhance your security with powerful customization options.
Key Benefits:
- AI-Powered Detections: Focus on motion, people, vehicles, and even sounds like glass breaking or baby cries.
- Advanced Recognition: Identify license plates or faces for personalized alerts.
- Two-Way Audio: Communicate directly through cameras with built-in speakers.
- Seamless Integration: Works perfectly with other UniFi applications.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Here’s your UniFi Protect starter pack:
- UniFi Console: A console that supports the UniFi Protect application like the UDM-PRO, UDM-SE, UNVR, and many more.
- Protect Cameras: Opt for UniFi’s AI or G5 series for advanced features and high-quality imaging.
- Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) Switches: Power your cameras with ease.
- Mobile or Web Access: Manage everything from your phone or PC.
Step-by-Step: Setting Up UniFi Protect
1. Prepare Your Console
- Ensure your console is running the UniFi Protect application.
- Navigate to the Control Plane in the settings menu to view installed applications.
2. Connect Your Cameras
- Plug your cameras into a PoE switch for power and connectivity.
- Tip: For VLAN setups, ensure cameras are on the same VLAN as your console or NVR.
3. Adopt Your Cameras
Choose one of these methods:
- Mobile App: Download the UniFi Protect app (iOS/Android), log in, and follow prompts to adopt cameras.
- Site Manager: Visit unifi.ui.com, log in, and select your console. Select the Protect application, open the Devices tab and click "Adopt."
Unlocking Advanced Features
AI-Driven Detections
With AI-powered detection, your cameras can focus on:
- Motion, People, and Vehicles
- Animals, Line Crossing, and more!
Efficiently filter events in the Detection Tab to quickly locate critical footage and export clips for sharing or long-term storage.
Advanced Recognition
Take surveillance up a notch with AI-Series cameras:
- License Plate Recognition: Track vehicles of interest.
- Facial Recognition: Identify known individuals for custom alerts.
Customizable Alerts
UniFi Protect’s Alarm Manager lets you create alerts tailored to your security needs. Configure triggers, set schedules, and choose notification types like push, email, or even webhook integrations for seamless automation.
Best Devices to Pair with UniFi Protect
AI Cameras
- UVC-AI-Pro: 4K camera with enhanced AI detection.
- UVC-AI-360: Pan-tilt-zoom functionality for complete 360° coverage.
G5 Cameras
- UVC-G5-Dome Ultra: Ultra-compact, tamper-resistant 2K camera with night vision.
- UVC-G5-Flex: Compact, versatile 2K HD camera.
NVRs & Consoles
- UNVR-Pro: Supports up to 35 2K cameras, expandable with dual units.
- UDM-PRO-MAX: All-in-one powerhouse for surveillance and networking.
Leveraging Two-Way Audio
Many UniFi cameras feature two-way audio, allowing you to communicate directly with subjects. Supported devices include the G4 Doorbell Pro, AI Theta, AI Pro and many more
How to Use It:
- Open the UniFi Protect Mobile App.
- Navigate to the camera’s Playback section.
- Tap the microphone icon and speak—your message will be broadcasted instantly!
Exporting and Archiving Footage
Keep your recordings safe and accessible:
- Export Clips: Share specific moments via the app or web interface.
- Cloud Archiving: Store recordings on NAS or cloud platforms like Google Drive.
Final Thoughts
UniFi Protect isn’t just a surveillance system—it’s a smart security platform that adapts to your needs. Whether you’re safeguarding a home or managing business operations, Flytec Computers has got you covered with the best devices and expert support.
Ready to get started? Drop by Flytec Computers or reach out for personalized assistance. Let’s build your ultimate surveillance setup together!
Until next time,
Juan David, your Tech Lead Support at Flytec