What is the UCK-G2-PLUS UniFi Cloud Key Gen2 Plus?
The UCK-G2-PLUS is a powerful, next-generation hybrid cloud device for managing UniFi networking devices and UniFi Protect surveillance cameras. It offers centralized management for UniFi controllers, and its built-in hard drive allows it to function as an NVR (Network Video Recorder) for UniFi Protect cameras. The device integrates smoothly into the UniFi ecosystem, enabling users to monitor both network devices and security cameras from a single interface.
What does the Ubiquiti UniFi Cloud Key Gen 2 Plus do;
The Ubiquiti UniFi Cloud Key Gen 2 Plus (UCK-G2-PLUS) is a powerful device designed to manage and control UniFi network devices and UniFi Protect surveillance systems. It replaces the need for cloud hosting services or dedicated servers, making it cost-efficient and easy to manage. With its sleek design, powerful hardware, and user-friendly interface, the UCK-G2-PLUS is an ideal solution for those seeking a hassle-free, high-performance cloud controller.
Here’s what it does:
Network Management
Centralized Control: It acts as a controller for your UniFi network, providing a single interface to manage all UniFi devices, including access points, switches, and security gateways.
Cloud Access: The Cloud Key Gen 2 Plus allows you to access and control your network remotely from anywhere in the world using Ubiquiti’s secure cloud infrastructure. You can manage your network via the web or the UniFi app.
No Need for a Server: It eliminates the need for a dedicated computer or server to run the UniFi Network Controller software, offering a more efficient and cost-effective management solution.
Video Surveillance with UniFi Protect
Built-in NVR: The Cloud Key Gen 2 Plus also serves as a Network Video Recorder (NVR) for UniFi Protect cameras. It comes with a 1 TB hard drive (expandable to 5 TB) to store video footage from the cameras.
Video Monitoring: You can manage, monitor, and store video footage from multiple UniFi Protect cameras, allowing live viewing and playback of recorded footage.
Remote Access to Cameras: It enables you to view and manage your surveillance system remotely, ensuring 24/7 access to your camera feeds for enhanced security.
Data Security and Backup
Automatic Backups: The Cloud Key Gen 2 Plus provides automated network and video system backups to ensure that your data is safe in case of device failure.
Encryption: The device supports secure access with SSL certificates and two-factor authentication (2FA), ensuring that your network and video data are protected.
Touchscreen Display
It has a small front touchscreen display that provides real-time information such as system status, IP address, and other quick-access details without needing to log into the web interface.
Power Efficiency
The Cloud Key Gen 2 Plus is highly energy-efficient compared to running a traditional server, making it a cost-effective solution for small to medium-sized networks.
Key Features of the UCK-G2-PLUS
Hybrid Cloud Management
The UniFi Cloud Key Gen2 Plus allows you to manage your UniFi devices and UniFi Protect cameras from anywhere in the world, thanks to Ubiquiti’s secure cloud infrastructure. It combines local management with cloud accessibility, offering seamless and reliable control.
Integrated UniFi Controller
The UCK-G2-PLUS comes pre-installed with UniFi Network and UniFi Protect applications. This means that users can monitor and configure network devices such as switches, access points, and security cameras, all from one central interface.
Built-in 1 TB Hard Drive
It includes a 1 TB HDD (user-upgradable to 5 TB), which provides ample storage for video footage recorded by UniFi Protect cameras. The Cloud Key Gen2 Plus functions as an NVR, making it an excellent choice for small to medium-sized video surveillance setups.
Powerful Hardware
Quad-Core ARM Cortex-A53 Processor: Offers high performance for smooth operation.
3 GB RAM: Ensures responsive performance and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
SD Card Support: In addition to the internal hard drive, an external SD card slot is available for additional storage or backup.
UniFi Protect Integration
The UCK-G2-PLUS is designed to work seamlessly with UniFi Protect, Ubiquiti’s video surveillance platform. You can manage multiple cameras, monitor live feeds, and review recorded footage from a single interface.
Touchscreen Display
A front-facing 1.3-inch touchscreen provides quick access to device information, such as system status and IP address. This makes it easier to monitor and maintain the device without logging into the web interface.
Backup and Restore Options
The UCK-G2-PLUS provides options for regular backups of configurations and data, ensuring that your network settings and camera footage are safeguarded in the event of hardware failure or data corruption.
Secure Access and Encryption
Ubiquiti places a strong emphasis on security with SSL certificate support, two-factor authentication (2FA), and end-to-end encryption to ensure the safety of your network data and surveillance footage.
Energy Efficiency
Consumes less power compared to running a dedicated server for network management and surveillance, making it an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution.
Applications of the UCK-G2-PLUS
Business Networks
Small and medium-sized businesses that use Ubiquiti UniFi devices, such as access points, switches, and security cameras, benefit from centralized control, allowing for seamless management, configuration, and monitoring.
Enterprise-Grade Surveillance
Businesses with UniFi Protect camera installations can manage all cameras from the Cloud Key Gen2 Plus, which doubles as an NVR. This is ideal for enterprises that require reliable security monitoring with video storage.
Managed IT Services
IT service providers can use the UCK-G2-PLUS to manage multiple client networks remotely, offering remote troubleshooting, updates, and configuration changes without having to visit the physical location.
Home Networks
Advanced home users who use UniFi networking devices or want to set up a home security system can leverage the Cloud Key Gen2 Plus for easy control and monitoring of all devices from a single, unified platform.
Campus or Multi-Site Deployments
Schools, hospitals, and large corporate campuses can use the UCK-G2-PLUS to centrally manage access points, switches, and surveillance cameras across multiple buildings, ensuring seamless connectivity and security.
Conclusion
The Ubiquiti UCK-G2-PLUS UniFi Cloud Key Gen2 Plus is a versatile, high-performance device designed to simplify network and video surveillance management. By combining powerful network management capabilities with built-in video storage for UniFi Protect cameras, the Cloud Key Gen2 Plus offers an all-in-one solution for IT administrators, businesses, and advanced home users.
Its hybrid cloud architecture, user-friendly interface, and scalability make it a must-have for anyone managing a UniFi-based network or security system. Whether you’re running a small business, managing a home network, or operating a large enterprise, the UCK-G2-PLUS offers unmatched convenience and performance.