📚 Main Topics

1. Introduction to Network Configuration

   • Importance of having a consolidated resource for network setup.
   • Overview of the UniFi for Newbies series.

2. Basic Network Setup

   • Starting with a single VLAN (VLAN 1) and abandoning it for security reasons.
   • Creating new VLANs for different purposes:
     • Home Network (VLAN 2)
     • Camera Network (VLAN 3)
     • IoT Network (VLAN 4)
     • Guest Network (VLAN 99)
     • Management Network (VLAN 254)

3. Wi-Fi and Switch Port Configuration

   • Setting up multiple Wi-Fi networks and assigning VLANs.
   • Explanation of trunk ports vs. access ports.
   • Assigning VLANs to switch ports for proper IP addressing.

4. Zone-Based Firewall Rules

   • Importance of establishing communication rules between VLANs.
   • Steps to create firewall rules to control access and enhance security.
   • Testing network communication to ensure proper setup.

5. Management VLAN Utilization

   • How to assign devices to the management VLAN.
   • Importance of isolating management traffic from other networks.

✨ Key Takeaways

• Security Best PracticesAvoid using the default VLAN (VLAN 1) to minimize security vulnerabilities. Instead, create dedicated VLANs for different types of traffic.
• Network SegmentationUse VLANs to segment traffic for home devices, cameras, IoT devices, guests, and management to enhance security and performance.
• Wi-Fi ConfigurationProperly configure Wi-Fi networks to ensure devices connect to the correct VLANs and maintain performance.
• Firewall RulesImplement zone-based firewall rules to control which VLANs can communicate with each other and the internet, ensuring that sensitive networks are protected.
• Testing and ValidationAlways test network configurations to ensure that devices can communicate as intended before finalizing firewall rules.

🧠 Lessons Learned

• Backup ConfigurationAlways back up your network configuration before making changes to avoid losing settings.
• DocumentationName ports and devices clearly to make network management easier.
• Iterative TestingTest each part of the network setup incrementally to identify issues early and avoid complex troubleshooting later.
• Community EngagementEngage with the community for support and to share experiences, which can help in troubleshooting and improving setups.