My Ubiquiti Network Lab

Hey folks! After a much-needed vacation, I’m finally back—and as promised, I took some time to walk through my entire networking setup here at the townhouse I’m renting. This isn't just for show—this is my full testing ground for all the Unifi/Ubiquiti gear I recommend and install for churches and media ministries. Everything I’ve installed elsewhere? I’ve tested it here first.

🔧 The Nerve Center (My Impromptu Server Closet)
What started as a simple closet has turned into a full-blown server room. I’ve got a 24U rack, a UDM Pro, a 24-port USW Pro switch with PoE+, a 10G aggregation switch, and over 42TB of NAS storage. The space even has battery backup so the whole network can run for 14 hours without power!

📶 Wi-Fi, Cameras, and IoT
Every floor is wired and wireless-ready with U6 access points. The garage is smart: Tesla charger, smart garage door, and AI-powered security cameras all connect flawlessly. Inside, I’ve tested Unifi’s latest gear like the G6 and G5 PTZ cameras, as well as the Unifi Access Ultra setup (though that’s just for fun at the moment).

📺 Living Like a Media Ministry
My home is essentially a miniature media ministry. From live-streaming setups with vMix and PTZ joystick controls to VOIP with Unifi Talk phones (RIP to the awesome $40 model they discontinued), every detail reflects how I would build a church tech setup. It even includes a digital signage display cast for event announcements.

🎮 Entertainment & Upper Floors
Every floor has been optimized—hardwired where it matters, Wi-Fi where it makes sense. PlayStation stack (yes, 3 to 5!), smart plugs, and more Unifi sensors and switches fill out the upstairs entertainment area and office.

🏠 Designing with Limitations
Since I’m renting, I can’t tear down walls and install new conduit, but I make it work using existing Cat6 lines, powerline adapters, and creative switch placements. When I own again, you better believe I’ll be running fiber and planning ahead with way more jacks than I “need”—futureproofing like I advise my clients.

💡 Closing Thoughts & Merch Tease
This setup not only powers my home but also acts as a testbed for everything I recommend. I’m also trying out some new polo shirts with my “Beyond the Four Walls” logo—might put them up as merch if you’re interested!

It’s always a blast sharing my network nerdiness, especially when it can help someone build a smoother, smarter media setup. If you’re thinking of building something similar—whether at home or at your church—I hope this gives you some real-world inspiration.

Let me know—what part of this setup would you want in your space?

Equipment List

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Behind the Scenes: Upgrading The River Church’s Media Ministry

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Behind the Build: My Mini Media Ministry (Part 1)