A point-to-point wireless link connects two locations where a physical cable or fibre connection is impractical.
Practical example: choosing UniFi or UISP
Do not assume all Ubiquiti products belong to one interchangeable management architecture.
Scenario: A business needs managed office WiFi and switching, while a separate requirement connects remote buildings using outdoor wireless links.
UniFi is evaluated for the managed LAN, gateways, switching and access points. UISP products are evaluated for service-provider-style or outdoor point-to-point and point-to-multipoint infrastructure where appropriate.
Decision: Select the product family from the network role rather than assuming all Ubiquiti products are part of one interchangeable management architecture.
Common mistakes and selection checklist
Common mistakes
- Assuming UniFi, UISP, airMAX and related product families are interchangeable because they share the Ubiquiti brand.
- Buying a gateway, AP or switch before deciding how the network will be managed.
- Mixing product generations without checking uplink, PoE and controller requirements.
What happens if you get it wrong?
The hardware can be individually capable but form an awkward management design, require unexpected controllers or injectors, or fail to provide the intended end-to-end feature set.
Selection checklist
- Define whether the requirement is an enterprise LAN, managed WiFi, outdoor PtP/PtMP link or service-provider-style network.
- Choose the appropriate Ubiquiti product family for that role.
- Check management or controller requirements.
- Verify Ethernet speeds, PoE input/output and optical uplinks.
- Check environmental and mounting requirements for outdoor equipment.
Two endpoints
A point-to-point link normally uses a radio at each end. Radios and antennas must be selected as a complete link.
Line of sight
Obstructions and the radio environment can affect the link. Site planning and proper alignment are important for long-distance wireless.
Products in the range
Your list includes NanoBeam, PowerBeam, LiteBeam, Rocket and airFiber products, plus directional antennas.
Distance is not the only number
Frequency, antenna characteristics, interference, mounting and required throughput all influence suitability.
Confirm the exact product specification, supported configuration and compatibility before ordering. Platform generation, firmware, licences and optional components can change what a product supports.