Ubiquiti UniFi Pro 24 Switch Review: Complete Guide

Managing your network shouldn’t feel like rocket science. You need reliable equipment that just works. The Ubiquiti UniFi Pro 24 Switch promises professional-grade networking without the professional-grade headaches.

This device sits at the heart of countless small business and home office networks. But does it deliver on its promises?

This review covers everything you need to know. You’ll learn about specifications, real-world performance, setup processes, and alternatives.

Key Takeaways

• Performance and Capacity: The UniFi Pro 24 delivers 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports with 250W total PoE budget, perfect for powering access points, cameras, and VoIP phones without separate power supplies.
• Management Simplicity: The UniFi Controller software provides centralized management across your entire network, making configuration changes and monitoring incredibly straightforward compared to traditional CLI-based switches.
• Value Proposition: You get enterprise-level features including VLAN support, Quality of Service (QoS), and advanced traffic monitoring at a fraction of the cost of competing Cisco or HP switches.
• Scalability: The switch integrates seamlessly with other UniFi equipment, allowing you to expand your network infrastructure as your needs grow without compatibility concerns.
• Real-World Reliability: Thousands of businesses trust this switch for daily operations, with silent fanless operation in most conditions and consistent uptime that rivals equipment costing three times as much.

Understanding the Ubiquiti UniFi Pro 24 Switch

The UniFi Pro 24 belongs to Ubiquiti’s managed switch lineup. This device bridges the gap between consumer-grade equipment and enterprise infrastructure. You get professional capabilities without needing a networking degree to use them.

The switch features 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports for connecting devices. Two additional SFP ports provide fiber connectivity options. The total switching capacity reaches 26 Gbps with a forwarding rate of 38.69 Mpps. These numbers mean your network can handle heavy traffic without bottlenecks.

Power over Ethernet changes everything. The UniFi Pro 24 provides 250W total PoE budget across its ports. You can power IP cameras, wireless access points, and VoIP phones directly through network cables. This eliminates the need for separate power adapters at each device location.

The form factor fits standard 19-inch racks perfectly. The switch measures just 1U in height, making it space-efficient. The fanless design operates silently in most environments, though fans activate under heavy loads or high temperatures.

UniFi’s management approach differs from traditional switches. Instead of command-line interfaces, you use the UniFi Controller software. This application runs on Windows, Mac, Linux, or as a cloud service. The graphical interface makes network management accessible to users without extensive networking backgrounds.

Build Quality and Design Features

The UniFi Pro 24 showcases solid construction. The metal chassis feels substantial and durable. This isn’t cheap plastic that cracks under pressure. The switch can handle the rigors of rack mounting and daily operations.

The front panel displays LED indicators for each port. These lights show link status, speed, and activity at a glance. The color-coded system makes troubleshooting straightforward. Green indicates Gigabit connections, while orange shows 10/100 links.

Port layout follows logical conventions. The 24 Gigabit ports sit in rows across the front. The two SFP ports occupy the rightmost positions. This arrangement keeps fiber connections separate from copper ports.

Ventilation design ensures proper cooling. The perforated side panels allow air circulation. The intelligent fan control keeps noise minimal during light loads. Under maximum PoE draw or high temperatures, fans spin up to maintain safe operating conditions.

The rear panel houses the power connection and mounting points. The switch uses a standard IEC power cable, making replacements easy to find. Rack mounting ears attach securely with included hardware.

Physical security features include a Kensington lock slot. This protects against theft in semi-public installations. The solid construction also protects internal components from physical damage.

Top 3 Alternatives for Ubiquiti UniFi Pro 24 Switch

Sometimes the UniFi Pro 24 isn’t the perfect fit. Different environments require different solutions. These three alternatives offer compelling features for specific use cases.

The Cisco CBS350-24P-4G brings Cisco’s legendary reliability to small businesses. You get similar port counts with Cisco’s support infrastructure. The web-based interface might feel more familiar to some administrators. However, you’ll pay significantly more for the Cisco name.

The TP-Link TL-SG3428MP offers incredible value. This managed switch provides 24 PoE ports with a massive 384W power budget. The additional power capacity supports more devices or power-hungry equipment. The management interface works well, though it lacks UniFi’s ecosystem integration.

The Netgear GS728TP serves as a middle-ground option. You get 24 ports with PoE support and excellent build quality. Netgear’s management software provides robust features. The switch works as a standalone solution without requiring additional controller software.

Each alternative has strengths. Cisco offers enterprise support and name recognition. TP-Link delivers exceptional value with higher power budgets. Netgear provides simplified management for those avoiding ecosystem lock-in. Your specific requirements determine the best choice.

Setting Up Your UniFi Pro 24 Switch

Initial setup takes minimal time. The process doesn’t require specialized knowledge or tools. You’ll have your switch operational within an hour.

First, install the UniFi Controller software. Download it from Ubiquiti’s website for your operating system. The installation wizard guides you through the process. Alternatively, consider running the controller on a Cloud Key or Dream Machine for always-on management.

Connect the switch to power and your network. Use an Ethernet cable to connect one port to your existing router or network. The switch powers up automatically. LED indicators begin showing activity within seconds.

Open the UniFi Controller software. The application automatically discovers new UniFi devices on your network. The switch appears in the devices list. Click Adopt to add it to your network configuration.

The adoption process takes a few minutes. The switch downloads the latest firmware and applies your network settings. During this time, avoid disconnecting power or network cables. The LED indicators flash during the update process.

Once adopted, you can configure port settings. Create VLANs to segment network traffic. Enable or disable PoE on individual ports. Set up port profiles for common device types like cameras or access points.

The web interface provides visual network topology. You see all connected devices and their relationships. Traffic statistics update in real-time, showing bandwidth usage across ports.

Performance in Real-World Scenarios

Numbers on specification sheets only tell part of the story. Real-world performance reveals how equipment handles actual workloads. The UniFi Pro 24 performs admirably across various applications.

In small office environments, the switch handles 20-30 simultaneous users effortlessly. Internet browsing, file transfers, and video calls proceed without hiccups. The Gigabit ports provide plenty of bandwidth for typical business applications.

Network attached storage performance impresses. File transfers between computers and NAS devices reach near-gigabit speeds. Large file copies complete quickly without network slowdowns. The switch’s backplane handles multiple simultaneous transfers without degradation.

PoE performance matches specifications. You can power multiple UniFi access points and IP cameras simultaneously. The 250W budget supports approximately 10-12 access points or 15-20 cameras, depending on their power requirements. The intelligent power allocation prevents overloading.

VoIP phone systems work flawlessly. Call quality remains crystal clear even during heavy network usage. Quality of Service settings prioritize voice traffic automatically. This prevents choppy calls when someone starts a large download.

Video surveillance systems benefit from the switch’s capabilities. Multiple IP cameras stream footage simultaneously without frame drops. The switch handles the constant data flow from cameras to recording servers. PoE simplifies camera installations by eliminating separate power runs.

Advanced Features and Configuration Options

The UniFi Pro 24 packs features typically found in much more expensive switches. These capabilities provide flexibility for growing networks.

VLAN support enables network segmentation. Separate your guest WiFi from business network. Isolate IP cameras from general network traffic. VLANs improve security and performance. The UniFi Controller makes VLAN configuration visual and intuitive.

Link aggregation combines multiple ports for increased bandwidth. Connect your server or NAS with two or four ports bonded together. This multiplies available bandwidth and provides redundancy. If one cable fails, traffic automatically shifts to remaining links.

Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) prevents network loops. This feature becomes crucial when connecting multiple switches together. STP automatically detects and prevents circular connections that would crash your network.

Port mirroring assists with troubleshooting and monitoring. Copy traffic from one port to another for analysis. Network administrators can attach monitoring tools without disrupting normal operations. This feature proves invaluable when diagnosing intermittent problems.

Storm control protects against broadcast floods. Malicious or malfunctioning devices sometimes generate excessive broadcast traffic. Storm control limits this traffic, preventing network-wide disruptions.

IGMP snooping optimizes multicast traffic. This feature ensures video streams and other multicast data only goes to interested devices. Your network bandwidth isn’t wasted sending streams to ports that don’t need them.

Power over Ethernet Capabilities

PoE transforms network installations. Running power through network cables simplifies deployments dramatically. The UniFi Pro 24 implements PoE effectively.

The switch supports 802.3af and 802.3at standards. This means compatibility with virtually all PoE devices on the market. Older 802.3af devices receive up to 15.4W per port. Newer 802.3at devices can draw up to 30W per port.

The 250W total power budget requires strategic planning. Not all 24 ports can provide maximum power simultaneously. Calculate your total power needs before deployment. Most access points need 10-15W, while PTZ cameras might require 20-30W.

Automatic power negotiation prevents device damage. The switch detects each device’s power requirements and provides exactly what’s needed. Non-PoE devices connected to PoE-enabled ports won’t receive power, preventing accidents.

Per-port PoE control provides granular management. Turn PoE on or off for individual ports through the controller interface. Remote power cycling troubleshoots stuck devices without site visits. Schedule automatic power cycles to reboot equipment during maintenance windows.

Power monitoring shows real-time consumption. The controller displays how much power each device draws. This information helps plan expansions and identify power-hungry equipment. You can prevent oversubscription before it becomes a problem.

Management Software and Interface

The UniFi Controller software defines the user experience. This application separates UniFi equipment from competitors. The interface prioritizes usability without sacrificing functionality.

The dashboard provides an at-a-glance overview. See connected devices, bandwidth usage, and network health immediately. Visual representations make information accessible. Graphs show traffic patterns over time.

Device management centralizes all UniFi equipment. Your switches, access points, and security gateways appear in one interface. Configuration changes propagate automatically. You don’t manage devices individually.

Network topology visualizes your infrastructure. The map shows how devices connect to each other. This visualization helps understand network structure. Troubleshooting becomes easier when you see the big picture.

Client devices display with detailed information. See which devices connect to which ports. View bandwidth usage per client. Identify bandwidth hogs quickly. The interface even shows device manufacturers and connection history.

Alerts and notifications keep you informed. Configure email alerts for specific events. Get notified when devices disconnect or encounter problems. Proactive monitoring prevents small issues from becoming major outages.

Backup and restore protects your configuration. The controller automatically backs up settings. Restore your configuration quickly after hardware failures. Export configurations to move between controller instances.

Comparison with Other UniFi Switches

Ubiquiti offers several switch models. Understanding the differences helps choose the right device for your needs.

The UniFi Switch Lite 16 PoE provides a budget option. You get 16 ports with PoE in a compact form factor. The reduced port count and 45W power budget suit smaller installations. It costs significantly less but sacrifices capacity.

The UniFi Switch 24 (non-Pro) removes some advanced features. You lose Layer 3 functionality and advanced routing. The standard model works well for simple networks. Save money if you don’t need enterprise features.

The UniFi Switch Pro 48 doubles the port count. This switch handles larger deployments with 48 Gigabit ports. The increased size and power consumption require more rack space. Choose this for growing networks that need immediate expansion capacity.

The UniFi Switch Enterprise 24 PoE adds 10G SFP+ uplink ports. These high-speed connections link multiple switches or connect to servers. The Enterprise line also includes enhanced PoE++ support. You’ll pay premium prices for these capabilities.

The Pro 24 occupies the sweet spot for most users. You get advanced features without excessive cost. The port count suits small to medium installations. The PoE budget handles typical access point and camera deployments.

Common Use Cases and Applications

The UniFi Pro 24 excels in specific environments. Understanding ideal applications ensures you choose appropriate equipment.

Small business networks represent the primary target market. Companies with 15-50 employees find the Pro 24 perfectly sized. The switch handles workstations, printers, access points, and cameras. The centralized management simplifies IT administration for businesses without dedicated IT staff.

Home offices and labs benefit from enterprise features at consumer-friendly prices. Tech enthusiasts build sophisticated home networks using UniFi equipment. The switch provides VLANs for network segmentation and PoE for access points. Homelab builders appreciate the learning opportunities.

Retail environments rely on stable connectivity. POS systems, inventory scanners, and guest WiFi all connect through the switch. PoE cameras monitor the store without complicated wiring. The silent operation doesn’t disturb customers.

Schools and education deploy UniFi equipment extensively. The switches connect student devices, interactive whiteboards, and administrative systems. The management interface allows teachers to troubleshoot basic issues. Centralized control helps IT staff manage multiple buildings.

Multi-tenant buildings use UniFi for shared infrastructure. Apartment buildings and office spaces provide internet as an amenity. VLANs keep each tenant’s traffic separate. The controller enables easy bandwidth allocation and monitoring.

Warehouses and industrial settings appreciate the fanless operation. Dust and temperature extremes challenge network equipment. The UniFi Pro 24’s solid construction and intelligent cooling handle tough environments.

Troubleshooting and Common Issues

Even reliable equipment encounters occasional problems. Understanding common issues and solutions saves time and frustration.

Adoption failures sometimes occur during initial setup. Ensure your controller software runs the latest version. Check that the switch and controller exist on the same network. Manually set the controller address if automatic discovery fails.

PoE devices not powering up indicates insufficient power budget or configuration issues. Verify the switch’s total PoE consumption doesn’t exceed 250W. Check that PoE is enabled for specific ports in the controller. Some devices require 802.3at; confirm the switch provides adequate power.

Slow network speeds might result from misconfigured settings. Verify that ports negotiate at Gigabit speeds, not 10/100. Check for duplex mismatches causing performance degradation. Disable unnecessary features like storm control if they’re too aggressive.

Firmware update problems occasionally brick switches. Always read release notes before updating. Perform updates during maintenance windows. Keep your controller software version compatible with switch firmware. Maintain physical access during updates in case recovery becomes necessary.

High CPU usage indicates processing bottlenecks. Reduce IGMP snooping table sizes if running many multicast streams. Disable unused features consuming resources. Consider upgrading to a more powerful switch if demands exceed capacity.

Overheating issues affect performance and reliability. Ensure adequate ventilation around the switch. Clean dust from vents regularly. Verify the ambient temperature stays within specifications. Consider additional cooling for hot environments.

Price and Value Analysis

Cost considerations influence every purchasing decision. The UniFi Pro 24 competes aggressively on price while maintaining quality.

The switch typically retails for $400-500. This pricing undercuts comparable Cisco and HP switches by 50-70%. You get similar features at a fraction of the cost. The savings multiply when building larger networks with multiple switches.

Total cost of ownership extends beyond purchase price. The UniFi platform eliminates expensive licensing fees. No annual contracts or support subscriptions are required. Free software updates add features and security patches.

Time savings translate to cost savings. The intuitive interface reduces configuration time. Remote management eliminates truck rolls for basic troubleshooting. A single administrator manages dozens of sites from one controller.

Scalability protects your investment. Adding additional UniFi equipment integrates seamlessly. You don’t face compatibility issues or learning curves with new devices. The ecosystem grows with your needs.

Resale value remains strong. Used UniFi equipment sells quickly on secondary markets. Upgrading doesn’t mean total loss of investment. The strong community demand supports healthy resale prices.

Warranty coverage includes one year standard. This protection handles manufacturing defects. Extended warranties are available for critical installations. The reliability record suggests most switches operate well beyond warranty periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the UniFi Pro 24 switch without a UniFi Controller?

The switch requires a controller for initial setup and configuration. After adoption and configuration, the switch continues operating if the controller goes offline. You lose monitoring and management capabilities without the controller running. Best practice involves keeping the controller running continuously on a Cloud Key or always-on computer.

Does the UniFi Pro 24 switch support Layer 3 routing?

Yes, the Pro 24 includes Layer 3 functionality. You can configure static routes and inter-VLAN routing. This eliminates the need for a separate router in some network designs. The routing performance handles typical small business requirements effectively.

How loud is the fan noise on the UniFi Pro 24 switch?

The switch operates in fanless mode under normal conditions. Fans activate only when the switch reaches higher temperatures or approaches maximum PoE capacity. In typical office environments with moderate loads, you won’t hear any fan noise.

Can I power outdoor security cameras with this switch?

Yes, the switch powers outdoor PoE cameras effectively. Ensure your cameras support 802.3af or 802.3at standards. The 250W power budget accommodates 15-20 typical IP cameras. Weather-resistant Ethernet cables complete the outdoor installation requirements.

What happens if I exceed the 250W PoE power budget?

The switch prioritizes ports based on your configuration. Lower priority ports lose power when the budget is exceeded. The controller displays warnings before reaching limits. Plan your deployment to stay within budget, or consider the higher-capacity Pro 48 PoE for larger installations.

Is the UniFi Pro 24 compatible with non-Ubiquiti equipment?

Absolutely. The switch works as a standard managed switch with any manufacturer’s equipment. PoE compatibility follows industry standards. VLANs and other features work with any networking equipment. You gain maximum benefits within the UniFi ecosystem, but the switch functions independently.

How difficult is firmware updating on the UniFi Pro 24?

Firmware updates happen through the controller interface with a single click. The switch automatically downloads and installs updates. The process takes 5-10 minutes. The controller notifies you when updates are available. You choose when to apply updates based on your maintenance schedule.

Can I use SFP modules from other manufacturers?

Yes, the SFP ports accept third-party modules. Ubiquiti doesn’t lock you into proprietary optics. Standard SFP transceivers from companies like FS.com or TP-Link work perfectly. This flexibility saves money on fiber connections.