Complete Guide to UniFi Security Cameras and Access Control

Looking to upgrade your business or property security with a reliable, scalable solution? Ubiquiti’s UniFi Protect and UniFi Access systems deliver professional-grade surveillance and access control, fully integrated into the wider UniFi ecosystem. In this guide, we’ll walk through the UniFi camera series, setup essentials, and access control hardware to help you create a complete, future-ready security solution for your home, business or multi-site operation.

What is UniFi Protect?

UniFi Protect is Ubiquiti’s advanced video surveillance platform. It allows you to manage all your security cameras via the UniFi OS Console or a cloud-based dashboard. With no licence fees, seamless integration into existing UniFi networks, and intuitive controls, it’s the ideal solution for everything from home security to large enterprise deployments.

Understanding the UniFi Camera Range

G3, G4 and G5 Series
The G3 to G5 series are at the core of the UniFi camera lineup, offering HD and 4K video quality, weather-resistant designs for indoor and outdoor use, and built-in infrared for night vision. G4 and G5 models also feature smart AI capabilities such as motion detection, making them a perfect fit for retail, offices and residential applications.

G6 Series - Advanced AI and Low-Light Clarity
New for 2025, the G6 series blends the smart analytics and AI features of the UVC-AI series with the design and performance of the G5 range. With improved object recognition, AI-based motion detection, and enhanced image clarity in low-light environments, G6 cameras are built for installations where smart monitoring is key. These models retain a compact design and professional-grade quality, making them perfect for retailers, offices, remote sites, and environments where both clarity and intelligent detection matter.

• G6 Bullet: Outdoor bullet camera with 4MP video, AI object detection, low-light sensitivity and wide dynamic range

• G6 Turret: Compact turret ideal for entrances and corridors, featuring advanced IR and smart analytics

• G6 Instant: Plug-and-play indoor camera with AI motion alerts, PoE support and full UniFi Protect integration

AI Series – Intelligent Object Detection
The AI series, including models like the AI Bullet and AI 360, offers advanced features such as facial recognition, smart motion zones and real-time object detection. Designed for high-security environments like warehouses, educational campuses and commercial buildings, these cameras provide intelligent monitoring with deep data insights.

Top Benefits of UniFi Protect

UniFi Protect provides:

• No ongoing licence or subscription fees

• Real-time motion notifications and AI-powered alerts

• Seamless integration with your UniFi network

• Remote access via mobile app or browser

• Scalable performance from a single camera to hundreds

• Flexible recording via local storage or hybrid cloud setups

Setting Up UniFi Protect in Your Network

1. Install a UniFi OS Console such as the Cloud Key Gen2+, Dream Machine Pro or UNVR

2. Connect your cameras using Power over Ethernet (PoE)

3. Adopt devices via the UniFi Protect app or through the unifi.ui.com portal

4. Set up features such as motion zones, privacy masks, alerts and recording schedules

5. Monitor your camera feeds and access playback both onsite and remotely

What is UniFi Access?

UniFi Access is Ubiquiti’s smart door access system offering secure, centralised entry control. Built for businesses, shared spaces and growing enterprises, it combines sleek hardware with an intuitive software dashboard that makes managing users and doors effortless.

UniFi Access Hardware Overview

• UA-Hub: The central controller, required to manage a single door. It connects electric locks, sensors, and UniFi Access readers. For multi-door setups, Ubiquiti offers the EAH-8 controller.

• UA Readers: Modern, easy-to-install readers that support NFC cards, mobile unlocks and (on UA-Pro) PIN code entry

• Credentials: Secure NFC cards and key fobs that are quick to assign and easy to manage

Flexible Unlock Options

• NFC cards

• Key fobs

• Mobile app unlock

• PIN entry (on UA-Pro)

• Remote unlock via UniFi dashboard

This versatility allows you to configure access by role, time or location with ease.

Key Benefits of UniFi Access

• No subscription fees

• Real-time logs and access event visibility

• Seamless UniFi integration

• Scalable for multiple buildings or access points

• Unified management through one dashboard

Installing UniFi Access

1. Install the UA-Hub and connect using PoE++

2. Wire in electric locks, door sensors and exit buttons

3. Mount UA Readers at each entry

4. Adopt devices using the UniFi Access app or web interface

5. Create user profiles and assign NFC credentials

6. Set up schedules, zones and door access policies

Maximise Your UniFi Investment with Pro-Grade Security

Investing in UniFi is about more than just hardware. It means building a long-term, scalable security infrastructure that adapts to your needs. UniFi Protect and UniFi Access work better together, giving you the ability to log entry events with corresponding video footage, configure access by user role or schedule, and manage everything from a single interface. With powerful AI, zero licence fees and unmatched integration, UniFi offers exceptional value for modern businesses seeking professional-grade security.

Best Practices for Maintaining a Secure UniFi Setup

• Keep UniFi OS and firmware regularly updated

• Use UniFi Protect and Access together to link entry events with video verification

• Enable smart alerts and maintain audit logs

• Assign user roles carefully and limit admin privileges

• Back up your UniFi configuration for disaster recovery

Build a Smarter, Safer Network with UniFi

With no subscription costs, deep integration and powerful scalability, UniFi Protect and UniFi Access offer a reliable and future-proof approach to security. Whether you're protecting a small office or managing security across multiple sites, the UniFi ecosystem gives you the flexibility and control to grow with confidence.

To learn more about UniFi security cameras and access solutions available through MS Dist, speak to our team - we’re here to help.

You can also visit Ubiquiti for more resources.