Hello everyone,
I am currently considering how to set up the network in our house.
In this context, I thought it would be great if some of you could share how you have implemented a high-end network on an individual basis.
I am an IT professional myself, but my focus lies elsewhere. Nevertheless, feel free to get technical—I assume I will understand you.
I am interested in:
- How have you segmented your networks?
- What devices do you use (manufacturer-independent)?
- Which devices (manufacturer-independent) do you group together in which network, and why?
- Which networks do you allow to communicate with each other?
- How have you implemented external access, if desired?
- Do you perhaps have a DMZ?
- In your opinion, what is a “must-have” and what is a “nice-to-have”?
I am currently considering how to set up the network in our house.
In this context, I thought it would be great if some of you could share how you have implemented a high-end network on an individual basis.
I am an IT professional myself, but my focus lies elsewhere. Nevertheless, feel free to get technical—I assume I will understand you.
I am interested in:
- How have you segmented your networks?
- What devices do you use (manufacturer-independent)?
- Which devices (manufacturer-independent) do you group together in which network, and why?
- Which networks do you allow to communicate with each other?
- How have you implemented external access, if desired?
- Do you perhaps have a DMZ?
- In your opinion, what is a “must-have” and what is a “nice-to-have”?
There are certainly many who can provide more detailed input and may even work professionally in this field.
You understand that you will be moving far beyond an all-in-one box (such as a Fritzbox).
"Advanced" is also relative.
Unifi is colorful with clickable options and offers centralized management. Their access points offer great value for money.
If you’re willing to invest more time, MikroTik routers, pfSense, and similar solutions can definitely be alternatives.
HP and Cisco are luxury options.
The new Unifi models also include augmented reality features.
I’m not from the industry. For me, the relatively easy usability combined with the available features was decisive. I can live with the limitations. I also don’t want to have to hire an administrator to manage my network.
Regarding your questions:
- Networks are divided into management (all network devices such as switches, access points, Cloud Key...), cameras, home automation, security, IoT, home network (productive network), guest, outdoor, and VPN. If we had children or if it were necessary for work, I would separate additional networks for these purposes.
- The devices include a cable modem, 10GB router, 10GB switch, 2 x PoE switches (48-port), 1 x switch (48-port), access points, cameras, NAS...
- I have a fairly large NAS plus an expansion card. This allows it to be connected to different networks. Depending on the network, only specific services are provided.
The printer is available on both the home network and the guest network.
TVs, smart speakers, robotic vacuum cleaners, kitchen appliances, charging stations, mailbox, etc. are on the IoT network.
All components of home automation are grouped in one network, as are the cameras.
- Only my three devices (laptop, phone, and tablet) have full access to the other networks. Otherwise, the networks are separated. The home server has access to the camera streams. Mobile phones connect to the IoT network. “Normal access” to the cameras is through the NAS.
- External access is via VPN (on the router). Only two port forwards are opened for non-critical services.
- Currently, I’m running a DMZ. However, this is due to the current situation with my temporary network. Later, there will be a transition to a router.
- Must-haves: sufficient LAN ports and access points. Nice-to-haves: cameras and home automation.
You understand that you will be moving far beyond an all-in-one box (such as a Fritzbox).
"Advanced" is also relative.
Unifi is colorful with clickable options and offers centralized management. Their access points offer great value for money.
If you’re willing to invest more time, MikroTik routers, pfSense, and similar solutions can definitely be alternatives.
HP and Cisco are luxury options.
The new Unifi models also include augmented reality features.
I’m not from the industry. For me, the relatively easy usability combined with the available features was decisive. I can live with the limitations. I also don’t want to have to hire an administrator to manage my network.
Regarding your questions:
- Networks are divided into management (all network devices such as switches, access points, Cloud Key...), cameras, home automation, security, IoT, home network (productive network), guest, outdoor, and VPN. If we had children or if it were necessary for work, I would separate additional networks for these purposes.
- The devices include a cable modem, 10GB router, 10GB switch, 2 x PoE switches (48-port), 1 x switch (48-port), access points, cameras, NAS...
- I have a fairly large NAS plus an expansion card. This allows it to be connected to different networks. Depending on the network, only specific services are provided.
The printer is available on both the home network and the guest network.
TVs, smart speakers, robotic vacuum cleaners, kitchen appliances, charging stations, mailbox, etc. are on the IoT network.
All components of home automation are grouped in one network, as are the cameras.
- Only my three devices (laptop, phone, and tablet) have full access to the other networks. Otherwise, the networks are separated. The home server has access to the camera streams. Mobile phones connect to the IoT network. “Normal access” to the cameras is through the NAS.
- External access is via VPN (on the router). Only two port forwards are opened for non-critical services.
- Currently, I’m running a DMZ. However, this is due to the current situation with my temporary network. Later, there will be a transition to a router.
- Must-haves: sufficient LAN ports and access points. Nice-to-haves: cameras and home automation.
What exactly are your requirements? What do you want to run on your network?
If it’s just for some browsing/streaming plus a printer and a NAS, honestly, I don’t see why it should be made so complicated. I’m an IT professional myself, but at home, it’s nice when things simply work without having to configure too much.
If it’s just for some browsing/streaming plus a printer and a NAS, honestly, I don’t see why it should be made so complicated. I’m an IT professional myself, but at home, it’s nice when things simply work without having to configure too much.
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