Ubiquiti vs. Cisco – Which is the Best Router?

A router is a key networking device for the internet connection in a home or office. It is a device that establishes communication between the internet and the devices connected to the internet. So basically, the router performs traffic-directing functions by forwarding data packets between the devices and the internet. It connects two or more packet-switched networks and also allows multiple devices to connect with the same internet connection.

Many of us who have used routers for a long time, must know how difficult it is to pick the right one for particular needs. Different routers come with different features or compatibilities for connectivity options, speed limitations, connection types, and the number of devices to be connected to serve specific purposes. Some people don’t find a USB port so useful for their specific kind of uses and some need it to share USB printers or external drives within the network. Also, a guest Wi-Fi option is an interesting feature to have in your router in homes and business settings. This feature allows you to share separate secure wireless networks to meet specific connectivity requirements.

There are many router brands available in the market but no one comes closer to Cisco and Ubiquiti when it comes to high-quality performance and connectivity options. In this post, we will compare both brands to help you decide which one to choose for your specific purpose.

Cisco vs Ubiquiti: Which is the Best Router?

Cisco

Cisco routers come with a comprehensive solution for all kinds of connectivity requirements in any establishment. Its Internet Operating System (IOS) is integrated into most of Cisco’s network equipment and hence the configuration of each Cisco router is similar in terms of traffic-directing functions. Cisco’s IOS performs most of the networking functions to ensure highly protected and high-speed traffic connections between devices. Cisco routers are also known for establishing highly secured connections to prevent unauthorized network access and all forms of threats to your data and network.

Cisco routers provide great scalability options to expand networks without investing in other devices. In terms of scalability, you can select between two designs – with a fixed chassis and with a modular chassis as per your plans. A router with a modular chassis is the best option if you have plans to expand your network in the future. You can add ports and interfaces as per your expansion plan and design options to solve your network problems. One thing to note here is that you can get rid of existing interfaces and ports during your expansion plans.

You can establish the connection of a wireless network, wired network, LAN, or WAN network as per the demands. Security features are highly restricted in Cisco routers but you can easily control and manage them to suit your strategies.

What we like 

• Easy to scale and upgrade for the growth of a network
• Uses integrated IOS to prevent unauthorized access
• Easy to set up and install
• Easy to establish connections between the subnets to route traffic

What we don’t like

• You may need an IT expert to install the device perfectly
• Initial installation cost is pretty high

Ubiquiti

Unlike Cisco, Ubiquiti doesn’t provide a comprehensive solution for all your networking options as the configuration of each Ubiquiti router is different. But, if you are looking for something with powerful software and functions within a budget, there are several effective routers under the belt of Ubiquiti. The brand provides an intuitive user interface in its routers to let users have access to performance updates.

The best thing about Ubiquiti routers is that you can manage your router through your smartphone and customize settings to meet your specific needs. For example, you can configure the network management functions and routing security features for the most efficient and effective network operations. Some other important features you get with Ubiquiti routers include:

VLAN interface

Restricting broadcast domains
Reducing broadcast traffic
Easy to management

VLAN interface helps the user improve their network performance by managing broadcast domains as per specific network functions. You can either pick the centralized control through Ubiquiti’s network management system (UNMS) with an easy graphical user interface to manage your controls and settings or use a mobile app for this purpose. You can download the mobile app from Google Play or App Store for smartphone management of your router.

What we like

Setting up and Installation of the router is easy
Very powerful and high-speed network functions and connections
The routers are very reliable
Comes with many advanced security features

What we don’t like

Very limited hardware options
Use and management is not so easy

Both Cisco and Ubiquiti routers have powerful features and software with advanced security options. They are a great choice for all kinds of networking requirements. If you want something for a commercial establishment, then choosing a Cisco router is the right option because of its scalability. But, if you want something more affordable without compromising security features, Ubiquiti routers are the best choice.

Author: TechBlonHub

As a passionate blogger, I'm thrilled to share my expertise, insights, and enthusiasm with you. I believe that technical knowledge should be shared, not hoarded. That's why I take the time to craft detailed, well-researched content that's easy to follow, even for non-tech. I love hearing from you, answering your questions, and learning from your experiences. Your feedback helps me create content that's tailored to your needs and interests