UniFi Network 9.0 brings a wealth of new features aimed at enhancing deployment efficiency, security, and scalability. With a focus on simplifying firewall management, bolstering security through Proofpoint-backed threat intelligence, expanding SD-WAN capabilities, and introducing a powerful local API, this release marks a significant evolution in the UniFi ecosystem.
At SeraphimGate Systems, we have already migrated our primary lab to UniFi 9.0 to evaluate its real-world performance before rolling it out to all clients. Here’s our take on the most impactful updates.
Zone-Based Firewall Rules: A Game Changer for Network Segmentation
One of the most anticipated features in UniFi 9.0 is zone-based firewall rules. Unlike traditional per-VLAN rules, this system allows network engineers to group devices and services into logical zones (e.g., Internal, External, Gateway, VPN) and apply security policies at scale.
This is a much-needed addition, especially for those managing complex networks, as it significantly reduces rule clutter and minimizes potential configuration mistakes. We’ve found the visual representation of the zones to be intuitive and a huge step forward compared to UniFi’s previous approach.
Zone-based firewalls have long been a staple of enterprise-grade solutions like Sophos, pfSense, and SonicWall, making this a welcome upgrade for SMBs leveraging UniFi. (Check out our previous post on SMB firewall options here).
Initial Impressions
Visually clear:Â The UI makes it easier to understand relationships between network segments.
Efficient rule management:Â Reduces the number of individual rules needed.
Improved documentation:Â Descriptions can now be added to each rule, making it easier to track policy intent.
UniFi CyberSecure: Powered by Proofpoint
UniFi’s new CyberSecure feature enhances the gateway’s built-in IDS/IPS by integrating Proofpoint threat intelligence, ensuring rapid detection and response to emerging threats. This comes in two tiers:
CyberSecure ($99/year):Â Over 55,000 threat signatures, ideal for mid-sized deployments, with an optimized memory mode for lower-end gateways.
CyberSecure Enterprise ($499/year):Â Over 95,000 threat signatures, tailored for large-scale networks using high-end gateways like the Enterprise Fortress Gateway (EFG).
Unlike traditional cloud-based security models, CyberSecure operates locally on the gateway, reducing latency and maintaining data privacy. We’ve started testing CyberSecure in our lab, and while it will take time to gather substantial performance data, the $99/year price tag appears to be a reasonable investment for those needing comprehensive and continuously updated threat protection.
However, this signals a shift in UniFi’s business model. While historically UniFi has focused on affordable hardware with no recurring costs, we’ve noticed a growing trend towards optional subscriptions. For example, UniFi Identity, which we use for secure, 2FA-backed VPN deployments, requires a $5 per user per month license. While still more affordable than competitors, it indicates that UniFi is moving upmarket into the realm of enterprise IT solutions, where annual subscription costs can reach thousands of dollars.
SiteMagic SD-WAN: Scaling to 1,000 Locations
UniFi 9.0 dramatically expands SiteMagic SD-WAN, now supporting up to 1,000 locations in a hub-and-spoke topology. This is a massive win for multi-site businesses that need an affordable, scalable networking solution. Unlike many competitors, UniFi keeps SD-WAN license-free, significantly reducing operational costs.
Key Upgrades:
Mesh Mode:Â Ideal for smaller setups with up to 20 interconnected sites.
Hub-and-Spoke Mode:Â Supports up to 1,000 locations, offering redundant failover hubs for disaster recovery. This will be a powerful tool for bushiness with a large number of locations such as chains and retail stores.
No licensing fees:Â A major advantage over other SD-WAN solutions.
This makes SD-WAN deployment viable even for SMBs, removing the typical cost barriers associated with proprietary SD-WAN licensing.
Local Network API: Deeper Customization and Automation
UniFi Network 9.0 introduces a Local Network API, providing direct control over deployments without relying on cloud services. This enables custom automation and deep integration into existing IT workflows.
Key Features:
Device Control:Â Reboot devices, retrieve status details, and monitor performance.
Real-Time Monitoring:Â Track CPU, memory, and network performance for Wi-Fi, wired, and VPN clients.
Multi-Site Oversight:Â Manage and analyze data across multiple UniFi sites efficiently.
Current Limitations and Future Potential
At present, the API is quite basic, offering only fundamental controls and monitoring capabilities. While useful, we are eager to see how Ubiquiti expands API functionality in future releases. With additional development, it could become a powerful tool for automation, integrations, and real-time analytics beyond these initial capabilities.
This is an exciting development for businesses that require more granular control over their networks. We’re currently testing automation workflows that integrate UniFi data into custom dashboards and alerting systems, and the potential looks promising.
Final Thoughts: A Step Forward, But Also a Business Model Shift
UniFi Network 9.0 is a significant update, bringing powerful new features that close the gap between SMB and enterprise networking solutions. The zone-based firewall system and CyberSecure IPS/IDS enhancements make UniFi more competitive against traditional enterprise firewalls, while the expanded SD-WAN capabilities offer cost-effective multi-site networking at scale.
However, the increasing reliance on subscription-based features like CyberSecure and UniFi Identity indicates that UniFi is evolving beyond its original low-cost hardware model. While these services remain affordable compared to traditional enterprise solutions, businesses relying heavily on UniFi should be prepared for potential long-term subscription expenses.
At SeraphimGate Systems, we’re continuing to test these new features before rolling them out to our clients. If you’re considering an upgrade or need help optimizing your UniFi deployment, we’re here to help. Contact us today for a consultation!
What do you think of UniFi 9.0? Are you excited about the new features, or concerned about the shift towards subscription-based services? Let us know in the comments below!