Things you should know about Unifi Protect Cameras.

If you’re setting up a surveillance system, especially for a business, property, or home, UniFi Protect cameras are a popular choice due to their scalability, quality, and integration into a single ecosystem. But with multiple camera models available, how do you know which is right for your needs? In this guide, we’ll explore the full UniFi Protect camera range, compare different models within the line up, and discuss how they stack up against some third-party alternatives. We will also go over how Unifi Protect now support ONVIF third-party devices in a recent release.

As UniFi continues to expand its range of cameras, understanding the best options for different use cases is essential. In this blog, we explore the latest UniFi Protect cameras available on the official UK store, comparing features, connectivity options (Wi-Fi vs. Ethernet), and the ideal environments for each model.


UniFi Protect Camera Range Overview

Here’s a look at the most current line up of UniFi cameras, organized by series:

G4 Series:

  • G4 Bullet
  • G4 Instant
  • G4 Dome
  • G4 Pro
  • G4 PTZ
  • G4 Doorbell Pro

G5 Series:

  • G5 Bullet
  • G5 Dome
  • G5 Dome Ultra
  • G5 Flex
  • G5 Pro
  • G5 PTZ

AI Series:

  • AI Pro
  • AI 360
  • AI Theta
  • AI DSLR
Camera SeriesResolutionNight VisionConnectivitySmart FeaturesBest Use cases
G3 Series1080p (Full HD)IR, up to 10mPoEMotion detection, basic alertsEntry-level indoor/outdoor monitoring
G4 Series2K (4MP) / 4K (8MP)IR, up to 25mPoE (some Wi-Fi)AI object detection (person, vehicle), smart alertsAdvanced home/business security
G5 Series2K (4MP) / 4K (8MP)IR, up to 30mPoESmart detection (person, vehicle, package)High-performance surveillance
AI Series2K (AI 360) / 4K (AI Pro) / DSLR-quality (AI DSLR)IR, up to 50mPoEAI-enhanced motion detection, smart event classificationAI-driven analytics and facial recognition
IR = Infrared PoE = Power over Ethernet AI= Artificial intelligence

G3 Series (Entry-Level)

The G3 series is the most budget-friendly, designed for users who want basic surveillance without sacrificing quality. The cameras in this range offer:

  • Resolution: 1080p (Full HD).
  • Night Vision: Infrared (IR) up to 10 meters.
  • Connectivity: PoE (Power-over-Ethernet).
  • Smart Features: Motion detection and basic alerts.
  • Best for: Small businesses, residential properties, and users with basic surveillance needs.

While reliable, the G3 cameras lack advanced AI and object detection, making them less suitable for environments that require intelligent event categorization.

G4 Series (Mid-Range)

The G4 series steps up with improved video quality and smart features:

  • Resolution: Ranges from 4MP (2K) to 8MP (4K).
  • Night Vision: IR up to 25 meters, with options like the G4 Pro featuring high-performance night vision.
  • Connectivity: PoE, with some models (like the G4 Doorbell Pro) supporting Wi-Fi.
  • Smart Features: AI object detection, recognizing people, vehicles, and even packages.
  • Best for: Homes or businesses requiring advanced security monitoring with smart detection, such as monitoring vehicle access or entrances.

Notable Models:

  • G4 Pro: For large areas, thanks to its 4K resolution.
  • G4 Dome: Ideal for indoor environments due to its discreet design.

G5 Series (Next-Gen)

The G5 series is the latest and features several enhancements over the G4 series:

  • Resolution: 4MP (2K) to 8MP (4K), delivering ultra-clear images.
  • Night Vision: Enhanced IR with up to 30 meters of visibility in complete darkness.
  • Connectivity: PoE only, offering stable connections and simplified cabling.
  • Smart Features: Includes smart detection for people, vehicles, and packages, with enhanced AI event detection for fewer false alarms.
  • Best for: Users needing high-performance security for large areas, both indoor and outdoor, such as warehouses or large homes.

Notable Models:

  • G5 Bullet: Compact yet powerful for outdoor areas.
  • G5 PTZ: Perfect for expansive areas, with pan, tilt, and zoom capabilities.

AI Series (Premium, AI-Driven)

The AI series takes UniFi’s smart features to the next level, using advanced AI algorithms:

  • Resolution: From 4K Ultra HD to DSLR-quality video.
  • Night Vision: Superior night vision capabilities, with ranges up to 50 meters
  • .Connectivity: PoE for high-quality, reliable video streaming.
  • Smart Features: AI-enhanced event detection, with the ability to classify and track complex scenarios. The AI series is also designed to handle facial recognition tasks (though this feature is still under development for broader releases).
  • Best for: Large-scale surveillance environments that require advanced analytics, such as public spaces or high-security sites.

Notable Models:

  • AI Pro: Offers 4K video quality and AI-driven object detection.
  • AI 360: Provides a 360-degree field of view, ideal for large areas that need panoramic coverage.

Wi-Fi vs Ethernet: Why It Matters

Currently, most UniFi Protect cameras rely on Ethernet for connectivity, enabling stable connections and the option for Power over Ethernet (PoE), simplifying installation by removing the need for additional power cables. While Wi-Fi cameras provide more flexibility in placement, Ethernet ensures higher reliability, especially in environments with high data transmission or interference risks.


Mobile Access via the UniFi Protect App

One of the standout features of UniFi cameras is the UniFi Protect app. Available on both iOS and Android, this app allows users to manage and view live feeds remotely.

Key benefits include:

  • Real-Time Notifications: Receive alerts when motion is detected or AI events (like package detection) are triggered.
  • Remote Monitoring: View live feeds and playback recordings from anywhere.
  • Multi-Site Management: Ideal for businesses or users with multiple properties, allowing easy management of several sites from one app.

ONVIF Support on UniFi Protect

As of recent updates, UniFi Protect now supports the ONVIF standard, allowing integration with third-party cameras. ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum) is a global standard that ensures interoperability between IP-based security products. This addition broadens the range of compatible cameras, enabling users to connect non-UniFi devices to their UniFi Protect system.

However, while ONVIF cameras can stream video to UniFi Protect, they do not offer the full range of smart features, such as AI-driven motion detection or detailed alerts that UniFi cameras provide. Users will still benefit from basic video streaming and storage, but advanced event categorization (like vehicle or person detection) remains exclusive to UniFi’s native cameras.

This new feature is especially useful for those looking to incorporate legacy cameras into their system or they are slowly migrating to Unifi Camera’s whilst maintaining site security.


How UniFi Protect Compares to Third-Party Cameras

When evaluating third-party cameras like Hikvision and Reolink, UniFi Protect cameras offer several distinct advantages, especially within the UniFi ecosystem. Here are a few points of comparison:

  1. Hikvision vs UniFi G5 Pro

Resolution: Both offer 4K, but Hikvision tends to offer more specific outdoor-focused models.
Connectivity: Hikvision cameras often support both Ethernet and Wi-Fi, while the UniFi G5 Pro is Ethernet-only.
Key Difference: The seamless integration with the UniFi Protect system, alongside simplified central management, gives the G5 Pro an edge for users within the UniFi ecosystem.

  1. Reolink RLC-820A vs UniFi G5 Flex

Resolution: Both cameras offer high-definition video, with the Reolink at 4K and the G5 Flex at 2K HD.
Connectivity: Reolink supports Ethernet and Wi-Fi, making it more versatile for placement.
Key Difference: While Reolink is highly affordable, the G5 Flex wins in simplicity, particularly for users who already have a UniFi setup, which makes deployment and maintenance easier.


Conclusion

The updated UniFi Protect camera range offers a versatile set of cameras, each suited for different environments and use cases. Whether you’re looking for an entry-level camera for small indoor spaces, or a professional-grade outdoor camera with optical zoom, UniFi Protect has you covered.

While third-party options like Hikvision and Reolink may offer specific advantages, the integration and scalability of UniFi Protect make it the top choice for users already in the UniFi ecosystem.

Would you like more help selecting the perfect camera for your setup? Reach out to us today for expert advice!


SOGEA Broadband: The Future of Business Connectivity in the U.K.

In today’s fast-paced digital world, reliable and efficient internet connectivity is crucial for any business. With the gradual phasing out of traditional copper lines, companies are turning to more advanced broadband solutions like SOGEA (Single Order Generic Ethernet Access). But what exactly is SOGEA, and why should your business consider making the switch?

SOGEA Broadband eliminates the need for a traditional phone line, providing businesses with a direct internet connection. It’s a modern alternative to ADSL and FTTC broadband, ensuring faster speeds and more reliable connections without the need for landline infrastructure.

The rise of hybrid working models, cloud computing, video conferencing, and data-heavy applications has made symmetrical broadband solutions more important than ever. As businesses embrace these technologies, having fast upload speeds is just as crucial as download speeds.


Key Features of SOGEA Broadband

Before diving into the benefits, let’s break down the core features that make SOGEA broadband stand out:

  1. Symmetrical Speeds – Equal upload and download speeds (up to 1 Gbps).
  2. Ultra-Low Latency – Minimised delay for real-time applications like video conferencing and VoIP.
  3. 100% Fibre-Optic Network – No reliance on old copper lines, ensuring a more stable and faster connection.
  4. Scalability – Ability to scale bandwidth up or down based on your business needs.
  5. Dedicated Business Support – Business-grade customer support to resolve issues quickly and efficiently.

Why SOGEA Broadband is a Must for U.K. Businesses

Here are 5 key benefits of switching to SOGEA Broadband for your business:

1. Superior Performance for Cloud Applications

With the rise of cloud computing, more businesses are relying on services like Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and hosted storage solutions. Slow upload speeds can hinder the efficiency of cloud-based tools, causing frustration for employees and downtime for businesses. SOGEA’s symmetrical speeds enable businesses to upload large files, access cloud storage, and run SaaS applications seamlessly without interruptions.

2. Reliable Video Conferencing and VoIP

In the modern business world, video meetings and Voice over IP (VoIP) services are essential. Poor internet connectivity can lead to jittery video calls, dropped connections, and latency issues, which can be embarrassing and costly in important meetings. SOGEA’s low-latency ensures that your video conferences run smoothly and your VoIP systems operate without glitches.

3. Uninterrupted Data Transfers

Businesses regularly transfer large amounts of data between locations or to the cloud. Whether it’s uploading financial data to a secure server or backing up files to the cloud, traditional broadband often struggles with these tasks. SOGEA broadband’s high-speed upload capacity ensures that even the heaviest data transfers happen quickly, without affecting your network’s overall performance.

4. Scalability for Growing Businesses

One of the major advantages of SOGEA broadband is its scalability. As your business grows and your data demands increase, you can easily scale your broadband package. Whether you’re expanding your team, moving to new offices, or adopting new digital tools, SOGEA broadband can grow with you, ensuring you’re always equipped to meet your connectivity needs.

5. Improved Cybersecurity with Fibre

Fibre-optic connections, such as those used in SOGEA broadband, are less vulnerable to interference and tapping compared to copper-based systems. This makes it harder for cybercriminals to breach your network. For businesses that handle sensitive information, such as financial services, law firms, and healthcare providers, SOGEA broadband offers an added layer of security and peace of mind.


The U.K. Infrastructure: Ready for SOGEA Broadband

The U.K. has been steadily investing in fibre infrastructure to support faster, more reliable internet services. Major cities like London, Manchester, and Leeds already benefit from expansive fibre networks, making them prime locations for businesses to adopt SOGEA broadband.

As part of the U.K. government’s Project Gigabit, plans are in place to roll out fibre connections to more rural areas, ensuring that even businesses in more remote locations can benefit from high-speed, symmetrical internet.

Businesses in industrial hubs and tech-heavy regions will find that the fibre networks supporting SOGEA broadband allow them to stay ahead of their competitors by leveraging new technologies, real-time data analytics, and digital transformation initiatives. Why not find out if your business can benefit from a service like this?

SOGEA vs Traditional Broadband: Why It’s Worth the Investment

When considering the switch to SOGEA broadband, many businesses might wonder if the investment is worth it. The simple answer is: yes. While traditional broadband may be sufficient for basic internet browsing and email, SOGEA broadband is essential for modern businesses that rely on cloud platforms, VoIP systems, video conferencing, and continuous data exchange.

The return on investment (ROI) for businesses adopting SOGEA broadband is evident in reduced downtime, faster operations, better employee collaboration, and the ability to stay competitive in an increasingly digital market. With SOGEA’s robust features, businesses can future-proof their connectivity needs and stay agile in an ever-changing technological landscape.


Conclusion

For U.K. businesses seeking a reliable, high-performance internet solution, SOGEA broadband is the clear choice. Whether you’re a small enterprise or a large corporation, the benefits of symmetrical speeds, low latency, and fibre-optic technology cannot be ignored. By investing in SOGEA broadband, you’re not just upgrading your internet – you’re setting your business up for future success.

If you’re ready to explore how SOGEA broadband can transform your business connectivity, get in touch with a trusted provider today and experience the future of broadband for businesses.

The ISDN Switch-Off in the UK: What It Means and How to Prepare

The Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) has been a cornerstone of business communications for decades, providing voice and data services over traditional copper phone lines. However, with advancements in technology, ISDN is reaching the end of its life. In this blog, we’ll explain why the ISDN service in the UK is being turned off, when this will happen, and what options businesses have to replace their ISDN lines with modern solutions like VoIP and SIP Trunks

Why is ISDN Being Turned Off in the UK?

The ISDN switch-off in the UK is part of a larger global trend as telecom providers move away from legacy systems in favour of modern, digital communications technologies. BT, the UK’s largest telecom provider, announced the phased switch-off of ISDN services back in 2015, signalling the shift toward All-IP (Internet Protocol) networks.

The main reasons behind this decision include:

  • Aging Infrastructure: ISDN relies on old copper lines that are costly to maintain and less reliable than fibre networks.
  • Better Technologies Available: Modern solutions such as VoIP (Voice over IP) and SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) offer higher quality, flexibility, and features at a lower cost.
  • Future-Proofing: Moving to a digital IP-based network allows businesses to future-proof their communication systems for integration with cloud-based services and advanced technologies like Unified Communications.

When Will ISDN Be Turned Off?

The ISDN switch-off in the UK is scheduled for December 2025, but businesses are encouraged to migrate before this deadline to avoid any disruption. The gradual withdrawal of services has already started, with new ISDN installations no longer available since 2020. By the end of 2025, all ISDN lines will be decommissioned, making it essential for businesses to switch to a modern alternative like VoIP or SIP trunks.


What Are the Options for Replacing ISDN?

As ISDN is being phased out, businesses need to transition to newer technologies. The most common alternatives are VoIP or also known as SIP Trunks but both of which offer significant benefits over traditional ISDN services.

1. VoIP (Voice over IP)

VoIP allows you to make voice calls using a broadband internet connection instead of traditional phone lines. It’s a versatile solution that can be used on multiple devices, including IP phones, computers, and smartphones. Here’s why VoIP is a great replacement for ISDN:

  • Cost-Effective: VoIP eliminates the need for separate phone lines, reducing costs.
  • Scalability: VoIP can easily scale to meet the needs of growing businesses.
  • Remote Work: Employees can make and receive calls from anywhere with an internet connection.
  • Advanced Features: Many VoIP systems come with features like call routing, voicemail-to-email, and video conferencing.

2. SIP Trunks

SIP Trunks are a form of VoIP technology specifically designed to replace traditional phone lines. SIP Trunks connect your existing on-premise PBX (Private Branch Exchange) system to the internet, allowing you to make calls over the internet while keeping your current phone system in place. Some of the key benefits include:

  • Cost Savings: Like VoIP, SIP Trunks use your existing internet connection, which reduces costs.
  • Compatibility: SIP Trunks work with traditional phone systems, so you don’t need to invest in new hardware.
  • Scalability: Easily add or remove lines as your business grows or downsizes.
  • Reliability: Most providers offer redundancy and failover options, ensuring continuity in case of an outage.

Preparing for the ISDN Switch-Off in the UK

With the switch-off in the UK fast approaching, businesses should start planning their transition to modern solutions now. Waiting until the last minute could lead to service interruptions, higher costs, and missed opportunities to benefit from advanced communication technologies.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing for the switch-off:

  1. Evaluate Your Current System: Assess your existing ISDN setup and determine whether VoIP or SIP Trunks are the best fit for your business.
  2. Consult with a Specialist: A telecom consultant or managed service provider (MSP) can help guide you through the transition.
  3. Upgrade Your Network: Ensure your internet connection can support the increased bandwidth required for VoIP or SIP trunking.
  4. Choose a Provider: Select a reliable VoIP or SIP trunk provider that offers good support, scalability, and failover options.
  5. Test and Transition: Run tests on your new system to ensure smooth operation before fully decommissioning your ISDN lines.

Conclusion

The ISDN switch-off in the UK is inevitable, and businesses need to act now to avoid disruption. VoIP and SIP Trunks provide superior, cost-effective alternatives that not only replace ISDN but also offer enhanced features for modern communications. By preparing early, you can make the transition smooth and unlock the benefits of a future-proof communications system.

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