Systems · guide for installers

Designing a UniFi network — LAN points, access points and rack

Plan a UniFi network, organise port assignments and design the equipment rack in EH Designer.

Prepared by EnergyHouse · Updated: 19 October 2026

Begin with a list of locations requiring a network connection: workstations, Wi-Fi access points, cameras and technical equipment. Mark them on the floor plan and select a common cable termination location. For an installer, this plan provides a basis for determining cable and port quantities.

EH Designer rack layout: patch panel, power strip, switch and recorder
EH Designer rack layout: patch panel, power strip, switch and recorder. Screenshot of the Polish interface. Demonstration project; appearance and prices may change with updates. Click to enlarge.

Workflow

Choose UniFi models that meet the agreed requirements. Include the patch panel, power distribution and service provider equipment in the rack. Do not allocate every port to an endpoint: links between devices also use ports. Placing access points on a floor plan does not replace measurements or an assessment of actual Wi-Fi coverage.

Choosing a model from the catalogue

Search for the exact model in the appropriate system or manufacturer’s catalogue.

  1. Choose a system in the catalogue and enter a product name or model code. Adjust the category filter if needed.
  2. View opens product information. Select prepares the device for placement; then click its installation location on the plan.
  3. On a computer, you can also drag a product card onto the plan.
  4. After placement, check the object type, cable, route and mounting height in its details.

Prices and stock levels come from the catalogue’s data source. Check current availability before purchasing.

Ports, PoE and network connections

Port counts and power requirements depend on the specific device model.

  1. After adding a switch, check its port count, port types and PoE support.
  2. Assign LAN outlets, cameras and access points to patch panel and switch ports.
  3. Check connections between the ISP router, gateway, switch and controller.
  4. Allow for ports used by connections between devices.
  5. Check the PoE standard and power budget. Controllers and access points may have different power requirements.

Rack cabinet and shelves

The U size specifies the device’s mounting height in the rack.

  1. Choose Rack cabinet from the view menu and set the cabinet size.
  2. Add a switch, recorder or other device using Add to rack, or drag the model into the cabinet.
  3. Check U heights and occupied positions. Add shelves where devices need support.
  4. Move a shelf or change its U position. Check that the moved assembly does not overlap other devices.
  5. Run the cabinet check before exporting documentation.

Selecting actual cable products

In Wiring, configure the cable’s use and select a specific catalogue product.

  1. Go to Floor plan → Wiring and open Cable configuration using the top toolbar icon.
  2. Choose a product for the required function. Check the manufacturer, price per metre and availability.
  3. You can change the cable assigned to an individual point in the device details.
  4. After a change, check the cable schedule and project estimate.

Also consider the operating environment, shielding and conductor type when selecting cables. A similar name does not prove compatibility.

Try it in your own project

Open EH Designer on a computer with a mouse. Start with one room or part of the installation, review the result and expand your project. For available plans, see pricing.

Create an EH Designer account

Related guides