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How to Migrate UniFi Controller to Cloud Key?

How to Migrate UniFi Controller to Cloud Key: Complete Guide by OpsNexa

UniFi Controllers are essential for managing UniFi network devices like switches, access points, and security gateways. Traditionally, many IT admins run their controller software on a local PC or server. However, migrating the UniFi Controller to a UniFi Cloud Key is an increasingly popular solution for simplifying infrastructure and enabling remote management.

In this step-by-step guide, OpsNexa walks you through how to migrate a UniFi Controller to a UniFi Cloud Key—safely, efficiently, and without losing your configuration or device management.

🧠 What is a UniFi Cloud Key?

The UniFi Cloud Key is a small device designed by Ubiquiti that hosts the UniFi Network Controller software. It acts as a dedicated management device for UniFi hardware—eliminating the need for a full server or always-on PC.

✅ Benefits of Using a Cloud Key:

  • Lightweight, plug-and-play setup

  • Lower power consumption

  • Centralized, always-on management

  • Built-in backup capabilities

  • Remote access via UniFi cloud

⚙️ Why Migrate Your Controller to a Cloud Key?

At OpsNexa, we often recommend moving the controller to a Cloud Key for clients looking to:

  • Eliminate server maintenance overhead

  • Improve remote management

  • Reduce power costs

  • Secure a more stable, dedicated platform

Migrating to a Cloud Key is ideal for SMBs, schools, clinics, and retail setups with limited infrastructure.

🛠️ Pre-Migration Checklist

Before migration, ensure you have the following ready:

📝 What You Need:

  • An existing UniFi Controller installed (Windows, macOS, or Linux)

  • A new UniFi Cloud Key Gen2 or Gen2+

  • Admin access to both controllers

  • Backup of your current UniFi Controller

  • A stable network and internet connection

💡 Tip from OpsNexa: Always update both controllers to the same software version before migration. Mismatched versions can cause compatibility issues.

🔄 Step-by-Step: How to Migrate UniFi Controller to Cloud Key

Here is the migration process that OpsNexa uses for seamless UniFi Controller transfers:

✅ Step 1: Backup the Original Controller

Start by creating a backup of your existing UniFi Controller.

  1. Log in to your UniFi Controller dashboard.

  2. Navigate to Settings > System > Backup.

  3. Click Download Backup.

  4. Save the .unf file securely.

🔐 This backup file contains all your site data, including devices, settings, and statistics.

✅ Step 2: Prepare the Cloud Key

  1. Connect the Cloud Key to your local network.

  2. Power it on using PoE (Power over Ethernet) or USB-C (for Gen2).

  3. Use a browser to navigate to https://unifi.ui.com or use the IP address found in your DHCP leases.

  4. Log in to the Cloud Key UI and complete the initial setup.

  5. Make sure the firmware and controller software are up to date.

✅ Step 3: Restore the Backup on the Cloud Key

  1. Go to the Cloud Key’s UniFi Network Controller.

  2. On the initial screen, select Restore from Backup.

  3. Upload the .unf backup file created earlier.

  4. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the restore process.

This restores your existing site, devices, and settings onto the Cloud Key.

⚠️ Do not try to “adopt” the same devices on the Cloud Key manually—they will automatically appear if the backup is restored correctly.

✅ Step 4: Adjust Inform URL (if needed)

If your UniFi devices don’t automatically connect to the Cloud Key after restore, you may need to manually point them using the set-inform method.

Method A: SSH into each UniFi device

  1. SSH into the access point using:

    kotlin
    ssh ubnt@<device_ip>

  2. Run the command:

    cpp
    set-inform http://<cloud_key_ip>:8080/inform

Method B: Use the UniFi Controller’s Device Settings

If the device shows as “Managed by Other”, click Adopt, and then use the set-inform prompt that appears.

🔄 You may need to repeat the set-inform command twice for devices to successfully re-adopt.

✅ Step 5: Validate Migration

After the restore and inform step, confirm:

  • All devices are visible and adopted

  • Site settings and users are intact

  • Network configurations (SSID, VLANs, firewall rules) are preserved

  • Logs and performance data are restored

✅ Step 6: Decommission the Old Controller

Once you’ve confirmed everything is working:

  1. Shut down or uninstall the old controller software.

  2. Remove any static IP assignments or DNS records pointing to the old controller.

  3. Optionally remove old SSH fingerprints from devices.

🔒 This prevents UniFi devices from attempting to reconnect to the legacy controller.

🌐 Remote Management Setup (Optional)

To manage your Cloud Key from anywhere:

  1. Create or sign in to your Ubiquiti (UI.com) account

  2. Link your Cloud Key to the cloud portal via the Settings > Remote Access menu

  3. Use https://unifi.ui.com to manage from any browser

🧩 Common Issues (and OpsNexa Solutions)

Issue OpsNexa Fix
Devices not re-adopting Use SSH + set-inform command or factory reset if needed
Backup restore fails Ensure software versions match or try restoring on local install first
Cloud Key firmware outdated Update via SSH or Cloud Key UI before migration
Cloud Key inaccessible Check PoE power, IP address, or factory reset
Lost remote access Re-link controller with UI.com account after restore

💡 Best Practices from OpsNexa

  • 💾 Automate backups from Cloud Key using the scheduled backup feature

  • 🌐 Use static IP for the Cloud Key to avoid DHCP lease changes

  • 🔒 Enable 2FA for your Ubiquiti account for added security

  • 🧼 Clean up unused sites or devices post-migration

  • 📆 Document the migration process and configurations for future audits

🧪 When to Consider Managed Migration by OpsNexa

While migrating UniFi Controllers is relatively straightforward, business-critical or large-scale deployments can be complex. OpsNexa offers managed services for:

  • Multi-site UniFi networks

  • Secure VLAN and firewall configuration

  • Redundant setups with UniFi Dream Machine Pro or UDM-SE

  • Remote site-to-site VPN integration

  • Centralized guest portal with analytics

🏁 Final Thoughts

Migrating your UniFi Controller to a Cloud Key simplifies network management, reduces infrastructure overhead, and provides long-term stability. With the right steps and a little patience, it can be done smoothly—even without expert help.

But if you’re managing a complex UniFi deployment or need zero disruption during the transition, OpsNexa is here to help.

📞 Ready to Simplify Your UniFi Setup?

Let OpsNexa manage your UniFi migration and ongoing network operations—so you can focus on growing your business.

👉 Contact us today for a UniFi network assessment or Cloud Key migration assistance.