Reference for every major node type in the UniFi topology tree: what it represents and how traffic flows past it.
Gateways, Switches, and Clients in Topology
This reference complements UniFi Network Topology Map Explained and Access Points on the Network Map.
Gateway (edge router)
Examples: USG, UDM, UXG, Dream Router
| Shows in topology | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Left-most or root node | Internet edge for the site |
| Solid line to core switch | LAN handoff |
| May show WAN status elsewhere | Check Settings → Internet |
The gateway routes between VLANs and to the internet. WiFi client traffic goes: Client → AP → switch → gateway → ISP (not through the i2unifi cloud).
Switches
Examples: USW-24-POE, USW-Pro-Max, Flex Mini
| Role | Topology clue |
|---|---|
| Core / aggregation | Many branches, high-speed uplinks (10G, 2.5G) |
| Access switch | APs and desks hang here |
| IoT / camera switch | Often isolated VLAN, fewer WiFi clients |
Port profiles (trunk vs access) determine whether APs receive all VLANs. Wrong profile = AP online in topology but SSID/VLAN broken.
Access points
See Access Points on the Network Map for full detail. Short version:
- Solid in = wired uplink (good)
- Dashed out = WiFi clients (and sometimes mesh)
Wired clients (PC, printer, NVR)
Appear as device icons on solid lines from a switch — not through an AP. Useful to confirm:
- Printer is on the expected switch
- Desktop is on corporate VLAN port
- Camera NVR is on the camera VLAN
Wireless clients
Appear on dashed lines from an AP. Click the client for:
- Roaming history
- AP association changes
- Bandwidth (helps “slow WiFi” tickets)
Cloud Key vs hosted i2unifi
Older sites used a UniFi Cloud Key (shown as a wired device on the LAN). With i2unifi hosting, there is no Cloud Key on your LAN — management goes to your hosted controller URL. Do not expect a controller appliance in your topology tree.
Reading traffic counters on links
Some maps show small numbers on links (for example ← 17 / → 7). These are traffic indicators for that link — useful to spot:
- A port saturating during backups
- An AP uplink bottleneck
Exact format varies by UniFi OS version.
When to use Topology vs other views
| Question | Best view |
|---|---|
| How is this AP cabled? | Topology |
| Who is on Guest WiFi? | Clients (filter SSID) |
| Is WAN up? | Gateway / Internet settings |
| Firmware outdated? | Devices → Updates |
| VLAN misconfiguration | Settings → Networks + switch port profiles |