How to Add an AP to an Existing Controller

Updated 23 June 2025 14:20

Objective: Seamless onboarding of new APs into a live UniFi network.

Physically connect and power on – Ensure the AP is connected to the same Layer‑2 network.
Factory reset (recommended) – Press and hold the reset button for ≥5 seconds to clear old configurations
Launch Controller – Go to “Devices” section; new AP should appear as “Pending Adoption”
If it doesn’t show:
a. SSH into AP (username/password: ubnt/ubnt)
b. Run: set-inform http://<controller-IP>:8080/inform
Adopt the AP – Click "Adopt" in controller; monitor LED to change to steady blue.
Complete configuration – Rename device, assign site, configure SSIDs and radio settings.