Is your UniFi networking setup not as clean as it could be? Whether you have an access point just sitting on your desk or you want to make your Dream Router look more like a decoration than a piece of networking equipment, here are 5 ways to use 3D printing to make your UniFi setup cleaner.

Access point stand

Some access points don’t need to be wall mounted

While access points are definitely designed to be wall- or ceiling-mounted, that’s not always possible. In those instances, the easiest option is often to just set it on a table. The problem is, that it rarely looks good.

That’s where a simple access point stand comes in. There are a number of access point stands available throughout the 3D printing world, but you’ll want to make sure to find the one that matches your specific model.

Once you find it, then it’s a pretty simple 3D print and mount. Just twist your access point into the stand and it’ll support it. Most stands have integrated cable management from the bottom, so that there are no exposed cables, either.

So, if you have an access point just sitting on a desk or table somewhere, print a stand for it. It’ll look nicer and possibly even deliver better coverage.

UFO stand

Elevate the look of any access point

Credit: Flat Duck Fridays | MakerWorld

In the same vein as the stand above, there’s the UFO stand. This has long been a running joke in the UniFi community, as the access points do look like UFOs. So, why not play on the joke?

Instead of having your access point sit on a table or be mounted to a boring stand, you can elevate it a bit by making it really look like a UFO. There are a number of models for this, and some even have it look like the UFO is picking something up with its tractor beam.

This print is fairly simple and shouldn’t take a ton of filament, so if you want to add some otherworldly charm to your UniFi setup, then a UFO stand is the perfect solution.

Mini rack

Tidy up your networking gear

Credit: akidone | MakerWorld

If you have a few desktop-style components as part of your UniFi kit, then a small 3D printed rack is the perfect way to tidy things up.

There are more mini-rack 3D prints out there than I could count, so you really can take your pick of which one you do.

You’ll find mini racks that can house things like a Cloud Gateway, switches, patch panels, and so much more. Plus, these mini racks can also house non-UniFi gear, too, like Raspberry Pis, non-managed switches, mini PCs, and much more.

A mini rack is the perfect addition to any homelab, whether you’re just starting out or have been running one for years.

URD2 stand

May the force be with you

Credit: deedogg | MakerWorld

This is for the Star Wars fans among us—myself included. I absolutely love the idea of putting my Dream Router 7 into an R2-D2, or a UR-D2, shell. It sits there perfectly and blends in as if it were designed as part of the Star Wars universe.

This print does take a while, so it’s not for the faint of heart or those who are afraid of filament purge and waste, so do be warned.

However, it’s an awesome-looking print that is sure to take your UniFi Dream Router from standing out as a piece of networking gear to blending in as a piece of decor.

Travel router MagSafe adapter

Magnets, magnets everywhere

Credit: Chandler | MakerWorld

The UniFi Travel Router is one piece of tech that I have yet to purchase but I want it so bad. It’s a great way to provide yourself Wi-Fi when all you have is a wired connection, or when all you have is a single device captive portal connection.

However you use the Travel Router, it’s an extremely useful piece of tech. The problem is, sometimes you need to use it while on the go and it’s not all that convenient to plug in and hold. That’s where this MagSafe case comes in.

It’s a simple shell case for the Travel Router that you embed some magnets in during the print. The way it’s designed, you’re able to magnetically attach the Travel Router to things like battery banks, mounts, or even your phone.

So, stop using rubber bands or hair ties to attach your Travel Router to a battery and just use magnets.

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  Build Volume

  256x256x256mm

  Printing Speed

  600mm/s

  Brand

  Bambu Lab

  Max Hot End Temp

  300C

  Max Bed Temp

  110C

  Nozzle

  Hardened 0.4mm

  The Bambu Labs P2S 3D printer is ready to go out of the box and can have you printing within 15 minutes. It features up to 20-color printing with the AMS unit, has an upgraded built-in camera for remote monitoring and time lapses, and has an enclosed body for printing even high-temperature filament.

  
  

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  Build Volume

  256 × 256 × 256 mm

  Connectivity

  Wi-Fi

  Heated Build Plate

  Yes

  Top Print Speed

  ≤500 mm/s

  Max Plate Temperature

  110°C

  Max Print Temperature

  350°C

  The ELEGOO Centauri Carbon 2 builds on the solid foundation of its predecessor and adds an affordable, effective multicolor system to the mix.

  
  

3D printing opens up worlds you probably never even knew existed

My favorite part about 3D printing is finding all the things that I never knew I needed, then spending less than $1 to make it a reality. It’s pretty magical when you think about it.

3D printing opens up entire new worlds to explore—especially when it comes to organization or functional items. Sometimes a product would be low-volume enough that a company wouldn’t manufacture it and sell it, but there would still be buyers. That’s exactly where 3D printing comes in.

If you’ve been holding off on buying a 3D printer, it’s time to pick one up. They’re cheaper than ever while providing a better print quality than I’ve ever seen, so now is the perfect time to get started with the hobby.