In short
The Omada controller can be a hardware unit on the network, software on your own server or virtual machine, the Omada Central cloud platform or a gateway that integrates it. All centralise configuration and monitoring; they differ in where data lives, the maintenance needed and the features available in each mode.
Comparison
| Option | Advantages | Bear in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Hardware controller | Everything on site; remote access available. | One more device to power and back up. |
| Software on own server | Flexible; uses an existing server. | The server and its backups need maintaining. |
| Cloud (Omada Central) | No local device; ideal for several sites. | Some advanced features depend on the licence tier. |
| Gateway with built-in controller | One device for routing and management. | Suited to small and medium networks. |
What happens if the controller goes down
Access points and switches keep working with the last configuration received. While the controller is unavailable you lose statistics, some services such as the guest portal in certain modes, and the ability to make changes.
How we choose
- Number of devices and sites to manage.
- Whether the client wants network data on site or is happy with the cloud.
- Whether a guest portal, site-to-site VPN or other advanced features are needed.
- Who will maintain the system and how remote support will work.