Ubiquiti EdgeRouter 4: features, specs and who it suits

The Ubiquiti EdgeRouter 4 is a compact wired router from the EdgeMax line. It has no Wi-Fi: its job is to route traffic between your internet connection and your local network, with more control than a typical home router. Here is what the specs mean and who it is aimed at.

What kind of router this is

Ubiquiti describes EdgeRouters as combining carrier-class reliability with enterprise-level features in a compact unit. In practice, that means a router configured through software settings, with options such as firewall rules, VLANs and routing protocols. It is closer to a network appliance than a plug-and-play consumer box. You will typically pair it with a separate switch and wireless access points.

Ports

The ER-4 offers:

• Three 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet ports, which are Gigabit RJ45 connections for your internet link, local network and other devices.
• One SFP port, for a fibre link or other SFP module, which you supply separately.
• One RJ45 serial port, used for console access to the router, useful for setup and recovery.

Because the port count is small, most networks will connect one port to the internet and another to a switch.

Performance figures

Ubiquiti says the EdgeRouter 4 can route up to 3.4 million packets per second and has a line rate of 4Gbps. Packets per second is a more useful measure of a router's capacity than raw bandwidth, since small packets are harder to process. Those are the brand's figures under its own test conditions. Features such as firewall rules, VPNs or traffic shaping can reduce throughput, so the speed you see depends on your configuration.

Power, cooling and noise

The router has an internal power supply and is fanless, so it makes no fan noise. Ubiquiti lists maximum power consumption of 13 watts. That is low enough for a device that runs all day. Without a fan, it relies on its case for cooling, so leave some airflow around it.

Mounting

You can place the router on a desk, mount it on a wall or fit it in a rack. Mounting hardware varies, so check what the box includes and what a rack needs.

Setting it up

EdgeRouters use the EdgeOS software, set up through a web interface or command line. If you are comfortable with IP addressing, DHCP, NAT and firewall rules, it can be configured to suit a home lab, small office or small business. If you have never configured a router beyond a consumer app, expect a learning curve. Follow Ubiquiti's guides, and keep the firmware updated.

Who it suits

It suits home-lab users, small offices and network hobbyists who want a configurable wired router with a fibre-capable port and low power draw. It is less suited to anyone who wants built-in Wi-Fi, a simple app or a phone-based setup.

What to check before you buy

• Your internet connection: confirm how it arrives (Ethernet, fibre, or a modem) and whether you need extra equipment.
• Wi-Fi: you will need separate access points.
• Port count: three Gigabit ports plus one SFP, so plan a switch.
• Speed needs: compare your connection speed and features to the stated figures.
• SFP module: buy one matching your fibre or copper link, if you want to use that port.
• Firmware and skills: check the support status of the software and your comfort with manual configuration.

The short version

• A compact wired router from Ubiquiti's EdgeMax range, model ER-4.
• Three Gigabit Ethernet ports, one SFP port and a serial console port.
• Up to 3.4 million packets per second and a 4Gbps line rate, per Ubiquiti.
• Fanless, with an internal power supply and up to 13 watts consumption.
• Desk, wall or rack mounting; no Wi-Fi.

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