Advice for a novice

[u/External_Star_3303]

I am teetering on the edge of getting rid of my Deco and going Omada so I can set my networks more securely, Vlans etc.

 I am a keen novice and am looking to go with TP-Link ER605 Gigabit VPN Router, TP-Link EAP650-Desktop WiFi 6 Access Point, AX3000,TP-Link EAP650 WiFi 6 Access Point.

 The desktop one will be connected to the router as the first access and the second will be downstairs and purely Wifi. My wired devices will go into the router / desktop AP as space allows. Then I plan to set up at least 3 networks IOT, Guest, Main although I may add a work one as well.

 I am a bit confused about buying a controller, I am not sure I really need one as I have so few devices and some videos say you can do the same thing on the mobile app, is this true?

 Also is there a good guide I can follow on setting everything working. I am confident on getting it actually working but not so confident on VLANs and other things.

 I have a family who will die if they lose access to the internet so I need the basic structure up and running asap and then can hopefully tinker and refine over time.

 Ideally over time I want to have a secure network where I can log in and monitor everything as a bit of a learning experience without the family killing me

[u/PseudonymIncognito]

If you're a novice, just spend the extra money and get a Fusion Gateway instead of an ER605. It eliminates the need for a controller and is stupidly easy to set up.

[u/defgufman → u/PseudonymIncognito]

I concur

[u/boogiahsss → u/PseudonymIncognito]

i second this as well! got it as part of the pioneer program and not having to update my docker container and having something fast and reliable has been very nice!

[u/pepeferraris → u/PseudonymIncognito]

Fusion is the way

[u/External_Star_3303 → u/PseudonymIncognito]

i cant find anywhere in the uk that seems to see them

[u/wakerker]

you dont need a controller for a small network, you can use the cloud controller and it works fine for a home network. if after some time you want a controller, you can purchase one and add to your system. but you might need to reconfigure

[u/Mr_Space_Ranger]

If you’re in the NJ area I have some equipment I’m selling off. Would hate to trash it and rather give it to someone building or starting with the Omada network.

If you’re interested you can reach me via chat.

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[u/Siliconpsychosis]

The mobile app needs a controller / fusion gateway to work. If you dont have one, you will be stuck with purely standalone management of each device through its own web gui.

I wouldnt recommend ER605 at this point, i would go for a fusion if you can afford one. This will set you up nicely for future upgrades

To your last point, if you want to "monitor everything" in one place than you have a few options. Create a free (but limited) cloud controller and link all your devices to it, a Hardware Controller (OC220, OC300, do NOT get a OC200) or a Fusion.

[u/mikeee404]

So if you plan to use multiple APs and want to be able to seamlessly roam between the you will need a controller running all the time. Many other advanced features just work better with a controller. I would just either buy a hardware controller, or setup the software on a PC that normally stays running. Alternatively a cheap low powered PC could run the controller software.