The Ubiquiti UniFi Protect AI Key (AI-Key) is a smart access control device designed to bring advanced facial recognition capabilities to the UniFi ecosystem. As part of Ubiquiti’s expanding line of AI-powered security solutions, the AI-Key serves as a centralized, privacy-focused face recognition engine that integrates seamlessly with UniFi Protect systems. It enables efficient, secure, and scalable face-based authentication for UniFi Door Access installations.
At its core, the AI-Key is an AI-powered device that offloads facial recognition processing from UniFi Access Readers, enabling faster authentication without sacrificing privacy or performance. This powerful unit connects directly to the UniFi OS Console and uses advanced machine learning models to process facial data locally, eliminating the need for cloud-based data processing and ensuring that all biometric information remains secure and private within your local network.
Physically, the AI-Key is compact and sleek, measuring 13.42 x 13.12 x 3.37 cm and weighing approximately 0.635 kg, making it easy to integrate into any server rack, console cabinet, or network shelf. The device is powered via PoE (Power over Ethernet), minimizing cable clutter and simplifying deployment in modern enterprise or commercial environments. Its silent, fanless design makes it ideal for office spaces and security control rooms where noise levels must be kept to a minimum.
The AI-Key supports the UniFi Access platform and integrates specifically with devices such as the UA-Pro and UA-Lite readers. It works in real time to analyze and recognize authorized individuals based on registered facial profiles. Once detected, the AI-Key triggers access permissions through the UniFi Access Control system, streamlining entry and enhancing the security posture of your facility.
Administrators can manage all functionality through the UniFi Access web interface or the UniFi mobile app, where AI-Key status, logs, and facial profile configurations can be reviewed and updated. Ubiquiti ensures enterprise-grade security by processing all sensitive facial recognition data locally on the device, which is stored and managed in compliance with privacy best practices.
The AI-Key also enables scalability. In large deployments, multiple AI-Key units can be deployed across various doors or entry points to offload facial recognition processing without requiring complex network infrastructure upgrades. Whether used in high-traffic commercial properties, offices, or secure buildings, the AI-Key enables smarter access with lower latency and greater reliability than traditional cloud-based systems.
In conclusion, the Ubiquiti UniFi Protect AI Key is an advanced, reliable, and secure addition to any UniFi Access deployment, designed to enhance physical security through fast and private facial recognition authentication—fully managed from the UniFi interface and tailored for enterprise environments.