The PowerBeam 5AC Gen2 is part of the airMAX AC product line from Ubiquiti, designed for high-performance point-to-point (PtP) and point-to-multipoint (PtMP) wireless links. It uses a directional antenna with airMAX technology, providing:
High throughput (up to 450+ Mbps)
Low latency
Advanced beam directivity for long-distance links (10+ km)
Interference resistance via airView and airMagic
It’s widely used by ISPs, large campuses, remote offices, and video surveillance systems.
If you’re configuring a PowerBeam 5AC device for remote access or surveillance, it’s crucial that your PC or laptop runs smoothly. A sluggish system can delay configuration tasks and hinder performance monitoring. If you’re experiencing issues, check out our full guide on how to fix slow performance on Windows 11 — it includes step-by-step solutions to optimize your system for better speed and reliability.
Use UISP Mobile App for real-time alignment if needed.
Ideal Signal Levels:
Signal Strength
Performance
-50 to -60 dBm
Excellent
-60 to -70 dBm
Good
-70 to -80 dBm
Poor
Also check:
Noise Floor: Below -90 dBm is good
CCQ (Client Connection Quality): >90% is ideal
📊 Step 7: Speed Test & Final Tuning
Use the Speed Test tool in the UI.
Expected speeds: 100–450 Mbps depending on alignment, distance, and interference.
Adjust channel width or frequency as needed.
🔧 Advanced Options (Optional)
Enable Watchdog
Target: 8.8.8.8
Reboot on failure
Enable SSH/SNMP
For remote access and monitoring
VLAN Setup
Useful for advanced ISP configurations
🤖 Use Cases of PowerBeam 5AC
Scenario
Description
Rural Internet Link
Extend internet to a farm or remote house
Building-to-building bridge
Connect two offices without digging cables
CCTV IP camera backhaul
Send video feeds from remote area to central NVR
Temporary events (festivals)
Rapid wireless link setup for internet and video
ISP WISP deployment
Last-mile wireless delivery for rural subscribers
you’re configuring a PowerBeam 5AC device for remote access or surveillance, it’s crucial that your PC or laptop runs smoothly. A sluggish system can delay configuration tasks and hinder performance monitoring.
If you’re experiencing issues, check out our full guide on how to fix slow performance on Windows 11. Additionally, if you’re using the PowerBeam 5AC to connect security systems, don’t miss our detailed Hikvision IP camera tutorial — it walks you through setup, IP assignment, and common troubleshooting tips.
🧠 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about PowerBeam 5AC
1. What is the PowerBeam 5AC used for?
The PowerBeam 5AC is used for establishing long-range wireless links, especially in point-to-point (PtP) and point-to-multipoint (PtMP) scenarios. It’s ideal for connecting buildings, remote offices, or extending internet access to locations without cabling infrastructure. Its advanced beamforming ensures a stable and fast connection, even across several kilometers.
2. How do I log in to the PowerBeam 5AC interface?
To log in to your PowerBeam 5AC, connect your computer to the device via Ethernet. Open a browser and go to the default IP address (usually 192.168.1.20). Enter the default username and password (ubnt/ubnt unless changed). This gives you access to the PowerBeam 5AC web interface for full configuration.
3. What are the default IP and login credentials for PowerBeam 5AC?
The PowerBeam 5AC typically uses the default IP address 192.168.1.20. The default login credentials are:
Username:ubnt
Password:ubnt It’s strongly recommended to change the default password after initial setup to secure your device.
4. How do I set up a point-to-point link using PowerBeam 5AC?
To set up a PtP link using PowerBeam 5AC, configure one device in Access Point (AP) mode and the other in Station mode. Align the antennas carefully, set matching SSIDs and frequencies, and ensure both units share the same channel width and security settings. After proper alignment and configuration, you can establish a high-speed bridge between two distant locations.
5. What is the difference between PowerBeam 5AC and NanoBeam?
While both are Ubiquiti airMAX devices, the PowerBeam 5AC offers higher gain and better long-distance performance than the NanoBeam. The PowerBeam 5AC uses a larger dish and has improved beam directivity, making it ideal for long-range links over 10+ km, while NanoBeam suits shorter distances.
6. How can I upgrade the firmware on a PowerBeam 5AC device?
To upgrade your PowerBeam 5AC firmware, log in to the web interface, go to System > Firmware, and upload the latest .bin file downloaded from Ubiquiti’s official website. After uploading, click Update. Always ensure the power is stable during the upgrade to avoid bricking the device.
If you’re configuring a PowerBeam 5AC device for remote access or surveillance, it’s crucial that your PC or laptop runs smoothly. A sluggish system can delay configuration tasks and hinder performance monitoring.
And if your setup involves a local wireless router for signal distribution, our TP-Link Archer C64 AC1200 router setup guide covers everything from initial login to advanced Wi-Fi optimization.
7. Why is my PowerBeam 5AC connection unstable or dropping?
Unstable connections on the PowerBeam 5AC may be caused by interference, poor alignment, outdated firmware, or mismatched frequency settings. Ensure both ends have clear line of sight, check for nearby channel interference, update the firmware, and re-align antennas using signal strength indicators.
8. What settings optimize performance for PowerBeam 5AC long-distance links?
To maximize performance on a PowerBeam 5AC link, use:
Narrow channel width (20 MHz or 40 MHz for long distances)
Disable airMAX for non-Ubiquiti clients
Set fixed transmission power
Align antennas with the built-in alignment tool These settings help improve throughput and reduce latency on long-distance links.
9. How to switch between AP and Station mode on PowerBeam 5AC?
In the PowerBeam 5AC interface, navigate to the Wireless tab. Select Access Point (AP) or Station (Client) from the Wireless Mode dropdown menu. Save and apply settings. This function determines whether the device will broadcast a signal or connect to another AP.
10. What is the best alignment method for PowerBeam 5AC antennas?
The best way to align PowerBeam 5AC antennas is to use the built-in alignment tool in the web interface. Mount both devices securely, point them roughly toward each other, then fine-tune alignment by checking the signal strength bars and aiming for the highest dBm level. Slight adjustments can greatly impact performance.
PowerBeam 5AC vs NanoBeam AC Gen2 vs LiteBeam AC Gen2
Feature
PowerBeam 5AC
NanoBeam AC Gen2
LiteBeam AC Gen2
Max Throughput
450+ Mbps
450+ Mbps
450+ Mbps
Range
Up to 25+ km
Up to 15 km
Up to 10 km
Antenna Gain
25 dBi
19 dBi
23 dBi
Beamwidth
7°
45°
10°
Application
Long-distance, narrow beam
Medium-distance
Budget long-distance
Price Range
$$$
$$
$
📊 PowerBeam 5AC vs Rocket M5 + Dish vs TP-Link CPE710
Feature
PowerBeam 5AC
Rocket M5 + Dish Antenna
TP-Link CPE710
Max Throughput
450+ Mbps
~150 Mbps
867 Mbps (5GHz only)
Frequency Band
5 GHz
5 GHz
5 GHz
Modularity
Integrated unit
Requires separate antenna
Integrated unit
Antenna Gain
25 dBi
Up to 30 dBi with dish
23 dBi
Usability
Easy to deploy
Requires manual assembly
Easy to deploy
Management Interface
airOS
airOS
Pharos Control
📊 PowerBeam 5AC vs Mikrotik LHG 5 ac vs Cambium ePMP Force 300
Feature
PowerBeam 5AC
Mikrotik LHG 5 ac
Cambium ePMP Force 300
Max Throughput
450+ Mbps
600 Mbps
600 Mbps
Antenna Gain
25 dBi
24.5 dBi
25 dBi
Beam Directivity
Very high
High
Very high
Management Interface
airOS
RouterOS
ePMP UI
Application
Long-distance PtP links
Long-range rural deployments
Carrier-grade PtP/PtMP
Price Range
$$$
$$
$$$$
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The Ubiquiti PowerBeam 5AC is one of the best choices for long-distance wireless bridging. By carefully following this step-by-step tutorial, you can build a stable, high-performance wireless link that lasts.
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