In modern outdoor networking environments, especially in enterprise, ISP, or surveillance setups, having a reliable and high-gain access point is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re setting up a wireless distribution system or need seamless point-to-multipoint coverage, choosing the right equipment makes all the difference. That’s where the Ubiquiti Networks LAP-120 LiteAP AC comes in.
This Ubiquiti antenna stands out as a compact yet robust 5GHz outdoor access point, designed specifically to deliver stable long-range connectivity, powered by Ubiquiti’s advanced airMAX ac technology. With a built-in 16dBi sector antenna and an affordable design, it serves as an excellent choice for professionals seeking performance and affordability in one unit.
Ubiquiti Networks LAP-120 LiteAP AC – A Powerful 5GHz Outdoor Wireless Solution
The Ubiquiti Networks LAP-120, also referred to by its part number LAP-120-US, is a lightweight, high-performance outdoor wireless access point operating in the 5GHz frequency band. It is part of Ubiquiti’s popular LiteAP series and is engineered for point-to-multipoint (PtMP) applications, delivering powerful and reliable wireless coverage in outdoor environments.
This model combines a sleek form factor with cutting-edge features such as airMAX ac protocol support and a 2×2 MIMO antenna design. Its integrated 120° sector antenna provides a gain of 16 dBi, ensuring directional coverage over large open areas. The LAP-120 supports throughput of up to 450+ Mbps under optimal conditions and comes equipped with a Gigabit Ethernet port, making it ideal for bandwidth-intensive applications like HD video streaming, IP surveillance backhaul, and community wireless networks.
Built to operate in challenging outdoor conditions, the LAP-120 is weather-resistant and comes with an included pole mount kit for flexible installation. Its low power consumption and passive PoE support also make it suitable for remote locations where power resources are limited.
Reliable Outdoor Connectivity with Optimized Performance
The LAP-120 offers the power and range required for wide-area wireless coverage. Ubiquiti’s proprietary airMAX ac technology uses TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access) to eliminate hidden node collisions and maximize throughput. Unlike standard WiFi which can struggle in noisy environments, the LAP-120 ensures clear communication even in congested RF zones.
Its 120-degree beamwidth is ideal for covering large outdoor areas such as parking lots, campuses, construction sites, or rural networks. In ISP-grade deployments, it serves as a base station for distributing internet to multiple client devices, while maintaining consistent performance thanks to low latency and high spectral efficiency.
With real-world speeds that can exceed 450 Mbps in optimal conditions, and low-latency performance enabled by airMAX scheduler, the LAP-120 is a clear upgrade over traditional access points in similar price ranges.
Use Cases for Ubiquiti Networks LAP-120
The Ubiquiti LAP-120 is particularly well-suited for:
- Internet Service Providers (ISPs) looking to extend coverage to rural areas using a PtMP architecture.
- Construction companies needing reliable temporary site connectivity.
- Educational institutions or universities with large open campuses.
- Municipal WiFi projects requiring strong signal propagation in parks or city centers.
- Warehouse and logistics facilities needing stable outdoor wireless bridges.
- Surveillance networks needing robust video feed backhaul across expansive areas.
Thanks to its integrated high-gain antenna and long-range signal propagation, the LAP-120 performs exceptionally well in line-of-sight applications over several kilometers.
Ethernet Port and Power Input
The Ubiquiti LAP-120 comes with a single 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet port, which supports data transfer and passive PoE (24V, 0.3A). This means you can power the device and send data over the same cable using the included PoE adapter, simplifying installation and eliminating the need for multiple wires.
Whether you’re installing this on a tall pole or rooftop, the single-cable setup makes it cleaner and more manageable. The port also enables integration into high-speed backhaul networks or to connect directly to other wireless hardware in a mesh configuration.
How to Easily Mount and Align the LAP-120
Ubiquiti designed the LAP-120 with installation simplicity in mind. It includes a universal pole mount and features an intuitive ball joint mount for quick vertical and horizontal alignment. The included alignment tool ensures precise antenna direction, which is critical for maximizing throughput and minimizing signal loss in PtMP setups.
This flexibility makes it a favorite among technicians who deploy multiple access points in one day.
What Sets the LAP-120 Apart?
While many 5GHz outdoor access points exist on the market, the LAP-120 is unique due to its:
- Integrated 16 dBi 120° sector antenna – eliminating the need for an external antenna.
- Low weight and sleek profile – making it ideal for installations with minimal space.
- Use of airMAX ac protocol – ensuring lower latency and better client coordination.
- Included mounting gear and alignment tool – reducing setup complexity and time.
- Attractive pricing – offering enterprise-grade features at a fraction of the cost.
Comparison with Similar Ubiquiti Models
Feature | LAP-120 (LiteAP AC) | LBE-5AC-Gen2 | NanoStation 5AC |
---|---|---|---|
Frequency Band | 5GHz | 5GHz | 5GHz |
Antenna Gain | 16 dBi | 23 dBi | 16 dBi |
Antenna Type | 120° Sector | Directional | Directional |
Throughput (Max) | 450+ Mbps | 450+ Mbps | 450+ Mbps |
Ethernet Port | 1 x Gigabit | 1 x Gigabit | 1 x Gigabit |
PoE Support | 24V Passive | 24V Passive | 24V Passive |
Mount Type | Pole Mount | Pole Mount | Wall/Pole |
Ideal For | PtMP Base Station | CPE | Short-range PtP |
The LAP-120 is best used as a base station in PtMP deployments, while the LBE-5AC-Gen2 and NanoStation 5AC serve better as client or point-to-point units due to their narrower beamwidth.
Technical Specifications – Ubiquiti Networks LAP-120
Specification | Detail |
---|---|
Model | LAP-120-US |
Frequency Range | 5.150 – 5.875 GHz |
Antenna Gain | 16 dBi |
Antenna Beamwidth | 120° |
MIMO Support | 2×2 MIMO |
Maximum Throughput | 450+ Mbps |
Ethernet Ports | 1 x 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet Port |
PoE Input | 24V Passive PoE, 0.3A |
Power Consumption | 7 Watts (Max) |
Mounting Options | Pole Mount with Alignment Tool |
Operating Temperature | -40 to 70° C |
Dimensions | 452.3 x 79 x 54 mm |
Weight | 420 g |
Enclosure | UV-stabilized Plastic |
Included Accessories | PoE Adapter, Mount Kit, Quick Start Guide |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the range of the Ubiquiti LAP-120?
It can cover several kilometers in line-of-sight environments, depending on local interference and elevation. - Does the LAP-120 support PoE?
Yes, it supports 24V passive PoE and comes with a compatible PoE injector. - Can I use it as a CPE?
While technically possible, the LAP-120 is optimized for base station use in PtMP setups. - Does it support 2.4GHz?
No, the LAP-120 is a 5GHz-only device. - How many clients can it serve simultaneously?
Typically, it performs well with up to 50+ simultaneous client connections, depending on traffic load. - Is it weatherproof?
Yes, it’s designed for outdoor environments with a durable, UV-resistant enclosure. - Can I manage the LAP-120 via UISP (formerly UNMS)?
Yes, it is fully compatible with Ubiquiti’s UISP platform for centralized management. - Is an external antenna required?
No, it includes a built-in 120° 16dBi sector antenna. - Does it support mesh networking?
It’s not optimized for mesh but can be part of a bridge or PtMP topology. - Can I wall-mount the device?
It’s primarily designed for pole mounting but can be adapted for wall installations using custom brackets.
Final Thoughts – Is the Ubiquiti Networks LAP-120 Right for You?
If you’re looking for a cost-effective, high-gain, and reliable outdoor access point for your next wireless deployment, the Ubiquiti Networks LAP-120 is a top contender. Its combination of wide beamwidth, strong throughput, airMAX ac performance, and easy installation makes it a go-to solution for service providers and integrators.
And best of all, at ITMan, we proudly offer the LAP-120 at a competitive price with local support and fast delivery in the UAE. Whether you’re upgrading an old network or setting up a new wireless distribution system, the LAP-120 is a solid investment in quality and reliability.
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