If you've migrated from a self-hosted UniFi Network Server to UOS Server, you may discover that Teleport VPN is unavailable after the migration.

Why It Happens

This happens because Teleport is only enabled for the site flagged internally as the default site. During migration, the newly created default site remains the active default while your imported site does not inherit that status.

Before You Begin

This guide explains how to manually update the MongoDB database so your imported site becomes the default. Make a backup before proceeding, as this involves directly modifying the database.

Warning

• Editing the UniFi MongoDB database can permanently damage your configuration if done incorrectly.
• Back up your UOS Server before making changes.
• This procedure is unsupported by Ubiquiti.
• Verify your Object IDs carefully before running any update commands.

Prerequisites

• Self-hosted UOS Server
• SSH access
• Root or sudo privileges
• Basic Linux command-line knowledge
• Existing imported UniFi site
• MongoDB CLI available

Step 1 – SSH Into The Server

ssh user@your-server

Step 2 – Open the UOS Shell

uosserver shell

Step 3 – Connect to MongoDB

mongo --port 27117

Step 4 – Switch the Unifi DB

use ace

Step 5 – List The Existing Site

db.site.find()

Step 5a – You should see at least 2 sites. There will be other columns, but these are the ones we care about.

{ "_id" : ObjectId("[hex number 1]"), "name" : "default", "attr_no_delete" : true, "attr_hidden_id" : "default", "desc" : "Default" }
{ "_id" : ObjectId("[hex number 2]"), "desc" : "[imported site description]", "name" : "[imported site name]" }

Step 6 – Use these commands to swap the site details

Step 6a – Convert the imported site into the default site

db.site.update({ _id: ObjectId("[hex number 2]") }, { $set: { desc: "default", attr_hidden_id: "default", attr_no_delete: true, name: "default" }})

Step 6b – Remove the default-only attributes from the original site

db.site.update({ _id: ObjectId("[hex number 1]") }, { $unset: { attr_hidden_id: "",attr_no_delete: ""}})

Step 6c – Rename the old default site so it no longer conflicts

db.site.update({ _id: ObjectId("[hex number 1]") }, { $set: { name: "old_default", desc: "old_default"}})

Verify The Changes

Step 7 – List the updated sites in the database

db.site.find()

Step 7a –  You should see at least 2 sites. Their attributes should now be swapped.

{ "_id" : ObjectId("[hex number 2]"), "name" : "default", "attr_no_delete" : true, "attr_hidden_id" : "default", "desc" : "Default" }
{ "_id" : ObjectId("[hex number 1]"), "desc" : old_default, "name" : old_default }

Confirm that:

• The imported site is now named "default"
• attr_hidden_id is set to "default"
• attr_no_delete is present

Once we have confirmed the data looks correct, we can back out and restart UOS.

exit

exit

uosserver stop

uosserver start

Step 7b – Once restarted, we should see the following in the UI.

• Teleport appears under Settings → VPN after restarting UOS

• With UID configured, One-Click options appear under Settings -> Identity

• With my UTR, you should now see a valid Teleport endpoint to connect to.

Troubleshooting:

Teleport still doesn't appear

• Clear browser cache
• Wait several minutes after restarting
• Verify the MongoDB changes
• Confirm the imported site is now named "default"

MongoDB connection failed

Possible causes:

• Wrong port
• UOS shell not active
• MongoDB service not running

Tested with:

• UOS Server version: 5.1.19
• UniFi Network version: 10.4.57
• Last verified: July 2026

Conclusion

By manually promoting your imported site within MongoDB, you effectively bridge the gap between legacy self-hosted configurations and the modern UOS architecture. While it is frustrating that the UI doesn’t currently offer a native "Set as Default" toggle, this database swap ensures you can finally leverage the full power of Teleport VPN and UniFi Identity on your own hardware.

Moving forward, remember that because this is a core database modification, you should double-check your site settings after any major UOS firmware updates to ensure the "default" flag persists. With Teleport now active, your self-hosted environment is officially on par with Ubiquiti’s premium hardware consoles, providing seamless, encrypted remote access for your UniFi Travel Router and mobile devices.

If you encountered any issues during the MongoDB swap or with anything else specific to your version, please leave a comment below to help others in the community. Safe hosting!

Maintaining a pristine and weed-free garden is a never-ending battle for garden enthusiasts. To combat unwanted invaders, gardeners often turn to various weed control methods, including cardboard and synthetic weed barriers. Both options offer distinct advantages and disadvantages. This article will delve into the pros and cons of using cardboard and synthetic weed barriers in non-edible flower gardens, helping you make an informed decision for a flourishing and hassle-free garden.

Section 1: Cardboard for Weed Control

Cardboard has emerged as an unconventional yet cost-effective weed control method, often recommended by organic gardeners. Let's explore its benefits and limitations.

1.1 Pros of Using Cardboard:

a) Organic and Environmentally Friendly: Cardboard is a biodegradable and renewable material, making it an eco-friendly choice. It can be recycled and breaks down naturally over time, reducing environmental impact.

b) Suppresses Weeds Effectively: Thick layers of cardboard act as an efficient barrier, preventing sunlight from reaching the underlying soil. This obstructs weed growth and minimizes the need for chemical herbicides.

c) Retains Moisture and Enhances Soil Health: Cardboard retains moisture, creating a microclimate that encourages beneficial microbial activity. As it decomposes, it contributes to soil fertility by adding organic matter.

d) Cost-Effective Solution: Cardboard is widely available and often free. By repurposing cardboard boxes or sourcing them from local businesses, gardeners can save money on weed control expenses.

1.2 Cons of Using Cardboard:

a) Temporary Solution: Cardboard's biodegradability is a double-edged sword. While it eventually breaks down, it also means that its weed-suppressing properties diminish over time. Frequent replacement or additional layers may be necessary to maintain effectiveness.

b) Aesthetically Challenging: A layer of cardboard can detract from the visual appeal of a flower garden. Its brown, dull appearance may not blend well with the overall garden design, especially when exposed.

c) Potential for Invasive Species: Despite its weed-suppressing capabilities, cardboard can inadvertently harbor seeds of unwanted plants or invasive species, leading to unexpected weed growth.

Section 2: Synthetic Weed Barriers for Weed Control

Synthetic weed barriers are widely used in gardening, offering their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Let's examine them in detail.

2.1 Pros of Using Synthetic Weed Barriers:

a) Long-Lasting Durability: Unlike cardboard, synthetic weed barriers are designed to resist degradation, providing an extended lifespan. They offer a semi-permanent solution, reducing the need for frequent replacement.

b) Effective Weed Suppression: Synthetic barriers are engineered to block sunlight, hindering weed growth. They offer a reliable defense against persistent and aggressive weeds.

c) Improved Aesthetics: Synthetic barriers come in various colors and designs, allowing gardeners to choose an option that blends seamlessly with their flower garden. These visually appealing options enhance the overall garden aesthetics.

d) Reduced Maintenance: Synthetic weed barriers require minimal maintenance once installed. They significantly decrease the time and effort spent on weeding, allowing gardeners to focus on other aspects of garden care.

2.2 Cons of Using Synthetic Weed Barriers:

a) Limited Breathability: Synthetic barriers hinder the exchange of air and water between the soil and the atmosphere. This can lead to moisture buildup, inhibiting the natural soil ecosystem and potentially causing root rot or fungal diseases.

b) Non-Biodegradable and Environmental Concerns: Synthetic weed barriers are typically made from petroleum-based materials that do not decompose. Disposal after use can contribute to landfill waste, raising environmental concerns.

c) Expensive Initial Investment: Compared to cardboard, synthetic weed barriers tend to have a higher upfront cost. The initial investment may deter gardeners on a limited budget.

d) Difficult Soil Amendment: Synthetic barriers cannot be easily amended or fertilized once installed. This limits the ability to improve soil quality and restricts the use of organic soil additives or compost.

Conclusion:

Choosing between cardboard and synthetic weed barriers for weed control in a non-edible flower garden requires careful consideration of the pros and cons of each option. Cardboard offers an organic and cost-effective solution, although it requires periodic replacement and may be aesthetically unappealing. On the other hand, synthetic weed barriers provide long-lasting effectiveness and visual appeal but come with environmental concerns and limited soil amendment capabilities.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific gardening needs, environmental values, and budgetary considerations. Regardless of the option chosen, proper installation and monitoring are crucial for successful weed control. With an informed decision and diligent maintenance, your non-edible flower garden will flourish, showcasing its natural beauty while remaining free from the clutches of unsightly weeds.