Complete Guide: Ubiquiti NanoStation M5 Setup as Access Point, Repeater & P2P (2025)

Introduction

The Ubiquiti NanoStation M5 is a powerhouse for long-range wireless networking. Whether you’re setting up Wi-Fi over a farm, a construction site, or between buildings, the NanoStation delivers strong, stable connections.
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to configure your NanoStation M5 — or even M2 — as an Access Point, Repeater, and in Point-to-Point (P2P) mode. We’ll also explain common troubleshooting steps, give you default login details, and provide access to manuals and configuration PDFs.

✅ Good news: You can even configure it from your Android phone!

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How to Configure NanoStation M5 as Access Point (Using Android)

You don’t need a PC to set up your NanoStation — just your smartphone.

Step-by-step:

1. Power Up
   • Connect the NanoStation to power using the POE injector.
2. Connect Your Android Device
   • Search Wi-Fi networks for the NanoStation SSID (open, no password by default).
   • Alternatively, use a USB-to-Ethernet adapter to connect with a cable.
3. Login via Browser
   • Open your browser and type http://192.168.1.20.
   • Username: ubnt | Password: ubnt
4. Change Wireless Mode
   • Go to Wireless → Set Wireless Mode = Access Point.
5. Set Wi-Fi Name and Password
   • Name your network (SSID).
   • Add strong WPA2 security under Wireless Security tab.
6. Set Network Mode
   • Under Network tab, set Network Mode = Bridge.
7. Save and Apply

Your NanoStation M5 is now broadcasting Wi-Fi just like a traditional router!

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How to Set Up NanoStation M5 as a Wi-Fi Repeater

Want to extend Wi-Fi coverage? Here’s how:

Steps:

1. Login as before (192.168.1.20).
2. Go to Wireless settings.
3. Set Wireless Mode to Station WDS.
4. Click Select or Scan to find the Wi-Fi network you want to repeat.
5. Connect and enter the Wi-Fi password.
6. Set Network Mode = Bridge.
7. Save and Apply.

✅ Now your NanoStation M5 repeats an existing Wi-Fi network, extending coverage over large areas.

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Point-to-Point (P2P) Setup: NanoStation M5 Bridge Connection

If you need to connect two distant buildings wirelessly, NanoStation M5s are perfect.

You’ll need two devices:

• Device A: Set up as Access Point WDS.
• Device B: Set up as Station WDS.

Configure Device A:

• Wireless Mode → Access Point WDS
• Create your Wi-Fi name (SSID).
• Add a strong WPA2 password.
• Network Mode → Bridge.

Configure Device B:

• Wireless Mode → Station WDS
• Scan and connect to Device A.
• Use the same WPA2 password.
• Network Mode → Bridge.

✅ Done!
You now have a high-speed, long-distance wireless bridge (up to several kilometers apart if you have clear line of sight).

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NanoStation M5 Default Settings

Setting	Default Value
IP Address	192.168.1.20
Username	ubnt
Password	ubnt

Tip: Always change your default login credentials after setup for security reasons.

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Troubleshooting Common Problems

• Can’t Access 192.168.1.20?
  → Set your Android or PC IP manually to 192.168.1.x (example: 192.168.1.100).
• Forgot Password?
  → Hold the reset button for 15 seconds while powered on to reset to factory settings.
• Weak Signal?
  → Make sure devices have clear line-of-sight, and try adjusting antennas slightly for best performance.

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Download NanoStation M5 Manual & Setup PDF

You can find the official manual here:
👉 NanoStation M5 User Guide PDF

If you want, I can also send a simplified Quick Setup PDF for offline use. (Just ask!)

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NanoStation M2 Setup as Access Point

Good news!
The NanoStation M2 setup is identical to the M5 guide above — the only difference is:

• M2 operates on 2.4GHz (better range, more interference).
• M5 operates on 5GHz (faster speed, less interference).

Use the same step-by-step instructions above!

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Final Thoughts

The Ubiquiti NanoStation M5 is an incredible tool for farms, warehouses, schools, and even outdoor events. With just a little bit of setup — and maybe an Android phone — you can turn it into an Access Point, Repeater, or P2P bridge and cover large areas with reliable internet.

Always secure your device with a strong password, monitor your signal levels, and don’t forget to back up your configurations once everything is set.