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Originally Posted On: https://www.highspeedoptions.com/resources/insights/wifi-frequency-bands

Are you having issues with your WiFi? Try switching up the way you access your home network on different devices.

For example, most routers today have dual-band technology that allows users to switch between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, which usually increases internet speed. We explain the main differences between the two bands to help you know what scenarios each works best for.

• Differences Between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
• Choosing Between Bands

If you have a wireless router (802.11n or newer), chances are it supports two separate radio frequency bands: 2.4 GHz and 5. GHz. The main distinctions between these two bands comes down to wireless range and network speed.

Each band has strengths and weaknesses, which we explain in detail below.

WiFi networks use radio signals in different frequency lengths (i.e 2.4 GHz) to transmit data between routers and smart devices.

Depending on your internet service provider’s network, there are different standards, or “generations,” of WiFi technology that support faster speeds. In order of release, existing standards include:

• 802.11b (WiFi 1)
• 802.11a (WiFi 2)
• 802.11g (WiFi 3)
• 802.11n (WiFi 4)
• 802.11ac (WiFi 5)
• 802.11ax (WiFi 6)

Many assume a 5 GHz network performs better because it’s a “newer technology.” But this is a myth. Both 5GHz and 2.4 GHz networks were certified in 1999. However, it wasn’t until 2013 that WiFi became popular thanks to the release of WiFi 5 (i.e. 802.11ac). This network standard uses dual-band wireless technology to support simultaneous connections on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.

The first key differentiator of the two bands is network speed. A 5 GHz network can carry almost twice as much data per unit of time than a 2.4 GHz network, which makes it faster.

To put it another way, the wavelengths of a 5 GHz frequency band is half the length of a 2.4 GHz frequency band, allowing it to carry more data over shorter distances.

For this reason, devices that require more bandwidth, like gaming consoles and streaming plugins, typically run faster on 5 GHz networks. Conversely, home devices like smart appliances and phones that don’t require as much bandwidth, work just fine on 2.4 GHz networks.

The second key differentiator of the two is network range. A 5 GHz network generally supports faster speeds, but by design, it cannot reach as far as a 2.4 GHz signal. The higher the frequency of the wireless signal, the shorter its range. Therefore, a 2.4 GHz network usually covers a larger surface area than 5 GHz does.

In addition, 5 GHz wavelengths are more prone to collide with other objects (i.e. furniture, walls, etc.), which interferes with its signal. In contrast, 2.4 GHz wavelengths travel farther distances and can penetrate solid objects.

For this reason, a 5 GHz network is better suited for stationary devices like TVs and gaming consoles that don’t require much range, while a 2.4 GHz network works best with phones, alarm systems, and smaller devices that don’t require much bandwidth.

In general, what one band excels at the other one lacks, and vice versa. So, the question isn’t, “Which one is better?” The question is, “When should I use them?” We outline a few things to consider when choosing between wireless bands.

As we discussed above, the higher the frequency of a network, the shorter its range. So, larger households (usually 1,500 sq. ft. or bigger) tend to benefit from a 2.4 GHz band since they require a greater coverage area. On the other hand, if you live in a smaller home or apartment, 5GHz will deliver faster speeds and eliminate dead spots with ease in most instances.

Ideally, you want to use the 2.4 GHz band for devices that require low bandwidth, like smartphones, home security systems, and garage openers. On the other hand, if you stream videos on an Amazon Firestick or have a gaming console, 5 GHz supports high-bandwidth devices best.

Similarly, you’ll want to consider what you’re using your devices for. Certain online activities generate and consume more bandwidth than others, regardless of whether you’re on a desktop computer or your smartphone. For example, if you use your phone to check emails, connected to a 2.4 GHz network will suffice. However, using your phone to stream YouTube videos will require more bandwidth, which a 5 GHz network is best for.

All in all, choosing which band to use really depends on the situation. 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks each have their own advantages, and it’s important to take into account multiple factors like your home size, devices, and online activity when determining the right solution for you.

The best part about having a dual-band router is that you can also divvy up bandwidth, connecting different devices to both bands simultaneously. This helps reduce possible network congestion overall.

That said, if you still experience problems with your WiFi connection, you may want to also consider boosting your signal with WiFi extenders or upgrading your internet plan to include higher speeds.