2.4GHz vs 5GHz WiFi: which one should you use
2.4GHz reaches farther but is slower and more crowded. 5GHz is faster but doesn't go through walls as well. Use 5GHz for phones and laptops close to your router, and 2.4GHz for smart home devices and devices far away.
Most modern routers broadcast on two frequency bands at the same time. The 2.4GHz band uses longer radio waves that pass through walls more easily, so it reaches farther. But it's shared with microwaves, baby monitors, and your neighbours' WiFi, so it gets crowded. The 5GHz band doesn't go through walls as well, but it's much faster and has less interference because fewer devices use it.
No step-by-step guide available for this issue yet — book a technician directly.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Connecting a smart plug or light to the 5GHz network — these devices don't support it and will fail to connect
- Assuming 5GHz is always better — it's not when your device is far away or in another room
Signs you need professional help
- Your router only broadcasts one band and smart devices won't connect
- WiFi speed is much slower than expected even when close to your router on 5GHz
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