Should I use 5 GHz or 2.4 GHz WiFi?
Should I use 5 GHz or 2.4 GHz WiFi?
What are the main differences?
The primary differences between the two frequencies are the range (coverage) and bandwidth (speed) that the bands provide.
The 2.4 GHz band provides coverage at a longer distances but transmits data at slower speeds. The 5 GHz band provides shorter distances but transmits data at faster speeds.
Why is 5 GHz shorter range, but faster?
The range is lower in the 5 GHz band because higher frequencies cannot penetrate solid objects, such as walls and floors.
However, higher frequencies allow data to be transmitted faster than lower frequencies, so the 5 GHz band allows you to upload and download files faster.
What else affects Wi-Fi speeds?
Your Wi-Fi connection on a particular frequency band can also be faster or slower because of interference from other devices, and from physical surroundings (metal, concrete, thick walls, etc.)
Many Wi-Fi enabled technologies and other household devices use the 2.4 GHz band, including microwaves and garage door openers. When multiple devices attempt to use the same radio space, overcrowding occurs.
The 5 GHz band tends to have less overcrowding than the 2.4GHz band because fewer devices use it
Additionally, the 5 GHz band has 23 channels for devices to use, while the 2.4GHz band has only 11 channels. If you’re experiencing a lot of interference from other devices, consider switching your channel, or using the 5 GHz band.
What are the main differences?
The primary differences between the two frequencies are the range (coverage) and bandwidth (speed) that the bands provide.
The 2.4 GHz band provides coverage at a longer distances but transmits data at slower speeds. The 5 GHz band provides shorter distances but transmits data at faster speeds.
Why is 5 GHz shorter range, but faster?
The range is lower in the 5 GHz band because higher frequencies cannot penetrate solid objects, such as walls and floors.
However, higher frequencies allow data to be transmitted faster than lower frequencies, so the 5 GHz band allows you to upload and download files faster.
What else affects Wi-Fi speeds?
Your Wi-Fi connection on a particular frequency band can also be faster or slower because of interference from other devices, and from physical surroundings (metal, concrete, thick walls, etc.)
Many Wi-Fi enabled technologies and other household devices use the 2.4 GHz band, including microwaves and garage door openers. When multiple devices attempt to use the same radio space, overcrowding occurs.
The 5 GHz band tends to have less overcrowding than the 2.4GHz band because fewer devices use it
Additionally, the 5 GHz band has 23 channels for devices to use, while the 2.4GHz band has only 11 channels. If you’re experiencing a lot of interference from other devices, consider switching your channel, or using the 5 GHz band.
Updated on: 01/02/2024
Thank you!