What is the difference between 2.4
GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi?
The
primary differences between the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless frequencies are
range and bandwidth.
2.4 GHz
offers coverage for farther distances but doesn’t offer as high of speeds as
the 5 GHz.
5 GHz
provides faster speeds at a shorter distance.
Range: How far your data can travel. In most cases the higher
the frequency of a wireless signal the shorter its range.
Bandwidth/Speed: Higher bandwidth means that files will upload and
download faster, and high bandwidth applications like streaming video will
perform much smoother and faster.
How to
choose which frequency to use
If you are
trying to connect devices upstairs, downstairs, or on the opposite side of the
house from your router, then you would use the 2.4 GHz frequency.
If you are
streaming video or wanting faster speeds, then you would go with the 5 GHz
frequency.
Things to
note
The 2.4 GHz
frequency is used by many devices and these devices are all attempting to use
the same radio space which can cause overcrowding of the channels. The 2.4 GHz frequency only has 11 channels to
use versus the 23 channels that the 5 GHz frequency can use.
Overcrowding
and interference can cause slower speeds and intermittent connectivity issues.
Some examples of devices that can cause interference are:
· - Microwaves
- Cordless Phones
- Baby Monitors
- Garage door openers
Not all
devices can connect to the 5 GHz frequency. Due to it being a high frequency, the 5 GHz
signal has significantly less range due to it not being able to go through
walls and floors.
Wi-Fi is
always evolving and growing. We hope this information helps you understand your
Wi-Fi a little better. If you ever have
questions about your wireless, don’t hesitate to ask your Mid Century technician.
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