The primary differences between wireless frequencies are the range (coverage) and bandwidth (speed) that the bands provide.
- The 2.4 GHz band provides the most coverage but transmits data at slower speeds.
- The 5 GHz band provides less coverage but transmits data at faster speeds.
- The 6 GHz band, exclusive to the newest WiFi standards, provides the least coverage but transmits data at the fastest speeds of the three frequencies.
Wireless range decreases with higher frequencies 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 higher frequencies like 5 GHz and 6 GHz allow you to upload and download files faster than 2.4 GHz.
Your WiFi connection on a particular frequency band can also be affected by interference from other devices. Many WiFi-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 2.4 GHz band because fewer devices use it and because it has 23 channels for devices to use, while the 2.4 GHz band has only 11 channels. The number of channels that are available to you depends on the wireless regulations in your region. If you’re experiencing a lot of interference from other devices, consider using the 5 GHz band.
The 6 GHz wireless band was introduced with the WiFi 6E standard and is exclusive to devices that support WiFi 6E and newer standards, including WiFi 7 and successive future WiFi versions. This means that on 6 GHz, the WiFi network doesn’t need to slow down to accommodate legacy devices. The 6 GHz band also supports almost twice as many channels as 5 GHz. Fewer devices, more spectrum, and more bandwidth means less interference and network congestion.
Because the 6 GHz wireless band was previously unlicensed, regulators in some regions are still considering its use. 6 GHz WiFi functionality is not available in regions where regulators have not approved the 6 GHz band. For more information, see Is 6 GHz WiFi available in my region?
For more information:
- Why can't my device detect the 6 GHz wireless band?
- Can I choose if my Orbi router broadcasts separate WiFi networks for 2.4GHz and 5GHz?
- How do I change the wireless channel on my NETGEAR router?
- How do I turn my NETGEAR router’s wireless radios on and off using the router web interface?
Last Updated:07/13/2023 | Article ID: 29396
