Many people own them, but don’t understand what a Dual band Router is, and why it is useful. Read on to learn how to utilize the features it offers.
What exactly is a Dual Band Router?
A dual band router is a Wi-Fi router that operates on two separate frequency bands; 2.4 Ghz and 5 Ghz.
This means the router projects two network signals. Each of them can be used simultaneously and each come with a different set of advantages and disadvantages.
If you have rented or purchased equipment directly form your isp, such as Xfinity or Verizon, you will likely be given a dual band router/modem combo called a Gateway.
We will not be going over how to access your routers backend settings, but using the dual band function may need to be activated there.
Check out one of these guides from Xfinity and Verizon for more information on that.
The Difference, Advantages and Disadvantages.
There are some pretty significant characteristics of each band that should go into deciding what device should go on which.
The 2.4 GHz band has a slower speed than the 5 GHz.
The shorter wavelength of the 5 GHz band allows for more bandwidth to be transmitted in a shorter time than the 2.4 GHz.
This comes with its disadvantages though. Shorter wavelengths do no travel as far, or penetrate through walls as well as the longer 2.4 GHz wavelengths.
This means that if the router is located far away from the device accessing it the, 5 GHz may not give a good stable connection. This is a scenario where using 2.4 GHz could be advantageous for consistency and stability. The 2.4 GHz network is also less prone to outside interference.
Conversely, if the device is near the router, the 5 GHz can offer substantially faster internet speeds and is recommended for use with any device using a lot of bandwidth.
This faster speed is ideal for things such as:
- Downloading any files
- Gaming
- High definition streaming
- Video conferencing
- General speed and stability
Since the two bands can be used simultaneously, it’s a good idea to choose what devices will predominantly use which band. Do this based on the purpose of the device being used, and the distance the device is from the router.
Also, a lot of “smart” devices are not compatible with the 5 GHz frequency. Some require you to put them on the 2.4 GHz band. It’s good to check the devices description to see if this is the case.
Wi-Fi Interference
There are also outside factors that can affect Wi-fi connectivity.
Common examples are metal walls or metal inside walls, mirrors, microwaves, and even cordless phones. Overlapping networks in highly dense areas can also interfere with a steady connection.
One more interesting example is Airplanes.
Depending on the device broadcasting the network, a plane with high tech instrumentation can effect and interfere with a wireless signal when flying over if close enough to the device. This can also affect something like a Wi-Fi range extender. This example is not very common though. It mostly affects those who live very close to an airport on a direct flight path!
Trying each band and seeing which is most consistent could reduce these interferences if they are consistently happening.
Testing your devices
Figuring out which network suits which device best can be a trial and error process.
For example, if a smart TV is far from the router and having buffering issues on the 5 GHz band, try the 2.4 GHz and see if its more stable.
For the most part you will not necessarily get fasters speeds using the 2.4 GHz band, but speed does not always equal stability.
If you are curious what your internet speed is in different parts of your house, use the website Speedtest.net to see what speeds you are getting.
When your router is having trouble providing good consistent speeds and connectivity in certain parts of your house, a Wi-Fi range extender or mesh network may be a worthy investment.
Check out our post about Understanding Internet Speed if you want to learn more about that.
If you have questions about a Dual Band Router and why it is useful, or our other services, please call or email. We’re happy to assist you! Feel free to use our contact form to send us a message. Thank you!