2.4 GHz and 5 GHz are simply different frequencies, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. The primary differences between the 2.4 GHz and 5GHz wireless frequencies are range and bandwidth. 5GHz provides faster data rates at a shorter distance, whereas 2.4GHz offers coverage for farther distances, but may perform at slower speeds. This article describes the differences between 2.4 GHz and 5GHz frequencies, and offers suggestions for choosing the frequency that is best for your situation.

Range (how far your data can travel):
In most cases, the higher the frequency of a wireless signal, the shorter its range, or how far your data can travel, will be. The biggest reason for this is that higher frequency signals cannot penetrate solid objects like walls and floors as well as lower frequency signals. Thus, the 2.4 GHz has a farther range than the 5 GHz frequency.

Bandwidth (speed):
Higher frequencies allow faster transmission of data, also known as bandwidth. Higher bandwidth means that files will download and upload faster, and high-bandwidth applications such as streaming video will perform much smoother and faster. Therefore, the 5GHz with its higher bandwidth will provide much faster data connections than 2.4 GHz.

Interference:
Many devices only use the 2.4 GHz frequency, and these devices are all attempting to use the same “radio space” which can cause overcrowding of the channels. The 5GHz band has 23 available channels for devices to use vs. the 3 available on the 2.4 GHz band.

Overcrowding and interference can cause slower speeds and intermittent connectivity issues. Some examples of devices that can cause interference:

•     Microwaves
•     Cordless phones
•     Baby monitors
•     Garage door openers

So, which should you choose, 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz?

•     If faster speeds are most important to you, 5GHz is usually a better choice than 2.4 GHz.
•     If wireless range is more important to you, 2.4 GHz is usually a better choice than 5 GHz.
•     If you have a lot of devices that use 2.4 GHz and you are experiencing interference or intermittent connectivity issues, then 5 GHz is probably a better option.

Document Type:

Published 07/11/2015 07:21 PM   |   Updated 08/18/2015 02:05 PM