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2.4GHz and 5GHz are simply different frequencies that Wi-Fi can transmit on. Each frequency 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 over a shorter distance, whereas 2.4GHz offers coverage over greater 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:
In most cases, the higher the frequency of a wireless signal, the shorter its range will be. The main reason for this is higher frequency signals cannot penetrate solid objects such as walls and floors as well as lower frequency signals. Therefore, the 2.4 GHz has a greater range than the 5 GHz frequency. - Bandwidth:
Higher frequencies allow the 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.
