Wi-Fi comes in two main types: 5GHz and 2.4GHz. Sometimes, you might need to switch between these two types to get the best internet connection. This guide will help you understand how to switch from 5GHz to 2.4GHz on different devices, and also when to use each one.
What’s the Difference Between 5GHz and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi?
The difference between 5GHz and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi lies in their speed and range. While both are advanced technologies that provide wireless internet, each has unique strengths that make them better suited for different situations.
- 5GHz Wi-Fi: This type of Wi-Fi is faster but doesn’t reach as far. It’s great for streaming videos, gaming, or using the internet when you’re close to the router.
- 2.4GHz Wi-Fi: This one is slower but covers a bigger area. It can pass through walls better, making it useful if you need internet in different rooms far from the router.
When to Use 5GHz vs. 2.4GHz
- Use 5GHz when you need fast internet speeds and you’re near the router. It’s perfect for video calls, online games, and streaming.
- Use 2.4GHz when you’re farther from the router and need the Wi-Fi signal to reach different rooms. It’s also better if you have a lot of smart home devices that need a strong connection.
How to Switch from 5GHz to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi on Different Devices
1. How to Switch from 5GHz to 2.4GHz on a Router
Time needed: 3 minutes
These easy steps will help you quickly change your router’s Wi-Fi band from 5GHz to 2.4GHz, ensuring better coverage and connectivity throughout your home.
- Open your web browser and type in your router’s IP address (like
192.168.1.1). - Log in with your username and password.
- Go to the Wireless Settings section.
- Find the option to switch between 5GHz and 2.4GHz. Choose 2.4GHz or 5Ghz.
- Save the changes and restart your router.
2. How to Switch from 2.4GHz to 5GHz in Windows 10 and 11
- Step 1: Open Device Manager by pressing
Win + X. - Step 2: Find your network adapter, right-click on it, and select Properties.
- Step 3: Go to the Advanced tab, look for Preferred Band, and choose 5GHz.
- Step 4: Click OK and reconnect to your Wi-Fi.
3. How to Switch from 2.4GHz to 5GHz on a Mac
- Step 1: Open AirPort Utility on your Mac.
- Step 2: Select your base station and click Edit.
- Step 3: Go to Wireless Options and select 5GHz from the Wi-Fi Channel option.
- Step 4: Save the changes.
4. How to Switch from 2.4GHz to 5GHz on Mobile (Android)
- Step 1: Open your Wi-Fi settings.
- Step 2: If your router shows two networks (like
HomeWiFi-2.4GandHomeWiFi-5G), select the one you want to connect to. - Step 3: For some Android devices, you may find an option to switch between bands in the Advanced settings.
5. How to Switch from 5GHz to 2.4GHz on iPhone
- Step 1: Go to Settings and tap Wi-Fi.
- Step 2: If your router shows both 5GHz and 2.4GHz networks, choose 2.4GHz.
- Step 3: If you don’t see the option, you might need to change the settings on your router directly.
How to Switch from 5GHz and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Easily
Sometimes, your router might show both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks separately. In this case, switching is as easy as choosing the network you want from your device’s Wi-Fi settings. If your router combines the two networks into one, you may need to adjust settings in the router’s admin panel.
How to Switch Router from 5GHz to 2.4GHz
To switch your entire router from 5GHz to 2.4GHz, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Log into your router’s admin panel using a web browser.
- Step 2: Find the Wi-Fi settings or Wireless settings section.
- Step 3: Look for the option to change the frequency band and select 2.4GHz.
- Step 4: Save your settings and reboot the router.
How to Manage Your Wi-Fi Settings
When managing your Wi-Fi settings, it’s also important to know how to change Wi-Fi password to ensure network security. Just like switching between 5GHz and 2.4GHz, changing your Wi-Fi password is a crucial step in maintaining a secure and optimized connection for all your devices. Ensuring your network has a strong, unique password can help protect against unauthorized access, which is essential for both 5GHz and 2.4GHz networks.
Choosing the Right Wi-Fi Band for Your Needs
When deciding between 5GHz and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, having a reliable internet provider is key to getting the best performance. A good internet provider ensures you have a strong connection, making it easier to enjoy fast speeds on 5GHz or better coverage on 2.4GHz. This way, you can fully benefit from your Wi-Fi network, no matter which band you choose.
FAQs
To switch from 5GHz to 2.4GHz, log into your router’s settings through a web browser. Go to the Wireless Settings section, select 2.4GHz, save the changes, and restart the router.
On Windows 11, open Device Manager, right-click your network adapter, and select Properties. Under the Advanced tab, choose 5GHz as your preferred band.
On your iPhone, go to Settings → Wi-Fi and choose the 2.4GHz network if both networks are shown. If not, you may need to adjust your router settings directly.
On Android, go to Wi-Fi settings. If your router broadcasts both networks, you’ll see separate options for 2.4GHz and 5GHz. Simply select the network you want to connect to. If the option isn’t available, you might need to change the settings on your router.
Conclusion
Knowing how to switch from 5GHz to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi can help you get the best internet connection for your needs. If you need fast speeds and are close to the router, 5GHz is the way to go. But if you need your Wi-Fi to reach farther or have many smart devices, 2.4GHz is your friend.
By following the simple steps above, you can easily switch between 2.4GHz and 5GHz on different devices and make sure you’re always getting the best connection possible.
Umer is a skilled content writer with over two years of experience. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management. Umer enjoys writing engaging and conversational articles that connect with readers of all ages. In his free time, he loves to take part in various sports whenever he gets the opportunity, bringing his energetic spirit to both his work and play.
