Does Turning Off 2.4GHz Make 5GHz Faster?

Are you struggling with slow Wi-Fi? Are you sure you know the differences between 2.4GHz and
5GHz bands?

In this article, we are going to answer the common question: Does turning off 2.4GHz make
5GHz faster?

In addition, we will provide practical tips to improve your Wi-Fi speed and
optimize your internet experience.

Let’s break it down and give you easy tips for a better, faster internet.
Which is Faster: 2.4GHz or 5GHz?

Before we go into details about turning off frequencies, it is important to understand the two
bands most Wi-Fi routers use: 2.4GHz and 5GHz.

2.4GHz Band

• The 2.4GHz band offers broader coverage. This makes it ideal for larger homes.
• The 2.4GHz signal goes through walls better.
• The 2.4GHz band is more susceptible to interference and generally offers slower data rates.

5GHz Band

• The 5GHz band supports higher data rates. This makes it ideal for gaming streaming and large file transfers.
• The 5GHz band has a shorter range and it doesn’t go through walls that much.
• The 5GHz band is less crowded than 2.4GHz. As a result, the connection is more stable, especially in urban areas.

Does Turning Off 2.4GHz Make 5GHz Faster?

People often think that by turning off 2.4GHz will improve the 5GHz signal. However, is this
true? We have to make things clear.

• First of all the 2.4GHz and 5GHz are separate bands. If you disable one of them, the speed of the other won’t increase.
• Some devices only support 2.4GHz, so compatibility is an issue if you turn off this band. Most smart devices will be left without connection.
• If there are too many devices connected on one band, it can get congested. Your overall network performance will be better if devices are distributed between both bands.

To answer the question we can say that turning off 2.4GHz won’t make 5GHz faster. However, if
you use both bands strategically, your Wi-Fi will be more effective.

Should You Disable 2.4GHz?

If you decide to disable the 2.4GHz band just to see if the 5GHz band will become faster, you
have to keep a few things in mind before doing that.

Device Compatibility

You should pay attention to the devices you are using the most. Many smart home devices or
gadgets will only work on the 2.4GHz band. If you have such devices, it you shouldn’t disable
the 2.4GHz band.

Range And Obstacles

If we compare the range, the 2.4GHz band is better compared to 5GHz. It goes through walls
and other obstacles more effectively than the 5GHz band. If you live in a large home or there
are many physical obstacles, you should keep the 2.4GHz band enabled.

Network Congestion

If you live in a building or in another area with many Wi-Fi networks, it is quite possible that the
2.4GHz band is congested. This can result in interference and reduced performance.

If this is the case with you, it is better to use the 5GHz band. However, we have to mention
again that turning off the 2.4GHz band won’t improve the performance of the 5GHz band. They
operate independently.

Router Features

Check whether your router supports features like SmartConnect or band steering. These
features will switch devices automatically between the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands based on the
current signal strength and congestion.

In this case, you don’t have to disable any band manually since the router switches the device
to the right band.

Use Cases

It is also important to consider your specific usage needs. If you are doing something that
requires high bandwidth and low latency, for example online gaming or HD video streaming,
the 5GHz band is a better choice because of its faster speeds. However, for devices located
farther from the router, the 2.4GHz band is a better and more stable option.

In the end, you need to take all these factors before you make a decision to disable the 2.4GHz
band.

How To Make Your 5GHz Band Faster?

Improving the speed of your 5GHz Wi-Fi band involves several strategies.

Optimize Your Router Placement

Your Wi-Fi performance is closely connected to the position of the router in your home. If you
don’t place your router well, you can experience weak signals, slow speeds, or even dead zones.

Tips For Ideal Placement

• Place your router in the center of your home or as close to the center as possible.
• Place it on a high shelf. This will extend its reach.
• Keep the router away from metal objects, thick walls, and electronic appliances that can interfere with the signal.
• Adjust the antennas vertically to spread the signal horizontally across your home.

Upgrade Your Router

If you have an older router, it is possible that it doesn’t support the latest Wi-Fi standards. As a
result, the speeds can be slower and the range shorter.

Tips For Router Upgrade

• Consider buying a router that offers both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.
• Newer standards like Wi-Fi 6 provide improved speeds and can handle more devices simultaneously.

Manage Your Network

Managing your Wi-Fi network is something you shouldn’t ignore. This can prevent bottlenecks
and ensure optimal performance.

Tips For Better Network Management

• Update your router firmware regularly. This will enhance its functionality and security.
• Use QoS settings to prioritize bandwidth for activities that require more speed, like video conferencing or gaming.
• Set up a separate guest network to keep the performance of your main network unaffected by visitors.

Limit Interference

Other electronic devices and appliances can interfere with your Wi-Fi signal. This can make your
internet connection slow from time to time.

Tips To Reduce Interference

• Devices like microwaves, baby monitors, and Bluetooth speakers can interfere with your Wi-Fi. Make sure they are away from the router.
• Analyze the Wi-Fi channels in your area and choose the least congested one.

Extend Your Network

If you live in a larger home you may need extra help to cover Wi-Fi dead zones.

Tips For Extending Reach

• Wi-Fi Extenders can amplify your signal to reach farther areas of your home.
• A mesh Wi-Fi system consists of multiple units that work together seamlessly to provide complete coverage.

Use Wired Connections When Possible

Wired connections are definitely less flexible than Wi-Fi. However, they offer the most stable
and fastest internet speeds.

Tips For Implementing Wired Solutions

• Connect devices like desktop computers, gaming consoles, and smart TVs directly to your router using Ethernet cables.
• Powerline adapters use your home electrical wiring to extend your network without the need for long cables.

Test Your Speed Regularly

In order to monitor your internet connection and identify issues early, it is recommended to
test your speeds regularly.

Tips For Conducting Speed Tests

• Check your upload and download speeds using trusted online speed checkers.
• Make sure to test your internet speed at different times. This should make it clear how network usage affects speeds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it better to use only one Wi-Fi band for all devices?

We can say – No. Your network usage will be more balanced if you use both 2.4 and 5GHz
bands. 2.4GHz is ideal for longer range and compatibility, while 5GHz offers faster speeds.

Will my smart home devices work better on 5GHz if I turn off 2.4GHz?

Most smart home devices, especially older ones, work only with 2.4GHz bands. Turning off
2.4GHz will disconnect these devices or reduce their performance drastically.

Does a dual-band router automatically make internet faster?

A dual-band router doesn’t automatically make the internet speed faster. However, it optimizes
the overall network performance.

Can you reduce Wi-Fi interference by switching to 5GHz?

If you switch to 5GHz interference can be reduced. The 5GHz band is normally less congested
than 2.4GHz and other electronic devices don’t affect it so much. As a result, you will have a
more stable connection.

Should I disable 2.4GHz to improve gaming or streaming?

If you disable2.4GHz, it won’t improve gaming or streaming on 5GHz. For these activities,
connect your device to the 5GHz band. However, keep 2.4GHz active for other devices that
need it.

How can I maximize my 5GHz band usage?

You can do it by connecting devices that need higher speeds and bandwidth to this band. Make
sure your router is placed in a central position for optimal 5GHz range.
Conclusion

As a final answer, we can say that turning off 2.4GHz won’t speed up your 5GHz band. However,
your overall internet experience will be better if you understand and manage both frequencies.

We have to say that a well-configured network is the key element of an optimal Wi-Fi
performance.

David Rigg

Hey, I’m David. I’ve been working as a wireless network engineer and a network administrator for 15 years. During my studies, I also worked as an ISP field technician – that’s when I met Jeremy. 

I hold a bachelor’s degree in network engineering and a master’s degree in computer science and engineering. I’m also a Cisco-certified service provider. 

In my professional career, I worked for router/modem manufacturers and internet providers. I like to think that I’m good at explaining network-related issues in simple terms. That’s exactly what I’m doing on this website – I’m making simple and easy-to-follow guides on how to install, set up, and troubleshoot your networking hardware. I also review new network equipment – modems, gateways, switches, routers, extenders, mesh systems, cables, etc. 

My goal is to help regular users with their everyday network issues, educate them, and make them less scared of their equipment. In my articles, you can find tips on what to look for when buying new networking hardware, and how to adjust your network settings to get the most out of your wi-fi. 

Since my work is closely related to computers, servers, and other network equipment, I like to spend most of my spare time outdoors. When I want to blow off some steam, I like to ride my bike. I also love hiking and swimming. When I need to calm down and clear my mind, my go-to activity is fishing.