What is WiFi Dual Band? Full Explanation (2023)

Wirelessly connecting to the Internet will require you to connect to a WiFi network via a router. When using a new router model, you will likely read the “dual-band WiFi” words on its features. Some users have also asked, “what is WiFi dual band?”

What is WiFi Dual Band

Setting your router in the right WiFi band is crucial when browsing the Internet on various devices. This guide will show you what WiFi dual band is, how it works, and the difference between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz WiFi.

Read on to know more.

 

Table of Contents

What is WiFi Dual Band?

Dual-band WiFi means your Wi-Fi router can handle two different frequencies, which can either be 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz. Having a second WiFi frequency available makes your WiFi more versatile on various connection setups. When your router supports only one WiFi band (2.4 GHz), it’s called a single-band router.

 

2.4 GHz vs 5 GHz WiFi

 

2.4 GHz WiFi Band

The first and simplest WiFi routers can only transmit data over one band or frequency, which is 2.4 GHz. This frequency enables you to transfer and receive signals over a larger area, meaning it can go through walls, concrete, and other solid objects. However, you will encounter more interference with other WiFi-enabled and various wireless devices, such as baby monitors, microwaves, Bluetooth devices, and more.

 

5 GHz WiFi Band

If you own a more modern router, it will likely have the 5 GHz band. Compared to the standard 2.4 GHz, a 5 GHz frequency will grant you more exclusive connections and faster speeds. It will also contain more channels, meaning it can host a variety of devices without experiencing interference from nearby signals.

However, placing your router close to your devices is ideal since 5 GHz WiFi works best on short-range connections. Compared to the 2.4 GHz band, this frequency quickly slows down once you move further away from the router.

 

How Dual-Band WiFi Works on Connected Devices

While dual-band WiFi gives you two main frequencies when connecting to the Internet, your device will sometimes pick which is compatible with the device’s network settings

For instance, most phones will automatically select 2.4 GHz by default since it’s a more suitable connection than 5 GHz. If your smartphone supports dual-band WiFi and you want to switch it to 5 GHz, you can manually change it through your phone’s network settings.

 

Final Thoughts

Routers that support dual-band WiFi are a great option in your home. It allows you to switch on one frequency over another when needed in certain situations. Hopefully, this guide helps you know more about dual-band WiFi and how it works on connected devices.