In the home network, WiFi is mainly available in two frequencies: 2.4 and 5 GHz. One frequency, for example, is a 5 GHz frequency, which offers higher speeds, fewer interference incidents and usually less heavy usage. The range of 5 GHz is comparatively short and is therefore particularly suitable, for example, for smart TVs or game consoles, which are usually located near the router and at the same time require a stable and fast connection to the WiFi.
In summary, the 5 GHz band offers a shorter range but transmits data at a higher speed. Newer routers have both 2.4 GHz WiFi and 5 GHz WiFi, so users usually have a choice of which band to use, circumstances permitting.
Risk of confusion: 5 GHz WiFi does not transmit or has no connection with 5G mobile radio signals. The 5G mobile radio standard has no overlap with the 5 GHz WLAN.
However, it is the case that at a higher frequency the range decreases. Compared to the 2.4 GHz frequency, the 5 GHz network has a much smaller range and is therefore limited to one floor, for example. Walls in particular slow down connectivity a lot. At the same time, the use of the 5 GHz frequency is hardware-dependent. Many older routers and devices do not yet support the connection to this network.
The 5 GHz band tends to be less crowded than the 2.4 GHz band because it is used by fewer devices and has 23 channels available for devices, whereas the 2.4 GHz band has only 11 channels. The number of channels available depends on the WLAN regulations in the region.
In general, the difference between 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz is speed and range. If higher performance or speed is required, for example in streaming or gaming, the 5 GHz frequency band should be used. If a further range is desired, the 2.4 GHz frequency band should be selected.
