Imagine that you have just moved and contracted a fixed Internet service for your new home. As soon as they install the router, two Wi-Fi options appear: one identified as 2.4 GHz and the other as 5 GHz. This is when the question arises: What is the difference between them and which is the best choice?
In conversation with CNN Brasil, the professor Daniel Nunes, from Inatel (National Telecommunications Institute), explained that the difference is the frequency range in which they operate. In other words, in which part of the electromagnetic spectrum your Wi-Fi works, in 2.4 GHz or in 5 GHz.
The professor emphasizes that there is no better or worse belt for someone to use at home. This depends on how the person will use the network, as the two options have different characteristics.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the 2.4 GHz Band
“The 2.4 GHz band is widely used and, therefore, causes a lot of interference”, points out the expert. It is common for users to experience Internet problems at home due to interference from other Wi-Fi routers. Furthermore, microwave devices or equipment that uses Bluetooth, such as a keyboard and mousecan also interfere with the Wi-Fi network as they use a frequency range close to 2.4 GHz.
However, Nunes highlights that the range of this band is greater. Therefore, if you need to connect a device to the Internet that is far from the router, the 2.4 GHz band is more suitable. This may be the case with security cameras outside the house.
Advantages and disadvantages of the 5 GHz band
The professor explains that the 5 GHz band has been used for less time and that, therefore, is less susceptible to interferenceas fewer devices operate at this frequency. Another advantage is that the range offers highest internet speed.
The downside, however, is that the range is smaller. “If your router is in the office and you use streaming in the living room, it will work. But if it is further away, you may have more problems”, says the professor.
In short, the choice depends mainly on your distance from the router and the required speed. For a person who wants maximum speed for gaming or streaming in 4K, using Wi-Fi at 5 GHz is the best option. Now, if you are far from the router, the 2.4 GHz band can guarantee a more stable connection.
