Why 2.4GHz is Common for WiFi: Understanding the Usage and Benefits
Unless you have an older router, it will support both 2.4 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi connections. However, older devices may only support 2.4 GHz. Additionally, the 2.4 GHz range provides a greater distance from the station to a device compared to 5 GHz.
2.4 GHz vs. 5 GHz: Distance and Penetration
2.4 GHz has been the standard for years, and 5 GHz is a relatively new technology. Many modern routers are designed to be backwards compatible with 2.4 GHz signals. Although the 5 GHz signal travels the same distance as 2.4 GHz, 2.4 GHz is better at penetrating walls and other structures, making it more suitable for network connectivity in homes and offices.
Modern Router Capabilities
Modern routers allow you to broadcast two different signals – one of each – or a hybrid signal of both types, where the connected device must determine which signal it can connect to. For example, it could be due to an older router, a more modern and cheaper router with only one band, or a newer router that has been configured to operate solely on the 2.4 GHz band.
Common WiFi Frequencies
WiFi primarily uses 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The newest standard, Wi-Fi 6E, uses 6 GHz, but its deployment is much smaller compared to 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Still, due to its availability and ease of use, 2.4 GHz remains one of the most commonly used frequencies.
2.4 GHz Frequency: ISM Band
The 2.4 GHz band is part of the ISM band (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical). These are frequency bands reserved for unlicensed radio use. This designation means that you don’t need a broadcasting license to operate in this band, unlike for television or radio stations.
The 2.4 GHz band was designated for unlicensed use in 1947 as part of the FCC's 1947 Annual Report. This was established by international agreement to allow for the use of these frequencies without requiring licenses for industrial, scientific, and medical applications.
Why 2.4 GHz is Preferred
2.4 GHz is preferred for several reasons. Firstly, it offers a wider coverage range, making it ideal for home and small office networks where signal penetration through walls and other structures is critical. Additionally, the 2.4 GHz band is less crowded compared to the 5 GHz band, reducing the chances of interference from other devices such as cordless phones and microwaves.
The 5 GHz band, on the other hand, provides higher data speeds but with a shorter range and less penetration through structures. This makes it more suitable for environments where high-speed networking is crucial and where devices are closer to the router.
To summarize, 2.4 GHz is commonly used for WiFi due to its greater coverage range, better penetration through walls, and less crowded frequency band, making it the preferred choice for home and small office networks.