Different Wi-Fi Frequency Bands and Wi-Fi Bandwidth Explained
Wi-Fi Frequency Bands and Range
Frequency bands are the ranges of radio wave frequencies that are used to transfer data in the wireless spectrum, and which can be further broken down into different WiFi channels.
The two poignant Wi-Fi frequency bands include 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Ever since Wi-Fi's introduction, there have been countless new Wi-Fi standards that have been created to improve both the speed and its coverage.
The Wi-Fi standard 802.11n was the first standard to work well in both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi frequency bands.
Keeping the coverage in consideration, 2.4 GHz is more favorable than 5 GHz. The higher frequency 5 GHz band is best for shorter distances and gives faster speed as compared to the 2.4 GHz band.
Both the frequency bands have their pros and cons, where we can receive less interference with one or can get better device compatibility with the other.
Hence, it becomes a prime decision to choose the best frequency band which depends upon various factors. To choose the best WiFi frequency band, we need to consider whether we need strong coverage throughout the physical location for which the 2.4 GHz band would be an apt choice.
To be more clear, the 5 GHz band is a better choice as compared to 2.4 GHz as it can provide faster speed.
Test your knowledge with a quick quiz!
The Wi-Fi standard 802.11n was the first standard to work well in both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi frequency bands.
Select the correct answer
Wi-Fi Bandwidth
Bandwidth is defined to be the maximum amount of data transferred via an internet connection within a given time. The most common misconception associated with bandwidth is that it is often considered to be the speed indicator of Wi-Fi. However, it's the amount of information that can be sent over an internet connection.
The best Wi-Fi bandwidth for 2.4 GHz is 20 MHz. The 2.4Ghz networks have two categories— 20MHz (the general bandwidth) and 40MHz (double of the original).
It is highly recommended to prefer choosing 20MHz-wide channels because the use of a 40MHz channel can lead to overlap with other channels and cause a major decline in performance.
On the contrary, a 5GHz network will benefit from 40MHz channels due to a boosted performance pattern.
Test your knowledge with a quick quiz!
The best Wi-Fi bandwidth for 2.4 GHz is 20 MHz.
Select the correct answer