Not only does 5GHz offer faster speeds, but you’ll probably encounter less
interference from other wireless networks and devices, because the 5GHz
frequency is not as commonly used. (It doesn’t handle obstructions and
distances quite as well, though, so it won’t necessarily reach as far as a 2.4GHz
signal does.)
Most modern dual-band routers should offer you the option to use the same
QHWZRUNQDPHRU66,'RQERWKEDQGV&KHFN\RXUURXWHU¶VDGPLQLVWUDWLRQ
LQWHUIDFHORRNIRUWKH*+]QHWZRUNRSWLRQDQGJLYHLWWKHVDPH66,'DQG
password as your 2.4GHz network. That way, your devices will automatically
choose the best signal whenever they can.
,I\RXUURXWHUGRHVQ¶WRIIHU\RXWKHRSWLRQWRXVHWKHVDPH66,'MXVWJLYHLW
another name—like SmithHouse-5GHz—and try to connect to that one
manually whenever possible.)
- CHANGE THAT CHANNEL
Interference is a big issue, especially for those who live in densely populated
areas. Signals from other wireless networks can impact speeds, not to mention
some cordless phone systems, microwaves, and other electronic devices.
(YHUSOD\ZLWKZDONLHWDONLHVDVDNLG"<RXPD\UHPHPEHUKRZWKHXQLWVQHHGHG
to be on the same “channel” in order for you to hear each other. And if you
happened to be on the same channel as your neighbors, you could listen in on
someone else’s conversation, even if they were using a completely different set.