What are WiFi 2.4GHz and 5GHz? Can you mod a phone to support different bands?

Nowadays, WiFi 2.4GHz is very commonly used everywhere. But did you know that besides WiFi 2.4GHz, there is also WiFi 5GHz? So, what makes WiFi 5GHz stand out, and how is it different from WiFi 2.4GHz? Let's explore this through the following article!

1. What is 2.4GHz Wi-Fi?

2.4GHz Wi-Fi, or the 2.4GHz band, is a Wi-Fi channel that transmits signals at a 2.4GHz frequency.

There are several technologies that use the 2.4GHz band, such as Bluetooth, microwave signals, and TV signals. This means that signals on the same band can sometimes interfere with each other, causing the data transmission speed to not reach its full potential. WiFi 2.4GHz can support a maximum connection speed of 450Mbps or 600Mbps, depending on the type of router you use.

2. What is 5GHz Wi-Fi?

5GHz Wi-Fi, or the 5GHz band, is a Wi-Fi channel that transmits signals at a 5GHz frequency. Wi-Fi using the 5GHz band experiences less interference from other devices compared to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi. However, the signal transmission range is shorter and more easily obstructed than 2.4GHz. WiFi 5GHz can support connection speeds up to 1300Mbps under ideal conditions.

3. What is dual-band Wi-Fi?

Dual-band Wi-Fi is essentially a router that supports both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.

There are two types of dual-band:

• Selectable dual-band: Only one of the two bands, either 2.4GHz or 5GHz, can be used at a time.
• Simultaneous dual-band: Both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands can be used simultaneously.

There are also tri-band Wi-Fi systems that include two 5GHz bands and one 2.4GHz band, serving various purposes that require high-speed connections.

Comparison between 2.4GHz and 5GHz standards

1. Speed

Under ideal conditions, the network speed of WiFi 5GHz can reach up to 1300Mbps, which is impressive compared to the 450-600Mbps speed of WiFi 2.4GHz. This means you can download files faster, open web pages quicker, and play online games without worrying about network issues.

2. Range

According to a principle in radio wave transmission, the higher the frequency, the higher the signal loss over distance. Because WiFi 5GHz operates at a higher frequency, it does not have as wide a coverage range as WiFi 2.4GHz.

3. Interference

WiFi 5GHz is not affected by interference from other devices. With WiFi 2.4GHz, devices like Bluetooth speakers and headsets that use electromagnetic waves can interfere with the network, reducing its speed. WiFi 5GHz, however, remains unaffected by these wireless devices, providing a more stable network speed.

4. Congestion

Since WiFi 5GHz operates on a wider band than WiFi 2.4GHz, you won't have to worry about congestion when multiple devices access the network. This ensures that your network connection remains stable, allowing for smooth operations.

When to choose 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands

1. Choosing the 2.4GHz band

You should choose the 2.4GHz band when you need the Wi-Fi signal to cover a larger area and the environment has many obstacles. Wi-Fi 2.4GHz can smoothly handle basic web browsing and social media usage.

2. Choosing the 5GHz band

You should choose the 5GHz band when you need a smooth online gaming experience with low latency, high-quality Full HD or 4K online video streaming, or when you need to transfer large data files. However, the coverage range of Wi-Fi 5GHz is quite narrow, so you might need to broadcast both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands simultaneously for wider coverage.

Can you mod a phone to support different bands?

Modifying a phone to support different bands is not possible.

Changing the band on a phone is a complex process that requires in-depth knowledge of the device's hardware and software. Tampering with the hardware can cause severe damage to the phone, void the warranty, and even pose a risk to the user.