All modern Wi-Fi devices support 2.4 GHz connections, while some equipment supports both.

Homebroadband routersthat feature both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz radios are calleddual-band wirelessrouters.

An important distinction to make is between a Wi-Fi internet and a mobile phone’s wireless internet.

An illustration showing the difference in speed between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless signals.

Lifewire / Alison Czinkota

This doesn’t cover mobile networking technology for smartphones and other devices.

GHz and data pipe Speed

Wi-Fi networking comes in a few varieties.

TheseWi-Fi standardsdefine improvements in networking technology.

5 GHz radios support higher maximum data rates in connection standards802.11n,802.11ac, and 802.11ad.

The higher the frequency of a wireless signal, the shorter itsrange.

2.4 GHz wireless networks, therefore, cover a larger range than 5 GHz networks.

Because this frequency range is commonly used in consumer products, it’s become saturated with signals.

This can slow down and interrupt Wi-Fi web connection speed in these cases.

This is because 5 GHz home routers became available after routers that use 2.4 GHz radios.

Both types of signaling have existed for many years and are both proven technologies.

However, without these limitations, 5 GHz will likely be a faster choice.

This is an emerging preferred solution for home networking.