Is 5GHz Wireless better than 2.4GHz ?

Wireless computer network equipment typically uses radio signals in either a 2.4 GHz range or a 5 GHz range.

The GHz range of a wireless radio is only partially related to the speed of a wireless network. For example, 802.11a wireless operates at 5GHz and 802.11g at 2.4GHz, but both support the same maximum data rate of 54 Mbps. However, newer 802.11n routers have the capability of simultaneous dual-band operation on both 5GHz and 2.4GHz ranges, allowing clients to connect on different bands for more flexibility and less interference. 802.11ac expands on that, running entirely in the 5GHz band.

Advantages of 5GHz:
The 5GHz band is less likely to be congested. The 2.4GHz frequency range is much more prone to interference, as it is commonly used by other wireless networks in the area, as well as cordless phones, garage door openers and other home appliances and consumer products. The 5GHz band can also offer much higher throughput (using the right technology) with the same channel width.

Disadvantages of 5GHz:
In general, the higher the frequency of a wireless signal, the shorter its range. Thus, 2.4GHz networks cover a substantially larger range than 5GHz wireless networks. In particular, the higher frequency wireless signals of 5GHz networks do not penetrate solid objects nearly as well as 2.4GHz signals, limiting their reach inside homes. Recent 802.11ac devices may be able to mitigate some of this disatvantage by using beamforming.

The Bottom Line:
5GHz and 2.4GHz are simply different frequencies, each with its advantages and disadvantages. To get the best of both worlds, some recent routers have the capability for dual-band operation in both ranges simultaneously. 5GHz offers higher throughput at a shorter distance, while 2.4GHz offers increased coverage and higher solid object penetration.

Note: When choosing the band for your router, it is also important to consider the capabilities of your wireless clients. Most current laptops and other mobile wireless devices work in the 2.4GHz band, while media streaming devices have increasingly better adoption in the 5GHz band. The migration to wider adoption of 5GHz will probably continue with the shift to the higher throughput 802.11ac.

User Reviews/Comments:

rate: avg:

by anonymous - 2012.04.08 10:44

My own opinion is that "N" series routers no matter 2.4 ghz,5 Ghz or a duel router that works on both. The issue is that although your devices may be N compliant for either 2.4 or 5. Does not mean you will see significant speed improvements. So many other issues still happen with compatibility, range, physical objects limiting signal and quality of hardware. For example many Mac laptops only support 2.4 N and not 5. Other issues include devices that were classified as Pre N standard compliant. Which means they adopted the N standard they thought would be the final. I have seen these devices perform poorly in speed. Some not much above the 54 G standard. I think we over think the advantages of N as it only really helps your local network speed. Do not think it will affect your internet speed because that is more controlled by your provider. Even G routers generally can provide speeds plenty above your internet connection speed.
In the end I find N series routers at 5Ghz better for close connections and fast speed and 2.4 Ghz routers for range, average speed and compatibility.

by Roland - 2013.02.20 23:06

The 2.4GHz band is also used by rural ISPs to provide fixed wireless service. My ISP, cavenet.com, has a 2.4GHz antenna on a tower 2.5 miles from my house. I have a 12" square panel antenna 25' up a tree that communicates with it. I don't think 5GHz could do that, especially if it's raining or snowing. Short-range local stuff should be on 5GHz.