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Pros and Cons of 5GHz WiFi Routers

WiFi networking solutions have developed substantially in the recent years. One of the most recent inventions is the router with a dual band. The router supports the 5GHz and 2.4GHz frequencies. The dual frequency band routers find significant applications in places that have increased interference and for splitting traffic into two bands.

Before purchasing a 5GHz router, you should understand some of the merits and demerits of this technology to see to it that you get all the advantages offered by the technology for your business and home. Here are some of the pros and cons of the technology:

Merits of the 5GHz WiFi router

a) No interference from nearby devices

The 5GHz router is not sensitive to interference from many types of wireless devices that might be found around businesses and homes. Most devices like the microwave oven, alarm systems, wireless speakers, baby monitors or any other device emitting radio frequency waves emit them at 2.4 GHz. This means that the radio waves will not affect the 5GHz router.

b) Less crowding by other networks

The 5GHz router avoids the overcrowding linked to the 2.4GHz routers by providing non overlapping channels ranging from channel 8 to 23. Such channels depend on how they are enforced and whether the router is a double channel router or not. This allows more networks to cohabit without causing interference to each other.

“Cons” of the 5 GHz WiFi routers

a) Limited range

A lower frequency device usually transmits signals further away than higher frequencies. Therefore, 5GHz routers have a lesser ranges than the ones on 2.4GHz range. However, you can increase the range of 5GHz routers by using a higher-gain antenna and mounting it in the best place for line of sight:  Use an RP-SMA cable to mount connect an upgraded antenna to your WiFi access point.

b) Higher cost and non compatible to most devices

The 5GHz features on networking devices are usually additional cost on the network and at times, they are not there at all. For example, most fixed configuration devices come with a 2.4GHz band so making the devices capable of receiving a 5 GHz frequency requires additional expensive devices like the USB WiFi adapter. Some devices from the major vendors such as are not compatible with the 5GHz frequency bands, but they do have a few options.


c) Inability to penetrate obstructions

The 5GHz router is unable to produce signals that can penetrate wooden walls and metal walls. There are some power restrictions that apply to the 5GHz router that further lowers its ability to penetrate obstructions.

Many people who opt to buy routers normally want to have the one which can support both the 2.4GHz frequency band and the 5GHz frequency bands. You should always research on the manufacturers website on whether the router you are about to buy supports the two frequencies simultaneously. Avoid router models that support one frequency at a time