I'm curious to understand the benefits of using 5GHz wifi connection over my 2.4GHz. I tested the speed and it looks as if 2.4GHz has better performance (all other things being equal). Is it just a different frequency and channel?
MacBook Pro, OS X Mountain Lion (10.8.2), iPad, iPhone, AppleTV
5 GHz, as you might imagine, is a higher frequency that will support higher bandwidth.
There are very few 5 GHz networks in operation, so there is minimal chance of interference with other networks....almost all which are 2.4 GHz. That will change as just about all new routers being introduced are dual band 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz devices.
But, everything has a downside, and the rub with 5 GHz is that the higher frequency signals are weaker than 2.4 GHz signals, and do not penetrate walls, ceilings or other obstructions as well as 2.4 GHz.
If you have line of sight between your computer and the wireless router, 5 GHz will provide a faster connection with higher bandwidth capability.
If the wireless signal must pass through a wall or two, 2.4 GHz will probably provide a stronger connection, but it will not be as fast as 5 GHz and there is much greater likelihood of interference issues from other nearby wireless networks. Most cordless phones use the 2.4 GHz frequency as well, so that complicates the potential interference issues.
That is exactly what is happening. At some point...depending on obstructions.... the 2.4 GHz signal will likely run faster than the 5 GHz signal.
The bottom line....simply connecting to 5 GHz does not always assure you of the best connection quality.
I ran a speedtest and found 5GHz actually ran slower than my 2.4GHz signal. I attribute that to signal attenuation as you imply in your response.
What are the benefits of 2.4GHz v. 5Ghz wifi connection?
