If you are building a brand new wireless network, you may wonder how to set up a 5GHz router. The best routers, after all, often come with two bands, otherwise known as a dual-band router. How to set up one of these 5GHz routers correctly? Keep reading to find out.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Modern routers tend to be dual-band models, meaning they can emit a 5GHz signal and a 2.4GHz signal to wireless networks.
- To set up a 5GHz router, head into the settings page or admin control panel, which is typically accessed by entering the IP address into a web browser.
- Find auto-configuration options in the settings page or find a section to enable a GHz network. Save your changes and test your connected devices via your Wi-Fi network.
Why Use a 5GHz Router?
5GHz is more stable and leads to a faster connection, so modern routers tend to include both a 5GHz band and the slower 2.4GHz band. However, 2.4GHz is still useful in certain scenarios, as this band offers a greater range and is the right choice for smart devices and other gadgets that only need an occasional connection. In other words, though faster, using a 5GHz connection may lead you to learn how to position antennas on a wireless router.
Insider Tip
5GHz networks tend to be stabler than 2.4GHz networks, but with a decreased range.
How to Setup 5G WiFi
The nuts and bolts here may vary depending on your actual router, but here are some universal steps to perform to get your 5GHz router up and going. Keep in mind, if you are using a new router on an old network, you may need to learn how to delete a WiFi network from a router.
STEP 1
Your first step is to connect the router to the modem and power both devices on. Connect the router to the modem via Ethernet cable and make sure that both gadgets are delivering a signal.
STEP 2
Now it’s time to actually set up the router and make sure that 5GHz is enabled. Head into the router’s dedicated settings page or admin control panel. Unfortunately, this process differs according to the specifics of each router. Check the instructions or perform a quick web search.
STEP 3
In most cases, enter the router’s public IP address into a web browser. You can find this static IP address on the exterior of the router on a sticker next to the default password and default network name. In rare instances, you may need to download and install firmware software.
STEP 4
Once you are in the settings, look for auto-configuration tools or, if you are experienced, manually configure the router yourself. Make sure 5GHz is enabled and save your changes when you are finished.
F.A.Q.S
How many WiFi networks do you see that belong to you?
You may have several networks going via your router, including a guest network. If you see a Wi-Fi network that you don’t use anymore, feel free to delete it.
How to change your router channel?
When it comes to channel selection with wireless networks, you’ll have to head into the settings or admin control panel. Each band, including Wi-Fi 6, has a different selection of channels.
How do bands affect smart home devices?
Smart devices on wireless networks tend to do well with a 2.4 GHz network, thanks to the increased range. A 5GHz network is still a decent choice for these gadgets but the increased GHz band may be overkill.
STAT: Don’t create or join networks that use older, deprecated security protocols. These are no longer secure, they reduce network reliability and performance, and they cause your device to show a security warning. (source)
REFERENCES:
- https://www.xfinity.com/support/articles/change-wifi-mode-admin-tool-xfinity-xfi
- https://www.verizon.com/support/knowledge-base-225361/
- https://www.centurylink.com/home/help/internet/modems-and-routers/wireless-setup/change-wifi-channel-5ghz.htmlr
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT202068
- https://www.tp-link.com/us/support/faq/683/
