It is frustrating when your Wi-Fi signal keeps dropping or you're continually fighting with slow network speeds. If these problems sound familiar, there's a high probability that the wireless networks in both situations are experiencing interference from other electronics nearby.
But don't worry because this isn’t just some coincidence - interference is one reason why many people experience trouble connecting wirelessly to devices around their homes! What would help most often? Finding out which channel best suits you will help you out. Let’s take a look at these channels to choose from.
UNII-1
Frequency range: 5150 MHz - 5250 MHz
The UNII-I channels are 36, 40, 44, 48, 149, 153, 157, 161, and 165. If you are looking for the best performance, these are the channels to use. However, they may not be available in all areas, so it is essential to check with your local service provider first before selecting these channels.
PROS
CONS
UNII-2
Frequency range: 5250 MHz- 5350 MHz
The UNII-II channels are 52, 56, 60, 64, 100, 104, 108, 112, 116. These channels offer less performance than the UNII-I channels but are still viable options. Again, it is best to check with your local service provider before selecting these channels to ensure they are available in your area.
No matter how good the quality of your router is, it will make no difference if your location cannot support your selected channel.PROS
CONS
UNIT-3
Frequency range: 5725 MHz- 5850 MHz
The UNI-III band is a relatively new addition to the Wi-Fi spectrum. Since UNII bands are still best used in their respective geographical areas, they aren't yet available everywhere. The UNI-III channels are 149, 153, 157, 161, and 165.
PROS
CONS
What to Consider When Selecting Channels
No matter how good your router is, you will not see the best performance if you do not have a clear path to the device you are trying to connect to. Before selecting a channel, you must take into consideration these factors:
1. The distance between the router and client devices
If you have a clear path between your router and client device, channels 36-48 will likely give you the best performance. However, if there are any obstructions in the way, like buildings or hills, then you may need to select a different channel.
2. The size of the space or building
If you have a small building or room, the best performance will be seen on channels 36-48. However, if you have ample space with multiple floors between your router and client devices, the best results may come from channels 100 to 132 as it allows for much higher signal strengths that can overcome obstacles such as concrete walls.
3. The frequency of interference in your areas
The best channel for best Wi-Fi performance will be least interfered with by other devices. If you live in the city and have many wireless networks, you may need to select a different channel than if your area was more rural.
However, if you are in a congested area with many Wi-Fi networks, these channels may not be the best option because of all the interference. Try going up or down one channel to see if performance improves.
4. Your service provider
Channels that your service provider recommends may be different than what is best for you. Check with your service provider to see if they have a specific channel or channels that they recommend using.
5. Manufacturer's suggestions
Some manufacturers will suggest specific channels as well. Check the manual for your device to see which channels are suggested.
How to Choose a Better Channel?
Wi-Fi networks can get crowded with interference when devices use the same channel. This isn't good for your connection, so it's crucial not only to make sure you choose a good channel but also to consider non-overlapping channels too! You'll find 23 non-overlapping 5GHz Wi-Fi frequencies instead of 2GHz channels when it comes to not having interference.
Overlapping Wi-Fi channels are one of the leading causes of network interference. If you were to choose a broader channel width that bonds multiple overlapping channels in this band, it is more likely than not that you will experience a weaker wireless performance than the expected faster speeds.
Set 5 GHz Wi-Fi channel width to 20, 40, or 80 MHz. Wider Wi-Fi channel widths— including 40 MHz and 80 MHz— are best used in the 5 GHz frequency band. In this band, there are significantly more Wi-Fi channels and non-overlapping channels.
The 5GHz band is less crowded and is more equipped to support wide Wi-Fi channel widths and the narrow 20 MHz width. The key to adjusting Wi-Fi channel width settings for this band is to enable support for all channel widths rather than a single-wide channel width.
5Ghz Wi-Fi Channel FAQ
1. What is the difference between these channels?
The difference between these is that it allows maximum throughput, which means higher speeds during transfers. It also reduces collisions, enabling computers on both sides to communicate better without any hiccups.
2. What's the best way to optimize my home network?
For a speedy connection, turn on that 5 GHz radio! Set it up with A/AC/N and let all your gadgets be connected.
3. Which is the best 2.4GHz channel?
The 2.4GHz frequency bands feature eleven channels. You can use channels 1, 6, and 11 and see if there's no overlap between those three channels. However, if your neighbor uses channel one and your neighbor uses channel 2, you may use another channel.
4. Is 80MHz better than 40MHz?
If you need a higher data transfer rate, go for 80MHz. However, you are likely to find congestion when there is even minor traffic because there are not enough non-overlapping channels for you to operate within.
You use channels 1, 6, and 11 and understand there's no overlap between those three channels. It would help if you likewise considered your proximity to a nearby neighbor. If your neighbor uses channel one and your neighbor uses channel 2, you may use another channel.
5. Is 5GHz good for gaming?
Since 5GHz offers the best possible speed that you can get on your internet connection and from your router, it is always recommended for you to choose 5GHz for your gaming needs.
