Dual-Band ONT - Router
Home internet is a basic necessity and FTTH is the right solution.
This article aims to provide clarity around dual-band routers, including how they work and how they compare to similar products.
When you connect a phone, tablet, Laptop or another WiFi-enabled device to your router, the router transmits a wireless signal to your device. To get there, the signal travels along one of two frequency bands: 2.4GHz or 5GHz.
As the name might suggest, a dual-band router emits wireless signals on two separate frequency bands (2.4GHz and 5GHz). By leveraging two bands, dual-band routers give you more flexibility in terms of how you want to connect to the internet.
Specifically, more devices rely on the 2.4GHz band to connect, so you will likely face lower internet speeds and more interference. This is exceptionally true if you live in a densely populated area.
On the other hand, only more modern digital devices are compatible with 5GHz. Plus, you need a dual-band router to use the 5GHz band. As a result, fewer connections operate on this band, and you’ll experience faster internet speeds.
Dual-band routers allow you to split your internet usage between these two bands, offering improved speed and reliability. Essentially, each band takes on a smaller volume of traffic, so you can have broader coverage while maintaining acceptable speed and connectivity across your devices.
Select a dual-band router
When exploring router options, you’ll want to keep these important points in mind.
First, think about what rate of speed you need for your home internet. High-quality streaming, online gaming and file transferring will use more bandwidth than scrolling Instagram or using WhatsApp.
Keep in mind that the manufacturers’ advertised speeds can be somewhat misleading, so it’s best to refer to product reviews to get an idea of the actual speed you can expect.
Next, factor in how much you’re willing to spend on a router. If you need WiFi for critical tasks like working from home, you might be inclined to spend a bit more on a reliable, high-end dual-band router.
State-of-the-art routers also offer additional functionality, like smartphone apps, multiple USB ports and support for add-on technology, like WiFi extenders or smart home devices.
Lastly, consider how much assistance you will need when setting up and maintaining your router. Some vendors offer stateside support teams to help you troubleshoot in real-time. If you think you’ll need this extra boost, seek out a manufacturer that provides this type of support.
Network speed of a dual-band router
To find out the speed of a dual-band router, manufacturers combine the rates of each frequency band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) and include that figure in the description of the device.
For instance, a router that’s listed as an AC1200 model has a combined maximum speed of 1200 Mbps (300 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 900 Mbps on the 5GHz band).