2.4 GHz vs 5 GHz WiFi frequency: What’s the difference?

WiFi operates on radio frequencies, and the two most used bands are 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, each with their own strengths and limitations. These refer to the frequency at which data is transmitted between your router and your devices. 

• 2.4 GHz has been around longer and is supported by nearly all WiFi-enabled devices.  

• 5 GHz is a newer standard, offering higher data rates but over shorter distances. 

Choosing the right frequency for your devices is essential for achieving optimal performance, whether you're browsing the web, streaming videos, or gaming. 

The 2.4 GHz WiFi was the first widely used WiFi frequency and marked the beginning of wireless networking at home. Its lower frequency allows for a longer range and better coverage through walls, making it great for larger spaces or devices far from the router.  

However, because it’s so commonly used (not just by WiFi, but also by microwaves, baby monitors, and Bluetooth), it tends to get congested and can suffer from interference. While it opened the door to wireless connectivity, it also highlighted the need for faster, less crowded alternatives as our homes filled with more connected devices.

When to use 2.4 GHz

The 5 GHz WiFi band came next, operating at a higher frequency than 2.4 GHz, with faster data transfer speeds and less interference, making it ideal for handling higher data demands in crowded environments. This was a game-changer for busy spots like libraries, cafés, and other public WiFi hotspots trying to get online at the same time.  

It’s still widely used today, especially for activities that need faster speeds and a reliable connection for streaming, video calls, or gaming. 

When to use 5 GHz

Perfect for high-bandwidth activities like streaming, gaming, and video calls, 5 GHz is less prone to interference and has faster speeds. 

1. Speed

• 5 GHz offers faster data transfer rates due to a wider range of available channels and less interference. 

• 2.4 GHz is slower but can still be adequate for basic online tasks like browsing, emailing, or streaming in standard definition. 

Not sure if your WiFi connection is fast enough? Run a quick test with our broadband speed checker to see if it is keeping up with your needs. 

2. Range

• 2.4 GHz has a longer range and better wall penetration, making it more suitable for larger homes or areas with many physical obstructions. 

• 5 GHz covers a smaller area and may struggle to maintain signal strength through walls and floors.

3. Interference

• 2.4 GHz is more prone to interference because it’s used by many devices like microwaves, cordless phones, and Bluetooth gadgets. 

• 5 GHz has less interference, making it ideal in densely populated areas or homes with many connected devices.

4. Device compatibility

• 2.4 GHz is supported by older and newer devices alike. 

• 5 GHz may not be available on older smartphones, laptops, or smart home devices.

If you’re looking for better range, 2.4 GHz is the way to go, but if speed and performance matter more, 5 GHz is your best bet. The 2.4 GHz band can reach farther and work better through walls, but it’s slower and more likely to face interference from other household devices like microwaves, baby monitors, and security cameras. That’s especially true in flats or busy buildings where many people are using the same frequency.  

On the other hand, 5 GHz offers faster speeds and less congestion, making it ideal for things like streaming, video calls, or reducing lag while gaming. Just keep in mind it works best over shorter distances.

Most modern routers are dual-band, meaning they broadcast both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz signals. This allows you to switch between frequencies based on your needs, or let your devices automatically connect to the best band. 

The 2.4 GHz band offers wider coverage and better penetration through walls, while the 5 GHz band delivers faster speeds with less interference over shorter distances. By using both bands simultaneously, dual-band routers provide a balanced solution for performance and range across various devices and usage scenarios. 

To switch between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, first make sure your router or modem has WiFi enabled and supports both frequency bands. You can usually find this information in your router’s settings or user manual. 

If you’re using a Virgin Media Hub, your router is dual-band, which means it broadcasts both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz WiFi signals at the same time.

These will usually appear as two network names (SSIDs). For example, VM123456-2G and VM123456-5G. By default, your Hub will try to automatically connect each device to the best frequency.  

You can manually choose which network each of your devices connects to, based on your speed and range needs. Learn how to configure advanced settings on your Hub to take full control of your WiFi setup.  

If you're using a Virgin Media Hub 5, you’re already set up for WiFi 6, our latest generation of WiFi technology that improves how both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands perform. It means faster speeds, better reliability, and less congestion when lots of devices are connected at once. 

WiFi 6 doesn’t replace your current bands—it makes them work smarter. So, whether you're on 2.4 GHz for range or 5 GHz for speed, WiFi 6 helps you get the most out of both. 

Whether you're streaming, gaming, or working from home, our routers are built to keep you connected, fast, and reliably. 

Virgin Media’s Hub 3 and Hub 4 support dual-band WiFi, ensuring your devices use the best frequency. With the Hub 5, you gain even more advanced features, including stronger signals, smoother performance, and better device management. 

All of our broadband packages come with superfast Hub 3, Hub 4, or Hub 5 routers, each fully equipped to handle the speeds we offer, from 125 Mbps up to 1 Gbps and beyond with our gigabit broadband. 

Not sure what speeds are available to you? Use our postcode checker to see all the broadband options in your area.