When connecting to the Internet wirelessly, you can do so on the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequency. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, so choosing correctly which one to use will be key. In this article we are going to focus on the distance at which the wireless network begins to fail at 5 GHz. Therefore, beyond that distance you should not connect devices.
Keep in mind that the conditions are not always the same. We cannot speak of an exact distance, since it will depend on factors such as the quality of the receiver, whether or not there are obstacles, possible interference, etc. At least, we can give approximate values, both indoors and outdoors.
5 GHz is more limited
The first thing you should know is that the 5 GHz frequency is more limited compared to 2.4 GHz. This last band is ideal for connecting devices from further away. For example, if you have home automation sensors distributed throughout your home, this frequency is perfect as it is less sensitive to obstacles and distance. On the other hand, to have maximum speed it is better to use 5 GHz.
But what is the maximum distance at which 5 GHz works? Generally, indoors it can work up to about 15 meters. Outdoors, where there are no obstacles, it can reach up to 30 or even 40 meters. But of course, they are not exact measurements and it may depend on the router and the capacity of the receivers.
These 15 meters indoors, for example, can be greatly reduced if there are many walls, thick walls, furniture, metal sheets, etc. All of this can have a negative effect, so the signal will be limited and you will have problems achieving good speed and stability on your devices.
Therefore, more or less calculate about 15 meters indoors. From there, it is better that you connect to the 2.4 GHz frequency. Now, if you see that you have many walls and obstacles, perhaps it will be reduced to about 10 meters. It will depend, therefore, on each case.
Not all devices are compatible
One more factor to take into account is that not all devices are compatible with 5 GHz. Although most today are dual band, which means they can work at 2.4 and 5 GHz, there are certain devices that will only operate on the first frequency.
For example, many home automation devices only work on the 2.4 GHz frequency. Some examples are smart light bulbs or plugs. They are devices that do not need high speed, so it is simply important that they receive the signal well and not worry about the distance from the router.
In short, it is important that you take into account the distance of the devices you connect to the router. In the case of using 5 GHz, you should more or less calculate about 15 meters indoors and about 30 meters outdoors. If you are further away, the 5 GHz network will not appear. Locating the router well will be key to better distribute the wireless connection.
