Note: If you have a DayStarr managed router or Whole Home Wi-Fi package, DayStarr is happy to do this for you! Just give us a call and we’ll help set things up.

Most modern routers broadcast two types of Wi-Fi signals — 2.4GHz and 5GHz — and each one has its own strengths.

 2.4GHz Wi-Fi

  • Longer range – travels farther through walls and floors

  • Lower speed – best for basic browsing, email, and smart home devices

  • More crowded – shared by many devices

5GHz Wi-Fi

  • Faster speed – great for streaming, gaming, video calls

  • Shorter range – doesn’t go through walls as well

  • Less interference – typically smoother if you’re nearby

Why Does My Device Only See One Band?

Some devices, especially older ones or smart home products, are built to only support 2.4GHz. That’s normal — they were designed that way for compatibility and range.

Other times, a newer device should connect to 5GHz but doesn't. This could be caused by:

  • Being too far from the router

  • Router combining both bands under one name

  • Temporary device connection glitches

How to Fix Devices That Won’t Connect to 5GHz

If your device isn’t connecting to 5GHz, try these steps:

  1. Move closer to your router – 5GHz works best when nearby.

  2. Restart your device – this clears up temporary glitches.

  3. Forget and rejoin your Wi-Fi – go to your device’s Wi-Fi settings and reconnect.

  4. Check if your device supports 5GHz – not all devices do.

Still having trouble? It may help to split your Wi-Fi bands.

How to Split 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi Into Separate Networks

Some routers combine both Wi-Fi bands under one name (SSID) by default, which can make it hard to control what devices connect where. If you’d like to split them into two separate networks — one for 2.4GHz and one for 5GHz — here’s how to do it:

General Steps (May Vary by Router):

  1. Log into your router’s settings

    • This is usually done by typing 192.168.1.1 into a browser or using your router’s mobile app.

    • Check your router’s label, manual for router support for the exact method.

  2. Look for Wi-Fi or Wireless Settings

    • Common menu names: Wireless Settings, Wi-Fi Settings, or Network Settings

  3. Find settings for Band Steering or Smart Connect

    • You may see terms like:

      • Band Steering

      • Smart Connect

      • Unified SSID

    • If enabled, this setting combines both Wi-Fi bands into one name.

    • Disable this setting to split the bands.

  4. Name each network separately

    • You should now be able to assign different names to your 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks.

    • For example: Home_2.4 and Home_5G

  5. Save your settings and reconnect devices

    • Your devices will now see two separate network names, and you can choose the best one for each device.