If you are experimenting with the array of features of your wireless network, you may wonder how to turn off 5GHz on a router. The best routers, after all, allow access to multiple wireless bands and boast robust settings pages. Why would you turn off 5GHz in the first place and how would you do it? Keep reading to find out.
Key Takeaways_
- Turning off the 5.0 GHz band of your wireless router can help improve network security and your wireless range.
- Start by accessing the router’s admin panel or dedicated settings page, which is typically done by entering the public IP address into a browser address bar or via mobile device.
- Find a generalized wireless options page, advanced settings page, or a page for dual-band settings and check the box for disabling the 5.0 GHz band.
Why Turn Off 5GHz on a Router?
The main reason is to increase the wireless range and for overall network security. Generally speaking, the 5GHz wireless band is much faster than 2.4GHz, but that speed comes at a cost as the range is slightly decreased. Additionally, the 5GHz band may be more prone to hackers and wireless thieves. If you start getting hop-ons to your network, you’ll be looking to learn how to close a router port, which is never fun.
STAT: The 6 GHz band, introduced with the new WiFi 6E standard, provides the least coverage but transmits data at the fastest speeds of the three frequencies. (source)
How to Disable 5GHz on a Router
This process varies depending on the make and model of your router, but it is not too difficult, akin to learning how to disable DHCP on a router. Also, this process works if you want to learn how to 2.4GHz on a router as well. With that said, if you want to learn more networking tips, we recommend reading how to set up 5GHz on a router and changing the router’s IP address.
insider tip
The 2.4GHz band is preferred for devices that only sporadically connect to the Internet, such as smart home appliances.
STEP 1 Ensure That Your Network is Operating Properly
- With your router plugged into your modem via an Ethernet cable, make sure your network is working properly. The modem should be transmitting a strong Internet connection and the router should be wirelessly transmitting this signal to all connected devices.
STEP 2 Navigate to Your Router Settings
- The place to disable wireless bands will be in your admin panel or your dedicated settings page. However, the process to access this page varies depending on your router, as each manufacturer tends to feature different processes here. Check the instructions for specific information.
- In most cases, you can access your admin panel or settings page by entering your router’s public IP address to the address bar of a web browser. Otherwise, open up dedicated firmware software or use a mobile app provided by the manufacturer.
STEP 4 Disable the 5Ghz Band
- Once you have accessed the settings page, look for wireless settings or “dual-band” settings. Click on whichever and click off the 5GHz band. Save your changes before exiting the admin panel. You may also have to restart the router for the changes to be set.
