How to Change Wi-Fi Channel?
Your Wi-Fi has multiple channels for different frequencies to transmit your data. If the channel you are using is over occupied, which means used by your neighbors and there are too many routers around, you will experience slow speed and unstable connection.
In this case, you should change your Wi-Fi channel to the best one. In this article, we will explain how to change channel on router. We will take you through the step-by-step process and explain everything you should know.
What is Wi-Fi Channel?
A Wi-Fi channel defines a frequency range of radio waves used for data transmission. For instance, a channel of 2.4GHz could have a frequency width of 20MHz. If it is selected for Wi-Fi transmission, it will use that frequency range to communicate with your devices and transmit data.
There are multiple frequency channels on a frequency band. For instance, there are 14 channels dedicated to the 2.4GHz band. They have a specific frequency bandwidth, and you can select any of them. Similarly, the 5GHz band has 34 channels, and the 6GHz band has 59 channels.
Wi-Fi channels play an important role in defining the speed and stability of the network. If the routers of your neighbors are using the same Wi-Fi channel, the channel will become overcrowded, and you will experience issues.
How to Change Wi-Fi Channel?
Most Wi-Fi routers are programmed to select the optimal Wi-Fi channel automatically. However, you can also change a Wi-Fi channel manually.
You can select the channel of any Wi-Fi band as well as the channel width. It depends on your preference. Here are the simple steps you need to follow.
- Open your web browser. Type the IP address of your router. It is mentioned at the back of the router.
- Enter the login credentials. By default, the username and password are “admin”.
- You will see multiple options on the left, and every router has a different interface. Go to the Wireless section. Look for the channel option in the settings.
- It is usually set to “Auto.” Click it and select any channel you want.
- You can also select the channel for each width and then select the channel you want.
2.4 GHz vs 5 GHz vs 6GHz: Which are the Best Wi-Fi Channels for them?
Depending on the Wi-Fi generation, you will have options to select the frequency band. If you are using Wi-Fi 5 or Wi-Fi 6, you will have two bands, 2.4GHz and 5GHz. Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 offer three bands: 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz.
All these bands offer distinct performances. 2.4GHz is the slowest band; however, its range is way more than others. It is the most commonly used Wi-Fi band for common household and office use. The issue with this band is that it is susceptible to interference. Even devices like microwave ovens and security cameras can disturb its performance.
5GHz offers better speed than 2.4GHz, but its range is lower. It is preferred for tasks that require a high data rate, such as video streaming. 6GHz is the fastest, and it has the shortest range. It prevents interference and offers blazing speed.
Once you select the right frequency band, you need to select channels. You have to pick the least crowded channel for optimal performance.
2.4GHz has 14 channels. But keep in mind not all channels in a frequency band are useful. For instance, out of 14 channels in the 2.4GHz band, only three channels, 1, 6, and 11 are non-overlapping. Similarly, there are 24 non-overlapping channels in the 5GHz band.
Based on your tasks, select the frequency band. Then, select the right non-overlapping channel. If any channel is offering mediocre performance, you can switch to others.
Bonus Tip: Dual-bands Wi-Fi Security Camera Recommendation
If you are looking for reliable dual-band Wi-Fi security cameras, here are a couple of recommendations.
Wi-Fi 6 Battery Powered Security Camera - Argus 4 Pro
Argus 4 Pro is a Wi-Fi 6 battery-powered security camera. It has dual bands, 2.4GHz and 5GHz. You can select one for optimal performance. It offers a smooth 4K live preview experience due to low latency and high speed.
It’s a dual-lens security camera that offers a 180⁰ wide view. It captures intricate details and more information in 4K. It works on Reolink ColorX technology, so it offers all-day color vision. It is completely wireless, and you only need to recharge it when needed, or you can connect it to a solar panel.
4k 180° Wire-free Color Night Vision Camera
4K UHD 180° Blindspot-free View; Color Vision Day and Night; 30% More Battery Life; Dual-band Wi-Fi 6; Smart detection.
Wi-Fi 6 DC Power Security Camera - RLC 811WA
This one is a DC-powered Wi-Fi security camera. It is ideal for continuous performance, and you only need to connect its adapter to a nearby wall outlet. It has dual Wi-Fi bands for lag-free 4K live streaming and a stable connection. You can enjoy faster speed at 5GHz, and if your network is too large, you can switch to 2.4GHz.
It’s a 4K security camera with 5X optical zoom. Thus, you can get more intricate details with it. It offers dual night vision modes for colored and black-and-white videos. Other than that, you get smart detection, real-time alerts, and tons of advanced features.
4K WiFi 6 Security Camera with Night Vision
4K 8MP Ultra HD, Dual-Band WiFi 6, Color Night Vision, 5X Zoom, Smart Detection, Two-Way Audio, Built-in Siren.
FAQs
1. Does changing channel improve Wi-Fi?
Yes, it can improve Wi-Fi speed and stability. You have to select a less crowded channel of any band you prefer. All bands offer distinct performances based on their frequency.
2. How do I know what channel my Wi-Fi is on?
You can check it through your web browser. Enter the IP address and enter credentials to log in. Now, navigate to the Wireless section and check settings. You will see the details of bands, channels, and widths.
3. How to change router from 5 to 2.4?
You can change the router from 5GHz band to 2.4GHz from the settings. Follow the steps we have mentioned and select the band and channel you want
Conclusion
You should be aware of how to change Wi-Fi channels because it helps in optimizing the speed and stability of the connection. We have shared the step-by-step to select the desired Wi-Fi band, channel width, and channel. You can pick the least crowded channel in your area to enjoy fast and stable connectivity.
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