The type of Wi-Fi router that is throttling internet speed.

Many families now own Wi-Fi routers, but many people are still not fully aware of the importance of this device.

While we're often eager to upgrade our laptops or smartphones, routers are often overlooked, significantly impacting users' internet access, even with high-speed connections. This is largely due to outdated routers, particularly the 2.4 GHz models that originated in the early days of home networking and are becoming obsolete.

Older Wi-Fi router models typically only operate on a single frequency band.

PHOTO: The Strategist

The 2.4 GHz frequency band was first widely used in 1999 with the 802.11b standard, allowing a maximum data transmission speed of 11 Mbps. This speed was improved to 54 Mbps with the 802.11g standard many years later.

Later versions further improved speeds, but in reality, 2.4 GHz routers only achieve a maximum speed of around 100 Mbps. Meanwhile, 5 GHz Wi-Fi routers can reach speeds up to 1 Gbps, and Wi-Fi 7 6 GHz, licensed in the US in 2020, can reach speeds of 2 Gbps.

The problem with 2.4 Hz routers.

Once essential, 2.4 GHz routers have now revealed many limitations, especially in the context of increasing data usage demands. Low data transmission speeds and congestion caused by multiple devices using the 2.4 GHz band are major problems. Devices such as baby monitors, security cameras, and microwave ovens can interfere with the signal, reducing connection performance, particularly in apartment buildings.

Modern routers support dual-band Wi-Fi, enabling connectivity with both newer and older generations.

PHOTO: TL

Even though the 2.4 GHz band offers better coverage and penetrates walls more effectively, relying solely on it for a modern network isn't feasible. Instead of eliminating it entirely, users should consider a dual-band router to connect older devices while still working with modern devices at significantly better speeds.

However, before deciding to discard an old 2.4 GHz router, users can repurpose it for IoT devices or as a Wi-Fi extender. Forget about using a 2.4 GHz router as a central hub for a modern home, as it will quickly become overloaded with tasks like streaming video or gaming.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/loai-router-wi-fi-dang-kim-ham-toc-do-internet-185251215005959275.htm