For several years, most of the routers that we have at home offer two types of network: the fastest and the slowest. These two networks have the same name , so how can we know which of the two we are connected to?
Most routers, for several years, emit the network signal in two channels: a 2.4GHz channel and a 5GHz channel. Both have advantages and disadvantages. The 2.4 channel covers much more area, albeit at a noticeably slower speed . If we are more than 8 or 10 meters from the router (depending on the model, installation, walls, etc.) we will only be able to access the 2.4 signal. If we are closer to the router we will have access to the 5GHz network, which is notably faster.
Without going into more details, we can say that the 2.4GHz network, with a theoretical maximum speed of 300 Mbps, usually reaches maximums of 100 Mbps . Meanwhile, 5GHz, with a theoretical maximum of 1.7 Gbps, usually reaches about 850 Mbps.
How to know which network we are connected to
Knowing if our Mac is connected to one or another network , as long as they have the same name, is very simple. We do so:
- We hold down the Option key (⌥).
- We click on the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar.
- In the Channelsection we check if, in parentheses, 5GHz or 2.4GHz appears.
Depending on whether one or the other appears, we will know to which network our Mac is connected. Having seen this, can we ask the computer to connect to the 5GHz network? Yes. In addition, we can also do it on our iPhone or iPad .
The process is very simple. First, we must get close enough to the router so that our device reaches the 5GHz network. Then, on our Mac we click on the Wi-Fi icon and choose Deactivate Wi-Fi , then press it again and choose Activate Wi-Fi . On our iPhone or iPad we simply activate and deactivate Airplane Mode .
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With these simple steps, and since our devices always choose to connect to the “best” network available, we will automatically be connected to the 5GHz network. Ideal to see our Applesfera Life
