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You will encounter the term “band steering” in relation to Wi-Fi networks and their potential optimization. The concept is easy to understand.
Band steering: Explained simply
Band steering significantly increases data rates in a network and is supported by numerous modern Wi-Fi repeaters and routers.
- With band steering, the router can decide for itself whether a device uses the 5 or 2.4 gigahertz band. This allows significantly higher data rates to be achieved than with just one band.
- The router continuously checks which band is currently less used and can thus distribute the load more effectively. This is usually noticeable immediately when end devices are switched to the 5-gigahertz band.
- The router also takes into account the distance and position of the end device. More distant devices are connected to the 2.4 gigahertz band, for example, to ensure a stable Wi-Fi connection.
- The technical specifications of the end device are also important. If your smart plugs only support 2.4 GHz, for example, this connection will be automatically optimized.
- The advantages of band steering quickly become apparent, even with many devices and a large living space. While 2.4 gigahertz networks have better range, 5 gigahertz networks are faster. Your router can decide which network is better at any given time, depending on your requirements.
- Tip: Sometimes it can be worthwhile to forego band steering and assign devices to a fixed 2.4 or 5 gigahertz band. This is a good option, for example, if you have a specific number of users for whom band steering is not really worthwhile.
These are the requirements
To use band steering, you need a dual-band Wi-Fi router that supports 2.4 and 5 gigahertz frequency bands.
- Both networks must have the same name (SSID). This is usually the case if your Wi-Fi device is still in its factory default state. Otherwise, you will need to set this manually.
- Furthermore, it is important that many routers support modern and specific Wi-Fi standards such as 802.11k and 802.11v. These enable the connection to be optimized.
- Routers with the 802.11r standard enable seamless connection switching thanks to fast roaming technology. This allows devices to connect to the router without interruption.
- Please refer to the user manual or help portal of the respective manufacturer for details on how to enable band steering. If you use devices from a provider such as Telekom or 1&1, the hotline can also help you.
- Important: If you use repeaters or a mesh system, these must also be dual-band capable.
Band steering not working: Troubleshooting
The band steering function may not work properly. The following solutions may help:
- As already mentioned, the router, repeater, and end devices must be compatible with the function. Older devices in particular are often not suitable, which can prevent the connection from being established.
- In some cases, connection interruptions may occur when devices switch between bands. In this case, you only need to wait a moment or restart the connection.
- Make sure that the 2.4 and 5 gigahertz networks have exactly the same SSID. If the network names are different, the function cannot be used.
- If the above solutions do not help, simply restart your Wi-Fi router. This is a useful solution for a wide range of network problems.
