Dual-Band Wi-Fi Networks
Learn about Dual-Band Wi-Fi and 2.4GHz vs 5GHz networks
If you have the TELUS Advanced Wi-Fi Modem or the Wi-Fi Plus Extender, two TELUS Wi-Fi networks may be visible in your home, either ending in ‘2.4G’ or ‘5G’.
The TELUS Advanced Wi-Fi Modem now offers TELUS Smart Wi-Fi, which intelligently guides your devices between the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. With TELUS Smart Wi-Fi technology enabled your modem will be able to identify the ideal frequency for your devices at any given time or location in your home.
If you have a TELUS Advanced Wi-Fi modem and are only able to see one network in your home, this means TELUS Smart Wi-Fi is already enabled on your modem. If, however, you see two networks in your home you can now enable TELUS Smart Wi-Fi.
If you choose not to enable TELUS Smart Wi-Fi or are using the TELUS Wi-Fi Plus Extender, please find details and guidance around dual-band networks below.
The difference between 2.4GHz and 5GHz
‘2.4G’ and ‘5G’ correspond to different Wi-Fi frequencies: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Select the network that best meets your needs and/or is compatible with your devices.
The 5 GHz band will allow you to achieve higher throughput rates to an individual device. However, the frequencies in this band can’t travel as far as the 2.4 GHz band. Hence, as a device moves further away from the modem, it may be advantageous to switch from 5 GHz to 2.4 GHz. Each network has its advantages and disadvantages.
| 2.4GHz | 5GHz | |
| Coverage | Covers a larger area and has further range than 5GHz | Covers a smaller area in your home and has less range than 2.4GHz |
| Interference | More susceptible to interference from microwaves, cordless phones, baby monitors, and neighbours’ Wi-Fi. | Less susceptible to interference than 2.4GHz. Ideal for apartments with interference from neighbours’ Wi-Fi. |
| Type of usage | Email, instant messaging, web browsing | Streaming video, video games |
Which network should I use?
- If you are connected to the Advanced Wi-Fi Modem or Extender from a close distance, 5GHz is the better choice
- At farther distances, connect to the 2.4GHz network
- If you are having issues with one network, try connecting to the other one. You can switch between the two networks at any time
Do all devices have to use the same network?
Some devices can be connected to the 2.4GHz network while other devices connect to the 5GHz network at the same time without one interrupting another. For example, you can connect your phone to the 2.4GHz network while your computer stays connected to 5GHz.
What if I don’t see the 5GHz network on my device?
Some devices, especially older ones, are not compatible with 5GHz networks. Therefore, you will not see the 5GHz network and will only be able to connect to the 2.4GHz network.
What is the Wi-Fi password for each network?
The default password is the same for both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks, and can be found on the side of your modem. If you want to customize your Wi-Fi password, you will need to change the password for each network separately.