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How To Connect A Laptop To A 5GHz Wi-Fi Network

Wi-Fi and internet speeds are always being upgraded! With each year, there are new developments and improvements. Nowadays, people are using 5GHz Wi-Fi connections for more speed and efficiency. So, how can you connect your laptop to 5GHz networks?

You can connect your laptop to a 5GHz network for a faster/more stable signal if both the laptop and wireless router support 5GHz Wi-Fi (or by using a 5GHz Wi-Fi adapter). If you want your laptop to connect to the 5GHz network before any other, you can configure that in your settings.

Although there are a lot of numbers, this isn’t rocket science. Connecting your laptop to 5GHz networks is a fairly straightforward process. So, what even is 5GHz Wi-Fi, and how do you connect your computer to it?

What Is 5GHz Wi-Fi?

Partial view of businessman holding wire

Generally, most modern routers are dual-band devices. Dual-band essentially means your router is producing two types of Wi-Fi signals: 2.4GHz and 5GHz. Each type of connection has different advantages and disadvantages.

2.4GHz Speeds: Travel farther, penetrate solid objects and walls, are more vulnerable to interference from microwaves and other electronics.

5GHz Speeds: High transfer speeds, are less vulnerable, have shorter range, have a more challenging time penetrating solid objects and walls.

As you can see, each type of connection has its best use cases. Connecting to a 5GHz Wi-Fi connection works best when you’re close to the router and have nothing obstructing your range.

2.4GHz speeds travel farther and work well in large houses. Additionally, 2.4GHz rates are helpful for devices like robot vacuums and other wireless products. But, if you want higher internet speeds, how can you connect your computer to 5GHz networks?

How Can I Connect My Laptop to 5GHz Wi-Fi?

Typically, most laptops will automatically connect to 2.4GHz networks. Some laptops connect to 2.4GHz networks because they’re not compatible with 5GHz, or they haven’t set up their computer for 5GHz.

To connect to 5GHz networks and receive the benefits, you’ll need to manually enable the feature through the settings of your laptop. This process is relatively straightforward and easy to do.

Laptops that use Windows operating systems may experience slow Wi-Fi speed due to 2.4GHz connections. Here’s how to force your Windows laptop to connect to a 5GHz network:

  • Go to Device Manager on your laptop
  • Locate your Wi-Fi device under Network Devices
  • In the Advanced tab, select Preferred Band and set it to 5

Setting up your laptop this way ensures your computer is using automatic band steering to 5GHz, providing a faster and smoother Wi-Fi experience. If you don’t see these options, your laptop or router may not be compatible with 5GHz. Luckily, you can find USB Wi-Fi adapters (on Amazon) that can solve this issue.

Make Sure Your Wi-Fi Router Has Dual Band Options

Nowadays, modern routers have dual-band options. Dual-band essentially means your router is producing two types of Wi-Fi signals: 2.4GHz and 5GHz. Both of these connection types have advantages, disadvantages, and best use scenarios.

The former is the most common connection type and provides stable connections over long distances. 5ghz can be obstructed by walls and other objects, but it’s much faster than its counterpart.

How to Check If Your Router Has Dual Band Options

Although many routers have dual-band options, it’s essential to verify and be sure. 5GHz connections allow for better speeds and connections. It can be advantageous for some consumers to use 5GHz.

Here’s how you can determine whether or not your router has dual-band capabilities:

  • Check online
  • Read your router’s manual
  • Log in to the router’s settings
  • Call your internet provider

If your router has dual-band capabilities, they may be combined under one network name (SSID). If these connections are combined, you won’t be able to connect your computer to 5GHz.

You should consider splitting these two connections and renaming them accordingly. Doing so will help you stay organized and, more importantly, grant you access to 5GHz speeds.

How To Check If Your Laptop Is Compatible

Unfortunately, not all laptops and devices can connect to 5GHz networks. You’ll first need to determine whether or not your device is compatible with 5GHz networks. You can find your router’s specifications and view your laptop’s settings to determine whether or not it’s compatible with 5GHz connections.

Once you’ve determined whether or not your personal computer is compatible, you can easily set up 5GHz connections. The process will differ from Windows and Apple systems.

Alternatively, if your device isn’t compatible with 5GHz speeds, you can still purchase USB Wi-Fi adapters. Ensure these products are compatible with your computer or laptop before purchasing to avoid any unnecessary headaches down the line.

Can My Laptop Connect to 5GHz While It Is Connected to 2.4GHz?

Unfortunately, no, you can’t be connected to both 5GHz and 2.4GHz networks at the same time. If your personal computer isn’t compatible with 5GHz networks, you can use third-party accessories as potential solutions.

Best USB Wi-Fi Adapters

Silver laptop with USB modem plugged in with an antenna

Some laptops and personal computers aren’t compatible with 5GHz networks and need special adapters. Luckily, these devices can be incredibly affordable and convenient.

USB Wi-Fi adapters allow your device to connect to higher speeds and connections. Be sure to check if your device is compatible before purchasing to avoid any unnecessary headaches down the line.

For those looking for the best overall product, we recommend the T9UH (on Amazon). Although this Wi-Fi adapter doesn’t have the best 2.4GHz speeds, it’s one of the best products on the market.

The T9UH delivers high rates, consistent performance, and accessibility – all for under $100. For those reasons, the T9UH is our overall recommendation for USB Wi-Fi adapters.

For Windows users, we recommend the AX1800 (on Amazon). This device is sleek and easily portable. However, you won’t get the fastest and most cutting-edge speeds from this device. That doesn’t stop it from being competitively priced and efficient.

Foktech USB Wi-Fi Adapter AC1200

If you’re looking for something budget-friendly and ready to go, we recommend the AC1200 (on Amazon). For under $20, you can upgrade your internet.

However, you’re definitely getting what you pay for. This device won’t access the fastest speeds and connections but can be worth the investment for some. The AC1200 is compatible with both Windows and Apple operating systems.

How to Connect a Mac Laptop to 5ghz

If you aren’t a Windows user, don’t fret. Mac laptops can also connect to 5GHz routers. Before you begin, ensure 5GHz is enabled on your router. Otherwise, you won’t have the option to connect to a 5GHz network.

1. Open your System Settings and choose the Network option.

2. Find the Advanced option in the lower right corner and select this option.

3. You’ll see all the lists of networks your Mac looks for when trying to connect to WiiFi. These options are in sequential order, so your preferred network is at the top.

4. To force your Mac to use a 5ghz network, click and hold the network name and drag it to the top of the list.

Following these steps should enable your Macintosh laptop to connect to 5GHz networks and search for them before other networks. If this doesn’t work, you may have a problem with your router, laptop, or internet connection.