Most smart home devices are designed to operate exclusively on the 2.4GHz WiFi frequency. While 2.4GHz transmits data at slower speeds compared to the faster 5GHz band, it has a much longer range and better wall penetration. This makes it more reliable for devices that need a constant connection from different parts of your home — like smart plugs, bulbs, or sensors.
Why Connection Issues Happen with Dual-Band Routers
Modern routers often support dual-band frequencies, meaning they broadcast both 2.4GHz and 5GHz signals simultaneously. The 5GHz band is faster and often prioritized by your router. This can cause an issue: your phone or tablet may connect to the 5GHz band, while your smart device is trying to connect over 2.4GHz—resulting in a failed pairing.
How to Ensure a Successful Connection
To successfully link your smart home device, both your phone and the smart device must be connected to the same 2.4GHz network during setup. Here’s how to make that happen.