The evolution
Currently, wifi uses the 2.4 GHz frequency band, but this is heavily used (by Bluetooth too) and is reaching the end of its capacity.
A new standard has arrived on the market: 5 GHz (or Wifi AC).
The 5 GHz band offers more channels and therefore more free space than the 2.4 GHz band (19 channels versus 13).
What’s more, it’s rarely used, which means less interference.
What it changes
Range is still around 200-300 meters, but 5GHz Wifi eliminates dead zones while improving signal strength and reliability by concentrating and directing signals.
It also enables more devices to be connected to the network simultaneously.
Another advantage: 5GHz Wifi extends the battery life of mobile devices, since it transmits more data in less time.
Access points transmitting at 5 GHz are usually dual-band, i.e. they also transmit at 2.4 GHz, to ensure compatibility with terminals using older Wifi B, G or N standards. Manufacturers haven’t waited for this to happen, and for some months now have been offering equipment that transmits in 5GHz, such as Zyxel’s NWA5123-NI: equipped with two radio modules (i.e. dual-band), it can simultaneously transmit radio signals in 2.4 and 5 GHz.
Its dual-radio support means you can operate 2 WiFi networks in parallel.
