5GHz performance varies a lot depending on conditions.
5GHz performance varies a lot depending on conditions.
Hey everyone, I'm facing some problems with my speed when using a 5GHz Wi-Fi connection with my Asus RT-AC68P router. I have a 300Mbps connection, but the issue is that while 2.4GHz works well and is stable (though it had its own issues), 5GHz causes significant drops in speed. Usually, I get between 150-300MBs depending on where I am in the house. However, during tests with a Galaxy S9+ and a Windows laptop, the speed would drop to around 20Mbps or less, sometimes ending the test completely at about 0.7Mbps. The speed remains consistent with Comcast at 12Mbps.
At first, I thought it was my phone, but other devices showed similar problems. Then I suspected the router, assuming it couldn't handle our usage anymore. After replacing it last night with a Netgear Nighthawk X4S, the issue persisted. Sometimes the 5GHz connection is fast and then suddenly slows down unpredictably, only to recover later. I initially considered my own modem or Comcast, but during those times, 2.4GHz stayed steady at about 80-100Mbps with no changes.
My guess now is interference is the cause. I have Directv using the 5GHz band for its video bridge, which operates on a different channel. Even though I wasn’t watching TV, the network was still visible in my Wi-Fi analytics app. There’s also another 5GHz network from a neighbor on a separate channel, which is weak at my location.
It might be a nearby person operating on a different frequency; testing other channels can help identify interference. Many systems rely on freely available radio bands, so a WiFi scan will detect only those that support Wi-Fi, not devices using unique protocols or transmitting video signals.
Occasionally hidden elements can disrupt performance, making it smarter to choose a network that overlaps instead of relying solely on 5GHz signals.
Thanks again everyone, following your recommendations helped improve stability. Things are running well now. I’m using a Wi-Fi analysis app on my phone and a 5GHz network gives ample space for all devices. It’s likely due to its limited coverage area; I probably have around 4-2 devices connected—my own router and a Directv Wireless Video Bridge. The 2.4GHz band is problematic because it has many overlapping networks, with some set to a constant 40Mhz on channel 6, which interferes with most connections. This causes drops from over 100 Mbps to about 30 Mbps each evening. Living in a residential area means everyone uses Wi-Fi, so it’s just the usual setup. If you have any tips or suggestions, I’d appreciate hearing them.
Set up whatever is possible. Explore power line adapters and moca adapters. Devices such as TVs, set-top boxes, and desktop PCs can be connected via wiring. This at least reduces reliance on your wireless setup. Upgrade to more 5 Ghz equipment. Laptops are generally upgradeable—either through internal cards or USB ports. Desktops also support media bridges, which convert non-wireless gear into wireless-compatible devices, allowing you to enhance TVs and set-top boxes. Beyond that, there’s limited room for further improvements.