Are you tired of your WiFi connection dropping or slowing down? The 5GHz band may be your solution. In this quick guide, I’ll explain how you can force your Windows 11 computer to use the 5GHz WiFi band, which is typically faster and less congested than the older 2.4GHz band. By the end of this article, you’ll be surfing the web at lightning speeds.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Force 5GHz WiFi on Windows 11
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to understand what we’re trying to achieve. By forcing your computer to connect to the 5GHz band, you’re ensuring a faster and more stable internet connection. Let’s get started.
Step 1: Open Network Settings
Open the ‘Network & Internet’ settings on your Windows 11 computer.
This can be done by clicking on the WiFi icon in the taskbar and then selecting ‘Network & Internet settings’. This will take you to the area where you can manage all your network connections.
Step 2: Go to WiFi Properties
Find your WiFi connection and click on ‘Properties’.
In the ‘Network & Internet’ settings, you’ll see a list of available networks. Click on your connected network to open its properties. This is where you can change several settings related to your WiFi connection.
Step 3: Change the Band to 5GHz
Under the ‘Properties’ section, change the ‘Preferred Band’ setting to ‘Prefer 5GHz band’.
You may need to scroll down to find this option. Changing this setting will prioritize the 5GHz band when connecting to the WiFi network.
Step 4: Save Changes
Save your changes and reconnect to your WiFi network.
After changing the ‘Preferred Band’ setting, you’ll need to disconnect and reconnect to the WiFi network for the changes to take effect.
After completing these steps, your Windows 11 computer should now be using the 5GHz WiFi band. You should notice an immediate improvement in your internet speed and connection stability.
Tips for Optimizing Your 5GHz WiFi Connection on Windows 11
- Make sure your router supports the 5GHz band and that it’s enabled.
- Place your router in a central location to ensure a strong 5GHz signal throughout your home.
- Keep your router away from other electronic devices that could cause interference.
- Update your network adapter drivers to ensure they support the 5GHz band.
- Regularly reboot your router to maintain a strong and stable connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my router supports 5GHz?
Check the specifications of your router model online or look for the 5GHz label on the router itself.
Can all devices connect to the 5GHz band?
Not all devices support the 5GHz band. Check the device’s specifications to see if it’s compatible.
How much faster is 5GHz compared to 2.4GHz?
The 5GHz band can be significantly faster than the 2.4GHz band, especially in areas with a lot of wireless interference.
Will forcing 5GHz affect my other devices?
It may, as some devices may only be able to connect to the 2.4GHz band. Ensure compatibility before making changes.
Can I switch back to 2.4GHz if needed?
Yes, you can always revert your settings or set the ‘Preferred Band’ to ‘No Preference’ to allow automatic selection.
Summary
- Open ‘Network & Internet’ settings.
- Click on your WiFi network’s ‘Properties’.
- Change the ‘Preferred Band’ to ‘Prefer 5GHz band’.
- Save changes and reconnect to the network.
Conclusion
Forcing your Windows 11 computer to use the 5GHz WiFi band is a simple process that can make a world of difference in your internet experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should have a faster and more reliable connection, allowing you to stream, game, and browse without the usual headaches. Remember, not all devices support 5GHz, so it’s important to check compatibility before making any changes. Additionally, keep in mind that while 5GHz offers many advantages, it may not always be the best choice depending on your situation, such as longer distances from the router where 2.4GHz may have better range.
Now that you know how to force 5GHz WiFi on Windows 11, go ahead and give it a try. You might just be amazed at how much smoother your online activities become. And, if you’re ever in doubt, refer back to this guide or reach out to a tech-savvy friend. Happy browsing!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.