Before you start
- Access to your router settings
Method 1 Split the bands
Mesh systems often can’t split names; some offer an IoT network or temporarily disabling 5 GHz during setup.
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Step 1: Open wireless settings
Log in to your router and open Wireless settings.
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Step 2: Turn off band steering
Disable Smart Connect/Band Steering so 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz can have separate names.
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Step 3: Name 2.4 GHz
Give 2.4 GHz a name like “Home-2.4” and save.
Method 2 Make security compatible
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Step 1: Use transition mode
Set security to WPA2/WPA3-Personal (mixed). WPA3-only blocks older devices.
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Step 2: Avoid special characters
Some older devices struggle with unusual characters or long passwords. Use letters and numbers if needed.
Method 3 Use compatible radio settings
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Step 1: Mode
Set 2.4 GHz mode to 802.11b/g/n/ax mixed.
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Step 2: Channel
Use channel 1, 6 or 11 (some devices from other regions can’t use 12–13) and 20 MHz width.
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Step 3: Connect the device
Join “Home-2.4” on the device.
Troubleshooting
Device sees the network but won’t connect
Check the password, WPA2 compatibility and that MAC filtering isn’t blocking it.
Very old device (WEP only)
WEP is insecure and not supported by modern routers. Replace the device or use a wired connection.
Frequently asked questions
Will splitting bands slow down my other devices?
No. Modern devices can stay on 5 GHz; you just choose the network manually.
Why do smart devices use 2.4 GHz?
It reaches further through walls and the chips are cheaper and use less power.
Summary
Give 2.4 GHz its own name, use WPA2/WPA3 mixed security and channels 1, 6 or 11, and connect older or smart devices to that network.
