Are you having trouble connecting your smart devices to your home network? You’re not alone. Many users face this issue when setting up their smart appliances, and it can be frustrating. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this problem and provide some possible solutions to help you connect your 2.4GHz devices successfully.
The Problem with Mesh Systems
Most mesh systems, including advanced ones like Orbi, are designed to have a single SSID for both the 2.4GHz and 5.0GHz bands. The issue arises because almost all smart devices, such as locks, video cameras, doorbells, thermostats, security systems, and lights, are designed to work exclusively on the 2.4GHz band. During the setup process, your phone needs to be connected to the same band and SSID for the app to recognize the device. However, smartphones always prefer the 5GHz band when it’s available, and there is no way to force them to connect to the 2.4GHz band.
Possible Solutions
1. Distance from the Router
One solution is to physically move away from the router until your phone can no longer connect to the 5GHz band. Since the 2.4GHz band has a greater range, your phone will switch to it. However, this method may not work if you need to be within Bluetooth range or scan a QR code during the setup process.
2. Adjust the Radio Strength
Another option is to adjust the radio strength of the 5GHz band. By reducing the broadcast strength, you give the 2.4GHz band a better chance of being the preferred choice for your phone. To do this, access the desktop portal of your router by typing “192.168.1.1” in your browser’s address bar. Navigate to the Advanced Settings tab, then Advanced Setup, and finally Wireless Settings. Look for the Transmit Power Control value and change it from 100% to 25%. Please note that even at 25% power, some routers can still reach a considerable distance, so this method may not solve your problem entirely.
3. Disable AX Functionality
If the previous solutions didn’t work, you can try disabling the AX functionality (Wi-Fi 6 features) if your router supports it. Leave the 5GHz band set to 25% power and go to the regular Setup link (still on the Advanced Settings tab). Choose Wireless Setup and uncheck the boxes below “Enable AX – This Wi-Fi Mode Will Enable AX Features.” Apply the changes and wait for the router to reset. Then try connecting your phone to the 2.4GHz band again.
If none of these solutions work, unfortunately, there is no further level of control available. You cannot turn off the 5GHz radio, split the networks with different names, or force devices onto the 2.4GHz band.
Upgrading to Orbi 960 Series
In such cases, Netgear recommends upgrading to the Orbi 960 series. These higher-end routers offer features that allow you to force devices onto the 2.4GHz band. Although this solution might solve your problem, it comes at a higher cost. Upgrading to the 960 series can range from a $700 to $1000 investment, depending on your current router’s model. This price tag may not be feasible or practical for many users.
Netgear claims that this design limitation is intentional and that Orbi systems are meant to be simple to set up and “just work.” However, this oversight neglects the fact that mesh networks are popular among users with multiple smart devices who need seamless connectivity throughout their homes. It is frustrating to spend a significant amount of money to connect devices that should work seamlessly with more affordable equipment.
Conclusion
Connecting 2.4GHz devices to mesh systems like Orbi can be challenging due to the design limitations of these systems. While there are some potential workarounds, they may not always provide a satisfactory solution. If you find yourself unable to connect your smart devices to your current router, upgrading to a higher-end model like the Orbi 960 series may be the only option. However, it’s essential to consider the cost implications before making such a significant investment.
FAQs
Q: Can I connect my 2.4GHz smart devices to a mesh system like Orbi?
A: Yes, you can connect 2.4GHz devices to a mesh system. However, due to the design limitations of many mesh systems, it can be challenging to do so seamlessly.
Q: Why do smartphones prefer the 5GHz band?
A: Smartphones typically prefer the 5GHz band because it offers faster speeds. However, this can pose a problem when trying to connect 2.4GHz devices to the same network.
Q: Is there a way to force smartphones to connect to the 2.4GHz band?
A: Unfortunately, there is no direct way to force smartphones to connect to the 2.4GHz band if the 5GHz band is available. This can make it difficult to set up 2.4GHz smart devices on a mesh network.
Q: Should I consider upgrading to the Orbi 960 series?
A: Upgrading to the Orbi 960 series can solve the problem of connecting 2.4GHz devices. However, it is a costly solution and may not be practical for everyone.
Q: Are there any other mesh systems that offer better support for 2.4GHz devices?
A: While the issue is prevalent among many mesh systems, it’s worth checking with manufacturers to see if there are any models that offer better support for 2.4GHz devices.
Note: This article is based on user experiences and research and does not necessarily reflect the official stance of Netgear or other manufacturers.