URGENT UPDATE: The technology landscape is rapidly evolving, and the once-reliable 2.4 GHz router is now deemed obsolete as households face surging connectivity demands. With four out of five households in the US relying on home network routers, many are unknowingly clinging to outdated devices that struggle to meet modern needs.
Latest reports reveal that the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi band, which became popular with the 802.11b standard in 1999, offers speeds that are no match for today’s high-data environments. Originally capable of delivering up to 11 Mbps, enhancements over the years have barely pushed that limit to a typical maximum of 100 Mbps. In stark contrast, users connecting through 5 GHz routers can achieve speeds of up to 1 Gbps, while the new Wi-Fi 7 band promises an impressive 2 Gbps.
The urgency to upgrade is compounded by the increasing number of devices competing for bandwidth. The 2.4 GHz band is congested with interference from household items like baby monitors and microwaves, leaving many families frustrated with slow and unreliable connections. This is especially problematic in apartment buildings where signals can easily overlap, further complicating connectivity.
Experts recommend transitioning to dual-band routers, such as the TP-Link Archer GE230, which can accommodate both new high-speed devices and legacy systems. While the 2.4 GHz router can still serve certain functions—like maintaining connections for IoT devices—it cannot handle the demands of modern activities such as streaming, remote working, and gaming.
To illustrate, a family relying solely on a 2.4 GHz router for activities like video streaming or cloud backups is likely to encounter significant bottlenecks. Experts suggest repurposing these older routers to support less demanding tasks, such as extending Wi-Fi coverage for low-bandwidth IoT devices.
For readers considering whether to upgrade, it’s imperative to recognize that while the 2.4 GHz router may have been an internet staple for years, it is now a relic of the past. As technology continues to advance, households must adapt to avoid falling behind.
WHAT’S NEXT: Consumers are urged to reassess their home networking needs and consider upgrading to modern solutions that can handle the increasing bandwidth demands of today’s digital lifestyle. As we move further into July 2023, the importance of a robust and reliable internet connection cannot be overstated.
Don’t let your outdated technology hold you back—share this news with friends and family who might be relying on an ancient router!
