Summary
At home or in the office, your Internet connection tends to slow down when other users are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. On the other hand, bandwidth problems can also arise when your computer is placed too far from your router, especially if you live between thick walls.
In any case, to offer a more reliable connection, it is advisable to use a different frequency. In general, you have the choice between two bands: 2,4GHz and 5GHz.
Automatically, your Mac should select the best option. Still, if you want to take control and force the switch to 5GHz, then here's how.
The difference between 2,4GHz and 5GHz
Despite their differences, these frequencies complement each other. The 2,4 GHz band is slightly slower, but its signal is easier to pass through walls, while the 5 GHz is faster and less crowded.
To find out which band your Mac is connected to, press and hold Option down and click thewi-fi icon at the top right of your screen.
In the drop-down menu, you will have more information than it normally displays. Under Preferred network, take a look at the option Canal to find out what frequency your computer is running on.
Configure 5GHz on your Mac
First of all, remember to check that your router is compatible with dual-band connections. Most do, but a quick look at your model's specs will help you be sure.
In order for your Mac to be linked to the 5GHz channel rather than the 2,4GHz, you will need to separate the bands and give them a different name. To do this :
- Run a search on your Mac.
- Search AirPort Utility, then open it.
- Select your terminal.
- Click on Edit.
- Let's go to Wireless, And then Wireless access option.
- Change network name, end with Save.
Then, for this new band to be automatically chosen by your macOS, go to your System Preferences and Network. In the lower right corner, click on the option Advanced.
You'll then see the networks your Mac searches for when it tries to connect to Wi-Fi, listed in sequential order. To force your computer to connect to a 5GHz band, simply press and hold the network of your choice and drag it to the top of the list.
Now when you turn on your Mac, it should directly adopt the 5GHz network.
