The Industrial Internet of Things, or IIoT for short, is a vast network of wireless sensors and devices continuously creating and sharing data. Each component in the system collects, analyzes, and transmits that data to improve the efficiency and productivity of the environment around it.
The Major Advantages and Disadvantages of 2.4 and 5 GHz WiFi
- 2.4 GHz WiFi supports a greater distance than its 5 GHz counterpart, so it connects devices farther away from the WiFi antenna.
- 2.5 GHz WiFi penetrates obstacles like walls better than 5 GHz WiFi.
- 2.4 GHz may be subject to more interference than its 5 GHz counterpart. Because 2.4 GHz WiFi supports more devices and connects to more devices simultaneously, the frequency can quickly get “crowded.”
- 5 GHz WiFi is not only typically faster than 2.4 GHz connections, but it can handle more data at the same time.
According to one recent study, the global Industrial IoT market will be worth approximately $276 billion in 2025. That is possible thanks to the inherently simple technology connecting all those devices and sensors: WiFi.
Rapidly deployable 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz WiFi technology has allowed companies to extend wireless networking in areas where traditional wiring is too expensive or impossible to achieve. When deploying industrial IoT networking equipment such as routers, access points, and WiFi antennas, there are options: hardware that operates only in the 2.4 GHz range, hardware that supports the broader 5 GHz standard, and dual-band hardware that accommodates both.
Which is better, and which one is best for a network? Answering questions like those requires keeping a few key things in mind.
WiFi Frequencies
It’s common knowledge that WiFi offers wireless connectivity by design. However, it was formally developed in 1997 when the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) created the IEEE 802.11 standard. It is the basis for WiFi product design. The latest version is IEEE 802.11be, also known as WiFi 8. The IEEE 802.11 WiFi standard addresses two main parameters. The first one is speed – the data transmission rate. The second parameter is frequency – the radio frequency, either 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz, on which the data is carried. (Newer standards like WiFi 8 extend into 6 GHz).
The two frequencies differ in that 2.4 GHz WiFi transmits data slower but has a farther range than 5 GHz. 5 GHz WiFi transmits data at a higher speed but has a shorter range because of the higher frequency.
The Pros and Cons of 2.4 GHz WiFi
The 2.4 GHz frequency supports many devices besides phones and computers, such as industrial Bluetooth modules, appliances, sensors, and measurement equipment. 2.4 GHz WiFi is ideal in many situations. It transmits data at a greater distance compared to a 5 GHz WiFi but at a slower rate. Multiple nearby, overlapping 2.4 GHz WiFi networks can cause interference, slowing data transmission even more.
2.4 GHz WiFi is better at traveling not only over longer distances than 5 GHz but also through potential obstructions like walls. It’s a better choice when connecting many different devices across multiple rooms or large areas, such as in a warehouse or other industrial environments.
The Pros and Cons of 5 GHz WiFi
5 GHz WiFi’s immediate benefit is faster speed. However, it has a far shorter range than 2.4 GHz WiFi. But again, this is only a “limitation” or a “disadvantage” if this works against your use case, not for it. 5 GHz WiFi is also faster and better for high-demand tasks despite weaker penetration through obstacles like walls and other structures.
The 5 GHz network is the way to go if a device is a short distance away with line-of-sight to the 5 GHz WiFi antenna. In consumer-grade networking, 5 GHz WiFi is often considered ideal for specific high-speed tasks like streaming video and gaming, requiring the device to be physically close to the WiFi antenna. 5 GHz is less common in an IIoT environment due to obstructions, such as production floor machinery and warehouse shelving. Sensors and monitoring equipment with low data needs are well suited for 2.4 GHz.
Additional WiFi Considerations
It’s important to note that the WiFi network alone isn’t enough to ensure that your Industrial IoT deployment runs smoothly. Along with the frequency, the WiFi antenna placement, the channel, and bandwidth deserve examination to optimize signal coverage.
A proper antenna position is essential for maximum performance. Place the WiFi antenna of the router or access point in a centralized, elevated location. And keep it away from walls, metal objects, and other devices that could interfere with the WiFi signal. This undertaking will help ensure that all your devices receive the best possible signal, allowing them to function without issue and at peak performance. Confirm that the 2.4 and 5 GHz connections are correctly configured at the WiFi antenna level for the best results.
Several selectable WiFi channels are available, and it’s vital to select one on the network to support the maximum number of devices and use cases. Choose one that is less congested and has fewer competing signals to cut down on interference. It will improve WiFi performance dramatically. 2.4 GHz WiFi has 11 channels, while the 5 GHz spectrum uses 24 channels.
It’s essential to choose the proper bandwidth for security purposes. If you have a dual-band router that supports it, always select the 80 MHz bandwidth for the best performance. However, if you have many devices connected to your network, the 40 MHz bandwidth may be more appropriate.
Finally, the choice between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz WiFi depends on the application. If it needs to support a network of diverse devices, the 2.4 GHz connection may be best. The 2.4 GHz frequency is the better choice for older hardware and ones that need to remain connected while surrounded by obstructions. If range isn’t a consideration, and the emphasis is top speed, 5 GHz WiFi is the way to go. Scrutinize uses and applications to find the solution that will accomplish your goals.
Learn More
If you’d like to learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz WiFi or discuss your industrial networking needs with a team of professionals, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
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