The larger number is not an automatic answer
A router offers 2.4 and 5 GHz, and the second option initially sounds like the faster choice. Under suitable conditions, 5 GHz can indeed provide more usable capacity. At greater distances or through obstacles, 2.4 GHz may remain easier to reach. Neither observation creates a universal winner for every home and device.
Both ends of the connection must support the band involved. An older accessory may support only 2.4 GHz while a newer laptop supports several bands. Check the specifications of the actual device. The name of an internet plan says nothing about which wireless bands an individual printer or computer can use.
Compare in the room that matters
Use the same laptop where you actually work. Keep its position and distance similar, and compare the bands if your setup allows deliberate selection. A quick trial beside the router does not establish behaviour two rooms away. Observe interruptions and responsiveness as well as transfer results.
Many routers use one network name and help choose an appropriate band automatically. That can be convenient in everyday use. Temporarily separating names may help a specific investigation if the manufacturer supports that approach. Do not change the arrangement without a reason, because previously configured devices may need reconnecting afterwards. Record the original setting before experimenting.
Consider congestion alongside reach
The 2.4 GHz band is used by many other devices and neighbouring networks. A strong signal can therefore coexist with variable performance. Conversely, a less crowded band may arrive too weakly at the desk. A useful choice combines adequate reception with transfer behaviour suited to the activity.
Avoid changing band, channel width, router position and driver simultaneously. An improvement would then give little indication of which change mattered. Begin with one clear comparison and return to the original arrangement if appropriate. Note the time as well if difficulties appear mainly when neighbouring networks are busy.
What about 6 GHz?
Newer equipment may support 6 GHz too. The router, client and permitted configuration must all be compatible. That band does not eliminate the physical limits of a wireless link. The question remains which connection works reliably in the particular location, rather than which number in a product name is largest.
For a stationary device with demanding requirements, Ethernet can bypass the band-selection question altogether. For mobile use, automatic selection is often sufficient when it works consistently. Retain a special manual configuration only when it solves an understandable problem. The technically more interesting setting is not necessarily the more comfortable one to live with each day.
