What does 2.5 GHz mean, and what does 5 GHz mean?

GHz is short for gigahertz; 2.5 and 5 GHz are two frequencies with different speeds and ranges used by your Wi-Fi router.

Should I use 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz Wi-Fi?

2.4 GHz has a larger coverage area and can penetrate solid objects better than 5 GHz, but has a lower data rate. But, 2.4 GHz usually has more devices connected, and is more prone to interference.

What GHz is my Wi-Fi?

It's easy to check if Wi-Fi is 2.4 or 5 GHz on an iPhone or iPad; just open the Settings app, and you'll see your Wi-Fi frequency next to the name of your Wi-Fi network.

How to Check Your Wi-Fi Ghz on iPhone & iPad (iOS 17)

By Leanne Hays Updated 08/30/2023

What to Know

To know if your Wi-Fi is 2.4 or 5 GHz, open the Settings app, then look next to the name of your Wi-Fi network.
To change from 2.4 to 5 GHz and back again, tap Wi-Fi in Settings, then tap the Wi-Fi frequency you want to switch to.
The 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi frequency is weaker, but has a larger coverage area. 5 GHz Wi-Fi has a smaller coverage area, but a stronger signal.

Are you wondering what Wi-Fi frequency your iPhone or iPad is connected to? Here's how to check your Wi-Fi GHz on an iPhone.

How to Check Your Wi-Fi Ghz on iPhone & iPad

Be sure to check out our free Tip of the Day for more great internet and Wi-Fi tutorials. Now, here's how to know if your Wi-Fi is 2.5 or 5 GHz, and how to change your Wi-Fi frequency.

Open the Settings app.
You'll see Wi-Fi with a network name and either 2.4 or 5 GHz next to it; it's just that easy to find out which Wi-Fi frequency you're using! If you want to change Wi-Fi frequencies, just tap Wi-Fi.

The network you're currently using is the one with the blue checkmark next to it. Tap the network without the checkmark to change from 2.4 to 5 GHz, or from 5 to 2.4 GHz.

FAQ

What does 2.5 GHz mean, and what does 5 GHz mean? GHz is short for gigahertz; 2.5 and 5 GHz are two frequencies with different speeds and ranges used by your Wi-Fi router.
Should I use 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz Wi-Fi? 2.4 GHz has a larger coverage area and can penetrate solid objects better than 5 GHz, but has a lower data rate. But, 2.4 GHz usually has more devices connected, and is more prone to interference.
What GHz is my Wi-Fi? It's easy to check if Wi-Fi is 2.4 or 5 GHz on an iPhone or iPad; just open the Settings app, and you'll see your Wi-Fi frequency next to the name of your Wi-Fi network.

By now, you should know how to tell if your Wi-Fi is 2.4 or 5 GHz. Be sure to check back with iPhone Life for all your iPhone, iPad, and other Apple device questions!

Discover your iPhone's hidden features

Get one daily tip each day (with screenshots and clear instructions) so you can master your iPhone in just one minute a day.

Master your iPhone in one minute a day: Sign up here to get our FREE Tip of the Day delivered right to your inbox.

Topics

Author Details

Leanne Hays

Leanne Hays has over a dozen years of experience writing for online publications. As a Feature Writer for iPhone Life, she has authored hundreds of how-to, Apple news, and gear review articles, as well as a comprehensive Photos App guide. Leanne holds degrees in education and science and loves troubleshooting and repair. This combination makes her a perfect fit as manager of our Ask an Expert service, which helps iPhone Life Insiders with Apple hardware and software issues.
In off-work hours, Leanne is a mother of two, homesteader, audiobook fanatic, musician, and learning enthusiast.

Article Spotlight

Our Favorite Tech Storage Solutions

Keeping your tech accessories, chords, accessories, and gadgets organized can be a real chore. That's why we are always on the lookout for organization solutions that aren't just functional but also look great. Our friends at CASEBUDi have some great options available on Amazon for budget conscious travelers that we think you'll love!

Discover the Perfect Travel Companions:

Featured Products

This USB-C Mouse Is the Last You'll Ever Need to Buy

A good mouse is worth investing in. The Wired PBT Mouse by Matias stands out from the crowd because it is made using higher-quality plastic. Instead of using cheap ABS, these mice feel luxurious with a unique satin feel and aluminum scroll wheel. Matias has over 20 years of experience creating universal keyboards that work on Macs, PCs, iPads, and other USB-C-compatible devices. If you love their keyboard, you’ll love their mice, available in black and white with either USB or USB-C. It is also extra secure and doesn’t require installing any drivers. Try it today!

The only iPad case with 5 stars!

Are you looking for an iPad case that checks all the boxes? Look no further! Zugu creates convenient cases in a wide variety of colors that are protective and slim. Thanks to the eight-angle magnetic stand, your iPad will always be ready for work, play, and even travel. In the rare case of any iPad damage, Zugu will cover AppleCare+ repair costs and offers free 60-day returns plus a 2-year warranty. With 10% of profits donated to a charitable cause, your Zugu case purchase will take your iPad to the next level while making a meaningful difference.