URGENT UPDATE: As of today, technology experts are raising alarms about the outdated **2.4 GHz routers** still prevalent in homes across the globe. While **four out of five households** in the U.S. rely on these devices, their capabilities are now woefully inadequate for modern internet demands.
The **2.4 GHz Wi-Fi band**, which first gained traction in **1999** with the **802.11b standard**, is now considered a relic. Originally capable of just **11 Mbps**, it has seen some upgrades, but maximum practical speeds rarely exceed **100 Mbps**. In stark contrast, users with newer **5 GHz routers** can achieve speeds of up to **1 Gbps**, while the cutting-edge **6-GHz Wi-Fi 7** can double that to **2 Gbps**.
As households increasingly connect multiple high-demand devices, the performance of **2.4 GHz routers** is crumbling under the pressure. With the proliferation of **smart TVs, gaming consoles**, and **IoT devices**, this outdated technology is no longer sufficient. The **lower bandwidth** and crowded airwaves mean many consumers are experiencing frustrating connectivity issues.
In densely populated areas, the situation worsens. Common household devices, including **baby monitors** and **microwave ovens**, contribute to the congestion, making reliable Wi-Fi a challenge. However, it’s important to note that **2.4 GHz routers** still offer better coverage and can penetrate walls more effectively than higher-frequency bands.
For those still using these routers, experts recommend considering a transition to a **dual-band router** like the **TP-Link Archer GE230**. This model allows users to maintain compatibility with older devices while unlocking better performance for modern needs.
Despite their limitations, **2.4 GHz routers** are not entirely obsolete. They can still serve specific purposes, such as supporting **IoT devices** that require longer range and better signal penetration. **Streaming video, remote working,** and gaming demands have proven too much for these routers, but they can be repurposed as part of a hybrid setup.
Experts suggest using an older **2.4 GHz router** as a secondary device for low-bandwidth tasks while relying on a modern **dual- or tri-band router** for primary connectivity. This approach ensures smooth operations for **cloud backups** and other high-demand activities while the older router handles less critical tasks.
As technology rapidly evolves, the call to upgrade is clear. Households must evaluate their current setups and consider whether their **ancient routers** can still meet their needs. With connectivity being more crucial than ever, now is the time to act.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as we monitor how consumers adapt to these challenges.
