Device requires 2.4 band but I have a mesh router

[DH004]

Hi there- I have a Google mesh router, which, as I understand it, cannot have 2.4 and 5 bands split. However, I have a smart-device that will only work on a 2.4 band. Is there a work-around that will allow me to use this smart device with my mesh router? Thank you for feedback! 

[PatrickP_Viking · Accepted solution]

Hey @DH004 .

Nest Wifi broadcasts a 2.4, 5, and 6 GHz bands simultaneously and is the norm for routers. The band that a device connects to is determined by the device itself and not the Nest Wifi, or any router for that matter. Simply put, the device requests a 2.4GHz connection, the Nest Wifi acknowledges it has an available one, and the device connects to the 2.4 GHz. If there isn't a 2.4 GHz band available, the device will not establish an internet connection. This article explains the different bands in more detail: How Nest Wifi and Google Wifi 2.4, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz bands work 

The below articles can also be referenced for additional information about device connections: 

Devices incompatible with Google Nest Wifi Pro, Nest Wifi, or Google Wifi devices 

Your home and connected devices 

Let me know if you have any further questions.

[DH004]

Thank you for your feedback. Given this info, it sounds more like an issue with the device. I’ve read that some devices like home security or older printers aren’t compatible with a duelband router; does this mean I’m out of luck with this particular device or is there something I can do to help it access that band that it needs to? TIA! 

[PatrickP_Viking]

Hey @DH004 .

I'm not sure where you read that but it is incorrect. Nearly all routers now simultaneously broadcast 2.4 and 5 GHz with some having an additional 6 GHz band and the multi-cast doesn't affect connections from devices of a particular frequency. Also, most IoT (Internet of Things) use only 2.4 GHz since it has a longer range than 5 or 6 GHz, although some are starting to use the 5 GHz band that don't require longer distances. As proof that the multi-cast has no affect on 2.4 GHz devices, my network has anywhere from 50-60 devices connected at any time and at least half or more are 2.4 GHz only devices and they connect and stay connected without issues.

If you are having trouble connecting a particular device, try  the below:

• Make sure all apps and devices involved in the setup are updated to the latest versions.
• Refer to the Troubleshoot setup with iOS to make sure default iOS/Apple settings are not interfering with the setup.
• Make sure the device is compatible by referring to the information in the previously linked guide.
• Move further from the router and/or points to get out of range of the 5 GHz band. Sometimes it is stronger than the 2.4 GHz band and some devices do not detect the 2.4 GHz as a result due to sub-par hardware and software. Moving further away, setting up the device, and then moving it where you want will make sure that even lower performing devices will always connect to the 2.4 GHz band. Once it connects to 2.4 GHz it will remember the connection and the 5 GHz will not overshadow the 2.4 GHz band from the device's perspective.
• Check the device's Support if the above doesn't get the devices connected.

From my experience, most lower end devices are the ones that have issues as you are describing due to using lower performing hardware and software. I had a few devices in the past that I had issues getting connected for the same reason but once connected worked fine and maintain the connection for the most part. I eventually replaced them since every time the device updated software I had issues again. Keep in mind that lower priced doesn't mean lower end; check reviews and specs of the device to see what issues others have. While I can't recommend what devices you should use, I can say that generic brands are typically worse and have more issues than more known brands. 

I hope this helps.