Upgrade your old 2.4 GHz router: switch to Wi‑Fi 6/6E/7

© A. Krivonosov

Home internet can look fast on the plan yet feel sluggish day to day. The bottleneck is often not the provider but an aging router. Single-band models locked to 2.4 GHz are increasingly out of step with today’s demands.

Why 2.4 GHz no longer cuts it

For years, this band was the universal choice. It pushes through walls and works even with older devices. Over time, though, it has become crowded: too many gadgets share the same frequencies — from smart bulbs to microwaves. The result is lower speeds and higher latency. For streaming video, online gaming, and moving large files, that channel turns into a choke point.

What modern Wi‑Fi standards deliver

Wi‑Fi 6, 6E, and 7 open up the 5 and 6 GHz bands. These frequencies are less congested and provide higher speeds with greater stability. The newer standards support OFDMA and MU‑MIMO, which distribute the load across devices so they can operate simultaneously without noticeable dips. Security is handled by WPA3, replacing outdated encryption schemes.

Why an old router slows your network

Single‑band units can’t keep up with the number of connected devices. A home with laptops, consoles, TVs, and smart gadgets quickly hits the limits of legacy hardware. Beyond speed, protection suffers too: older standards secure connections less effectively, raising the risk of data leaks and break‑ins.

What models make sense today

  • For most users, dual‑ and tri‑band routers with Wi‑Fi 6 or 6E support are the sweet spot.
  • Popular options include TP‑Link AX1800 Archer AX21 and ASUS RT‑AX1800S.
  • For 6 GHz operation, TP‑Link AXE5400 is a good fit.
  • For maximum performance, Wi‑Fi 7 models are available, such as TP‑Link BE3600 or GL.iNet GL‑BE9300.

Why upgrade your router

Modern networks need stable connectivity. A new router boosts speed, improves reliability, and strengthens data protection. In homes packed with wireless devices, upgrading is less a luxury than a necessity. In many cases, replacing an old unit brings a more noticeable improvement in everyday internet quality than moving to a higher-tier plan.