If you want to control the lights in your home in a smart way, smart bulbs are the best option!
However, when connecting these bulbs to a WiFi network, you need to consider the frequency.
Nowadays, many people are using advanced WiFi with dual-band connections. This WiFi works on 2.4GHz as well as 5GHz frequency.
By default, the WiFi works on 5GHz to offer better speed and connection to the users. But the main problem with this type of connection is that smart bulbs don't work on it.
If you install a smart bulb and try to connect it with the WiFi using your phone, it will not be detected.
This happens because smart bulbs still work on a 2.4GHz frequency. It will not be compatible with the wireless router in your home if there is a difference in the frequency protocol.
So, you have to be very careful when setting up smart bulbs. If you want to know more about this topic, follow this guide.
We will explain to you if smart bulbs work with 5GHz WiFi and what to do in order to connect them.
What Are Smart Bulbs?
As the name goes, it is a type of smart light device that helps you to control and manage the lights in your home remotely in an efficient manner.
One of the best things about smart bulbs is the ability to control them remotely. With the app, you can turn on and off your light, dim them, and set scene alerts.
You can even program your lights to come on and off at certain times. You can even group multiple bulbs together and set them to dim automatically. You can also voice-command the bulbs, which is great for parties or other events.
Smart bulbs are controlled by smartphones, tablets, and a home automation hub. They use wireless communication standards to connect to a mobile app or home automation hub.
Some smart bulbs will need a special gateway to work. For Philips-brand smart bulbs, you will need a Philips Hue Bridge. This bridge allows you to set your lights to change colours and dim them remotely. They also work with Alexa or Google Home.
They can even change colour or turn off by themselves based on your mood. This is a great way to save money and improve the quality of your life. But make sure you research them before you buy any of them.
If you're looking to automate your home, you'll want to consider using smart bulbs. They'll let you turn off your lights when you leave for work or turn them on and off automatically when you're running fast tasks.
Difference between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz WiFi Network:
The most important difference between a 2.4 GHz and a 5 GHz WiFi network is the speed. The latter offers a greater range but is slower. As a result, it is best for larger homes.
Smaller homes should use the corresponding 2.4 GHz network. But, if you are using your wireless network to stay connected in your neighbourhood, it is better to go with a higher-speed 5GHz network.
The 2.4 GHz frequency is better for home use when extending your network over several floors or to a neighbour's house. It can penetrate walls and floors more easily, and therefore, is better for longer range and better coverage.
The 5 GHz frequency is better suited for outdoor use, where the speed will be faster. However, it is not as good in the case of large buildings or solid objects.
Regardless of your needs, you should pick a high-speed, dual-band network to get the best performance. However, if you want to use smart bulbs without any hassle, it is best to stick with a 2.4GHz network as it is compatible with 5GHz.
Do Any Smart Bulbs Work With 5GHz WiFi?
You've probably wondered whether any smart bulbs work with 5GHz WiFi, but the answer is no. They all work with 2.4 GHz, so you won't have any problems with this.
However, you should be aware that this band of WiFi tends to be congested with other devices, so you should choose your smart bulb according to its frequency.
Most smart bulbs work on the 2.4 GHz spectrum, and they are best suited for this frequency. If you want to make sure that your smart bulb works with 5GHz WiFi, you need to ensure that the two frequencies are compatible.
If you're worried that your smart bulb won't connect to your home network, you should check whether the device you're using can support the same frequency. You'll need to ensure that it is compatible with the specific device you're using. If you're planning on buying a smart bulb, check if it has WiFi on both 2.4 and 5 GHz.
How to Connect a 2.4 GHz Smart Bulb to a 5 GHz Network?
Practically a 2.4GHz smart bulb is totally incompatible with a 5GHz WiFi network. However, there are a few others hacks by which you can connect the bulb to your WiFi network.
If you have a 2.4 GHz smart bulb and want to connect it to a 5 GHz network, you need to change the WiFi network frequency. You need to change it from 5GHz to 2.4GHz. The best way to do this is to create 2 SSIDs.
Most dual-band WiFi routers provide this option. If you create one SSID with 2.4GHz, the smart bulb will easily connect with it. If you're not sure how to do this, check the instructions on your router manual or visit online sites for tutorials. Once you've done this, you're ready to connect your 2.4 GHz smart bulb to your new 5GHz network with a secondary connection of 2.4GHz.
Another thing you can do is purchase a smart bulb that needs a bridge for connection. This way, it will create another access point to connect with an assistant. Philips Hue uses a bridge to connect the bulb with the network, thereby helping you to easily use a smart bulb with 5GHz WiFi.