What does "band steering" achieve in wireless networks?

Band steering is a technique used in wireless networks to optimize the performance and efficiency of the network by encouraging dual-band clients to connect to the higher frequency band, typically the 5 GHz band. This is significant because the 5 GHz band generally has more available channels, offers higher data rates, and is less congested compared to the 2.4 GHz band, which is often crowded due to interference from other devices like microwaves, Bluetooth devices, and many legacy Wi-Fi devices.

When band steering is effectively implemented, wireless access points can actively guide compatible devices to connect to the 5 GHz band instead of the 2.4 GHz band. This results in better overall performance for the network, as devices that are able to take advantage of the 5 GHz band will experience improved throughput and reduced latency.

In contrast, limiting user access to certain bands or restricting the use of the 2.4 GHz band doesn't effectively utilize the capabilities of dual-band devices and could lead to connectivity issues or inadequate coverage for clients that can only operate on the 2.4 GHz band. Enhancing the coverage area isn't the primary goal of band steering; while improved connections on the 5 GHz band might lead to a perception of better coverage in areas with strong