How to Disable 5G Wi-Fi on a Router: A Complete Guide with Examples

Modern routers support two Wi-Fi frequencies: 2.4 GHz And 5 GHzThe latter is often referred to as "5G Wi-Fi"—not to be confused with the 5G mobile network!—due to its higher data transfer speeds. However, in some situations, users may need to disable this frequency: for example, if older devices don't support 5 GHz, there's interference, or they need to reduce network congestion.

In this article, we will take a detailed look at how to properly deactivate the 5 GHz network on routers from popular manufacturers (TP-Link, ASUS, Xiaomi, Keenetic etc.), what nuances are important to consider before changing settings, and what to do if the internet connection is lost after disconnecting. You'll also find answers to frequently asked questions and tips for optimizing Wi-Fi performance.

Before you begin tweaking settings, make sure that disabling 5 GHz is really necessary. In some cases, simply divide the networks (give them different names) or set connection priority on devices. If you're determined to deactivate the frequency, follow the instructions below, taking into account your router model.

Why might you need to disable 5G Wi-Fi?

Despite the advantages of the 5 GHz network (high speed, less interference from neighbors), there are situations when disabling it is justified:

• 📱 Old devices (smartphones before 2016, some smart lamps, cameras) do not support 5 GHz and do not “see” the network.
• 📶 Weak signal at long range: 5 GHz does not penetrate walls as well as 2.4 GHz.
• 🔄 Channel conflict: If neighbors use the same channels, connection interruptions may occur.
• 🔋 Energy saving: Some devices (laptops, tablets) discharge faster when connected to 5 GHz.
• 🛡️ Security: The rarely used 5GHz network can become a vulnerability if the router has a weak password.

Before disabling the frequency, check if the problem can be solved in another way. For example, change the channel in the 5 GHz settings (select 36, 40, 44 or 48 - they are usually less crowded) or reduce transmit power, if the network is "blurring" your neighbors. If there are no alternatives, proceed to the instructions.

Preparing for the shutdown: what you need to do in advance

Before changing your router settings, follow a few simple steps to avoid problems:

1. Check connected devices. Go to the router's web interface (usually at 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1) and see which gadgets use 5 GHz. They'll have to be reconnected to 2.4 GHz.
2. Remember the current settingsTake a photo or write down the network name (SSID), password, encryption type (WPA2/WPA3) and channel for both frequencies.
3. Connect via cableIf you disable 5 GHz on Wi-Fi, you may lose your connection. It's better to use LAN port.
4. Update the firmwareOutdated software may reset settings or function incorrectly. Check the latest version in the section System → Update.

If you are not sure about your actions, Make a backup copy of your router settings (chapter System → Backup). This will allow you to quickly restore network operation in the event of an error. Some models (ASUS RT-AX88U, Keenetic Ultra) support automatic saving of configuration to the cloud - check this option.

⚠️ Attention: If your router is rented from a provider (for example, Rostelecom or MTS), some settings may be locked. In this case, please contact support or request access to advanced settings.

Disabling 5G Wi-Fi on routers of different brands

The admin panel interface and settings layout vary by manufacturer. Below are step-by-step instructions for popular brands. If your model isn't listed, look for the section Wireless (Wireless network) or Wi-Fi and experiment with the parameters 5GHz.

TP-Link (Archer C6, Archer AX20, Deco, etc.)

1. Go to the control panel at tplinkwifi.net or 192.168.0.1 (login and password are usually admin).
2. Go to Advanced Settings → Wireless → 5GHz Wireless Settings.
3. Uncheck the box Enable wireless broadcasting (or move the slider to the position Off).
4. Save the changes by clicking the button Save.

ASUS (RT-AX55, RT-AC68U, ZenWiFi)

1. Open router.asus.com in the browser.
2. In the menu on the left, select Wireless Network → Professional.
3. Find the block 5GHz and set the parameter Turn on the radio in meaning No.
4. Click Apply.

Xiaomi (Mi Router 4A, AX3600, AIoT Router)

1. Connect to miwifi.com or use the app Mi Wi-Fi.
2. Go to Wi-Fi Settings → Additional Settings.
3. Turn off the slider 5G Wi-Fi.
4. Confirm the action.

Keenetic (Giga, Ultra, Hero)

1. Go to the web configurator at my.keenetic.net.
2. Open the section 5 GHz Wi-Fi network.
3. Click on the gear icon next to the network name and select Disable the access point.

After disconnecting, reboot the router (button Reboot (In the menu or using the physical button on the device.) Devices previously connected to 5 GHz will automatically switch to 2.4 GHz if the network name and password are the same.

What should I do if my internet connection is lost after disabling 5G Wi-Fi?

Sometimes disabling the 5 GHz network can lead to unexpected consequences: the router stops distributing internet, devices fail to connect, or speeds drop. Here are the most common causes and how to fix them:

If the problem is not solved, try restore 5 GHz settings and check the network's operation. It's possible that the problem wasn't caused by a frequency outage, but by another factor (such as a provider outage or damaged cable).

⚠️ Attention: On some routers (Zyxel Keenetic, Tenda) disabling 5 GHz may result in automatic mode switching (for example, with AC on N). This will reduce the maximum speed of 2.4 GHz. To avoid this, manually set the mode 802.11n/ac/ax mixed in the settings.

How to separate 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks instead of disabling them?

If your goal is not to disable 5 GHz completely, but simply to force devices to connect to the desired frequency, you can divide the networks, giving them different names (SSIDs). This is useful when:

• 📱 You need to manually select a network for each device (for example, Smart TV — to 5 GHz, and smart home sensors — to 2.4 GHz).
• 🔄 Want to test the stability of each frequency separately.
• 🛡️ We need to restrict access to 5 GHz for guest devices.

To separate networks:

1. Go to your Wi-Fi router settings.
2. Find parameters for 2.4 GHz And 5 GHz.
3. Specify different names (eg. MyWiFi_2G And MyWiFi_5G).
4. Save changes and reconnect the devices.

On some routers (ASUS, Netgear) there is an option Smart Connect — it automatically distributes devices between frequencies. If this feature is enabled, it must be disabled before separating networks.

Which is better?

Disable 5 GHz or split networks?: Disabling 5 GHz makes sense if:

- You do not have devices that support this frequency.

- The 5 GHz network is interfering or conflicting with neighboring routers.

- You want to reduce the power consumption of your router.

Network separation is suitable if:

- You want to flexibly manage the connection of devices.

- It is necessary to test the performance of each frequency.

- Some devices operate unstably when using automatic network selection.

Additional settings to optimize Wi-Fi after disabling 5 GHz

If you've disabled 5GHz but your 2.4GHz network speed or stability is poor, try the following optimizations:

• 📶 Changing the channel: Use apps like Wi-Fi Analyzer (Android) or NetSpot (Windows/macOS) to find the least crowded channel. For 2.4 GHz, it's best to choose 1, 6, or 11.
• 🔄 Channel width: Set value 20 MHz instead of 40 MHz - This will reduce interference, but will slightly reduce the speed.
• 🛡️ Encryption type: Use WPA2-PSK (or WPA3, if all devices support it). Discard the outdated WEP.
• 📡 Transmission power: If your router is overheating or the signal is too strong, reduce the power to 50-75% in the settings.

For routers with support MU-MIMO or Beamforming (ASUS RT-AX88U, TP-Link Archer AX6000) Enable these features - they will improve connection stability for multiple devices simultaneously.

Common 5G Wi-Fi Disconnection Errors and How to Avoid Them

Many users encounter difficulties after changing frequency settings. Here are some common errors and how to prevent them:

1. Disabling both networksIt's possible to inadvertently deactivate 2.4 GHz. Always check which frequency you're editing!
2. Ignoring saving settingsAfter making changes, be sure to click Save or Apply, otherwise the router will revert to the previous configuration.
3. Password mismatchIf you separate networks but leave different passwords, devices will not be able to reconnect automatically.
4. Use of incompatible standards. For example, if the mode is set to 2.4 GHz 802.11ac, older devices won't connect. Choose 802.11n or Mixed mode.

If after disabling 5 GHz the router starts to work unstable, try reset it to factory settings and set it up again. To do this:

1. Press and hold the button Reset (usually it is recessed into the body) for 10-15 seconds.
2. Wait 1-2 minutes for the router to reboot.
3. Log in to the default control panel (the address and login/password are indicated on the router sticker).

⚠️ Attention: On some models (MikroTik, Ubiquiti) Resetting the settings will result in the loss of your provider's configuration (PPPoE, VLAN). If you are unsure of your connection settings, please contact support before resetting.

FAQ: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to disable 5G Wi-Fi on a router from a provider (Rostelecom, Beeline, MTS)?

Yes, but some providers block access to advanced settings. Try:

1. Log in to the control panel at the address specified in the contract (for example, 192.168.100.1 For Beeline).
2. Try the standard login/password (admin/admin or user/user).
3. If access is blocked, call support and request to unblock your Wi-Fi settings.

As a last resort, you can connect your router to the provider's in the mode bridge (bridge) and set up Wi-Fi on it.

How do I know if my device supports 5G Wi-Fi?

There are several ways:

• View the model specifications on the manufacturer's website (look for the lines 5GHz, Dual Band or 802.11ac/ax).
• In the device's Wi-Fi settings (Android: Settings → Wi-Fi → Advanced → Frequency Band).
• Try connecting to a 5 GHz network—if the device "sees" it, it supports it.

Old devices (before 2015), smart bulbs Xiaomi Yeelight, some models Amazon Echo and CCTV cameras often only operate on 2.4 GHz.

Why did my internet speed become slower after disabling 5 GHz?

This is normal: 2.4 GHz is physically slower than 5 GHz. To improve speed:

• Set the channel width 40 MHz (but this may increase interference).
• Turn on standard 802.11n instead of 802.11g.
• Check if devices that consume a lot of traffic (torrents, online games) are connected to the network.

If the speed is critically low, the problem may be with your ISP or cable. Check the speed via a wire (by connecting your computer to the router via LAN).

Is it possible to disable 5G Wi-Fi for only some devices?

Yes, but not on all routers. Options:

• MAC address blacklist: In the router settings (Wireless Mode → MAC Filter) add devices that are prohibited from accessing 5 GHz.
• Guest network: Create a separate 2.4 GHz network for specific devices.
• Connection priority: On some routers (ASUS) you can manually set which frequency the device should connect to.

If your router doesn't support these features, your only option is to disable 5GHz entirely or separate the networks.

How do I turn 5G Wi-Fi back on if I change my mind?

Restoring the 5 GHz network is easy:

1. Go to your router settings.
2. Find the section 5GHz or 5 GHz wireless network.
3. Turn on broadcasting (checkbox or slider).
4. Save the settings and reboot the router.

If you reset your router to factory settings, the 5 GHz network will turn on automatically (if your model supports it).