You are using an unsupported browser. Please update your browser to the latest version on or before July 31, 2020.
close
You are viewing the article in preview mode. It is not live at the moment.
Home > WiFi FAQ > Why do I see two WiFi networks?
Why do I see two WiFi networks?
print icon

When browsing the list of available WiFi networks and your device displays two similarly named options for your specific residence/unit, do not worry, this is done in order to provide the best WiFi service for your device and user experience.

 

IPacket's WiFi service is purposefully configured to broadcast WiFi networks in two different frequencies, 2.4GHz and 5GHz, assuming the equipment onsite is 5Ghz-enabled. The locations that broadcast two SSID options have most likely recently gone through an IPacket internet infrastructure upgrade in which next generation dual-band Access Points are installed, among other things.

 

2.4GHz is the longstanding WiFi frequency as dictated by the FCC, and it used to be the only spectrum legally available in the United States. Its increasing overuse and limited channel options tends to lead to interference issues, especially in multi-household sites like condos, hotels and resorts.

 

To the end WiFi user, this interference can feel like poor connection quality, a general failure to connect, buffering, slow speeds, etc. as devices have trouble filtering out all the "noise" surrounding them. Over the years, this problem has become even more pronounced as bandwidth demand increases. The 2.4GHz frequency also became a limiting force in the amount of speed that could be offered via a WiFi connection.

 

The FCC answered this demand in 2013 when they introduced 5GHz as a newly approved WiFi spectrum. By comparison, 5GHz has a significantly lower risk of interference (i.e. a solution to connection/user experience issues) and the ability to facilitate much higher WiFi speeds.

 

If your location has dual-band Access Points installed, at least one of the network names will have an ending that indicates the frequency being used. "ILR-405-Fast" or "ILR-405-5G" will be used to identify 5GHz networks, and "ILR-405" or "ILR-406-2G" are used for 2.4Ghz networks.

 

While the exact format for the naming of these networks will vary depending on when the dual-band internet upgrade took place, the one constant is that both networks will have the same password. You can use either network at your discretion, but do not be alarmed if your device only displays one WiFi network SSID option. This can happen depending on the technology or programming within the device that makes it only able to connect to the 2.4Ghz or 5Ghz network. As more manufacturers adopt dual-band standards, this will become less of an issue. 

 

Contact Customer Support:

(877) 912-1550

Create a customer support request

 

Contact Billing:

(850) 588-1112

[email protected]

scroll to top icon