Most smart home devices are designed to operate exclusively on the 2.4GHz WiFi frequency. While 2.4GHz transmits data at slower speeds compared to the faster 5GHz band, it has a much longer range and better wall penetration. This makes it more reliable for devices that need a constant connection from different parts of the house — like smart plugs, bulbs, or sensors.
Why Connection Issues Happen with Dual-Band Routers
Modern routers often support dual-band frequencies, meaning they broadcast both 2.4GHz and 5GHz signals simultaneously. The 5GHz band is faster and often prioritized by your router. This can cause an issue: your phone or tablet may connect to the 5GHz band, while your smart device is trying to connect over 2.4GHz—resulting in a failed pairing.
How to Ensure a Successful Connection
To successfully link your smart home device, both your phone and the smart device must be connected to the same 2.4GHz network during setup. Here’s how to make that happen:
How to Split Your Wi-Fi Into Separate 2.4GHz and 5GHz Networks
Option 1: Easy Mode – Check for a Router Switch
Some routers have a physical switch or a setting in their app to disable “band steering” or manually separate the two frequencies. Look for this first. If you're unsure, search your router’s model number online—there may be a user guide or video tutorial to help.
Option 2: Advanced – Log in to Your Router Settings
If there's no physical switch, follow these steps to manually separate the bands:
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Find Your Router’s IP Address:
On Windows: Use Command Prompt and type
ipconfig, then find the “Default Gateway.”On Mac: Go to System Preferences > Network > Advanced > TCP/IP tab.
Or, simply check the label on the back of your router—it often includes the IP address and login info.
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Log In to Your Router:
Open a web browser and enter the IP address in the address bar.
Use the default username and password (usually printed on the router) or search online for your model's defaults.
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Separate the Bands:
Once logged in, find the WLAN settings or Local Network section.
Look for a setting called WLAN Band Steering and disable it.
Rename each band by changing their SSID (network name)—e.g.,
MyHome_2.4GHzandMyHome_5GHz.Set unique passwords for each network if required.
Now your router will show two distinct Wi-Fi networks!
What to Do After Splitting the Wi-Fi
Once you’ve successfully split your Wi-Fi:
Open the BOLDR Home App.
Go to Settings > Wi-Fi Settings.
Change the SSID to the new 2.4GHz network name and enter the correct password.
Your BOLDR Temperature Sensor is now ready to pair with the app!
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