Heavy Wireless HW051: How Wi-Fi Devices Handle Roaming On 2.4, 5, and 6 GHz Bands
Apr 29, 2025
In this discussion, Jerry Olla, a Wi-Fi expert and speaker, reveals insights from his research on how devices roam across 2.4, 5, and 6 GHz bands. He delves into innovative testing methods that highlight the advantages of tri-band devices, especially in high-density areas. Listeners learn about the challenges iOS devices face in roaming and the role of K and V parameters in performance. Jerry also shares strategies for optimizing 6 GHz networks, emphasizing wider channels and overall network management for enhanced performance.
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Innovative Roaming Test Setup
- Jerry Olla created a roaming test rig using two APs with adjustable power levels to simulate client movement without physically moving devices.
- This setup triggered around 20 roaming events per client for repeatable testing across many devices.
Diverse Client Roaming Preferences
- Clients behave very differently when roaming; some prefer 6 GHz consistently, while others often prefer 2.4 GHz or bounce between bands.
- Mobile devices lean towards 2.4 GHz, but Intel and MacBook devices favor 6 GHz exclusively.
Wider Channels Attract Clients
- Increasing channel width on 6 GHz bands strongly attracts clients to that band over 2.4 or 5 GHz.
- Even widening from 20 MHz to 40 MHz on 6 GHz significantly boosts client preference for that band.