Dual-band routers send two Wi-Fi signals. The 2.4 GHz signal reaches farther and the 5 GHz signal is faster. Many routers merge them under one name and move devices between them. That is convenient for phones and trouble for a small camera that only understands one band.
Steps
- Find out if the device needs 2.4 GHz
Read its page. Wyze says most of its cameras join only 2.4 GHz networks and will not join 5 GHz. Blink says its products connect to 2.4 GHz and that merged bands are not supported. eufy says its devices cannot join 5 GHz and the name should not be hidden.
- Sign in to the router
Use the router's app or its address. If you do not know the address, see finding your router's address.
- Find the setting that merges the bands
Routers call it Smart Connect, band steering or a similar name. If a setting like that is on, turn it off. Names vary, so look in the Wi-Fi section.
- Give each band its own name
Add 2G and 5G to the end of the name. Keep the same password if you like.
- Put your phone on the 2.4 GHz name
Many setup apps check which network the phone is on. Join the 2.4 GHz name before starting.
- Add the device
Follow the maker's steps with the phone on the 2.4 GHz name.
- Decide whether to merge again
Once the device is set up, you can leave the names split, or merge again. If the device drops off after merging, split them again.
Does splitting make my internet slower?
No. Splitting only changes the names and who goes where. Your plan speed is set by the High Desert connection, and Wi-Fi speed is a separate matter that the guide 2.4 versus 5 versus 6 GHz explains.
What if my device sees only 5 GHz?
Move closer to the router during setup, because 2.4 GHz is sometimes weak behind walls. If it still fails, call 775-575-9593 and say the brand and what the app says.
What if I have a mesh system?
Some mesh apps let you split bands and some do not. Look in the app's Wi-Fi settings, or try a guest network that is 2.4 GHz only, as a Canon community thread suggests for a printer. See the matching brand article.
Do I need to go outside or touch the antenna for this?
Nothing on this page needs you to go outside. Never climb to the antenna or touch the outdoor radio or its cable; call and a technician comes to the house.
Sources
- support.wyze.com/hc/en-us/articles/10035278203547-Wyze-Tips-to-Improve-your-Wi-Fi-Connecti (Wyze, Wi-Fi tips, 2.4 GHz requirement, seen in a search summary 2026-10-15; page not opened)
- support.blinkforhome.com/wi-fi-or-network-issues/understanding-wifi-network-requirements (Blink, Wi-Fi and network requirements, read 2026-10-15)
- service.eufy.com/article-description/Failed-to-Connect-eufy-HomeBase-to-WiFi-Network (eufy, HomeBase 2.4 GHz requirement, seen in a search summary 2026-10-15)