Benefits of using one WiFi name and password
The Ignite WiFi Gateway is an all-in-one device that delivers whole-home WiFi coverage, fast Internet speed and the ability to control your home network—for the ultimate connected experience.
If you have a Ignite WiFi Gateway, you should now use the same WiFi name and password for both your 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, so you can take advantage of this seamless connection to the best network.
Did you know: The Ignite WiFi Gateway (Gen 3) also provides access to a third band, 6 GHz, making it our first "tri band" Gateway.
How to change your settings
If you're using the Ignite WiFi Gateway, and you aren't already using the same WiFi name and password for your WiFi bands, you can update your WiFi name and password to be the same. This will ensure you're getting a seamless in-home WiFi experience with the best connections possible.
You can change your WiFi name and password using the Ignite HomeConnect App.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is band steering and how does it work?
Band steering means the Ignite WiFi Gateway determines which WiFi network band is most optimal for your device's WiFi connection at any given time. It seamlessly changes to the best band based on network readings. To enable band steering, the bands must use the same WiFi name and password.
What's the difference between the WiFi bands?
- The 2.4 GHz band offers better WiFi coverage, but is more common and will provide slower speed than the higher bands.
- The 5 GHz band delivers faster speeds thanks to less congestion and wider channels, but has less range than the 2.4 GHz band.
- The 6 GHz band provides even faster speed than the 5 GHz band, but works better for devices with line of sight to the Gateway. This band is only available on Ignite WiFi Gateway (Gen 3).
Does the 6 GHz network work with band steering?
Yes it does. Currently this is only accessible on the Ignite WiFi Gateway (Gen 3), however it can be combined with the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz in the same manner.
I only see one in-home WiFi name now and I used to see two - what happened?
If you've upgraded your modem to the Ignite WiFi Gateway, or changed settings on your Gateway, this may be why you're now seeing just one WiFi name.
When you have a single name and password for your network, you will only see one option to connect to. Be assured that the second WiFi band is still working in the background to optimize your connection.
What happens if the WiFi network band names and passwords are different?
If the WiFi network names and/or passwords are different, you will not be able to take advantage of band steering and will need to manually manage which WiFi network band each device connects to. This is not recommended.