Splitting 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz on Starlink is often better for managing device performance, giving faster 5 GHz to speed-hungry devices (phones, streaming) and longer-range 2.4 GHz to older or distant IoT gadgets (smart plugs, cameras), though default combined networks work well for modern devices that automatically switch; split them if you have connectivity issues with older tech or want more control.
You don't need to split them. That's only needed if you want to force a device to connect to the 5GHz network.
Yes it is better to split. I have all cameras, lights, printers, and environmental controls on 2.4ghz. I have PCs on 5ghz. Phones I chose 2.4ghz (although they can use the extra speed I've never needed them to). 5ghz is quicker with shorter direct line of sight.
Boosting Starlink Wi-Fi: Simple Steps for Better Connectivity
Splitting network frequencies can indeed impact your WiFi speed and coverage. Using both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands can optimize your network performance. The 2.4 GHz band provides broader coverage and is better at penetrating walls and obstacles, but it offers lower speeds.
So, why is it not recommended to split WiFi bands? When you split the bands, devices might struggle to switch smoothly between the faster 5GHz and the longer-range 2.4GHz. This is a problem because the WiFi environment is always changing with factors like signal strength going up and down.
Disadvantages of Ethernet Splitters
If one device uses more bandwidth, it could slow down internet speeds for other connected devices. Additionally, if you have too many devices connected to the splitter, it could result in slower internet speeds across all devices.
Surfaces that are up at least halfway up the room are better than the floor if possible – signal emits mainly along the same plane it is placed in. Open space: The router communicates best when it is not closed in. Avoid cabinets, media consoles, and closets.
The Starlink "2-month rule" means that if you're using a Mobile Regional plan (or sometimes standard residential plans with portability) outside your registered service country for more than 60 consecutive days (about two months), you must update your service address to the new location or risk service suspension, as Starlink requires usage within authorized regions on their map, forcing you to change your account to avoid being cut off.
The direct correlation between user base growth and network strain is evident in the recent issues faced by many Starlink subscribers. As more consumers connect to the service, the available bandwidth per user inevitably diminishes.
Yes, 5GHz Wi-Fi can go through walls, but its range and ability to penetrate walls are generally less effective compared to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi.
Combined SSID:
Offers a 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi network, broadcasts both on the same network name. The router and device will automatically choose what band to use based on connection and capabilities of the device.
If you're able to use most of your devices near your router, 5 GHz is your best choice to take advantage of higher speeds. Similarly, if you're doing a lot of high-bandwidth activities online, such as gaming or videoconferencing, it's best to use this frequency and move as close as possible to the router.
Starlink has built significant market share around the world, Farrar said, and users aren't likely to quit just because of the founder's politics. “Once you've got the service and it's running, you're paying every month for it and given there are few alternatives, it's unlikely you'll turn it off,” said Farrar.
It is always better to separate them. Not only does this allow you to keep slower devices off of the 5GHz band, but it it can make it easier to manage devices as well.
Disadvantages of Starlink:
The $200 Starlink deal typically refers to a temporary discount on the Starlink Mini Kit hardware, reducing its price from around $499 to $299 for portable, on-the-go internet, often part of seasonal promotions or to boost subscribers in less congested areas, with some areas also offering significant savings on the standard dish for fixed locations. These deals make Starlink more accessible, focusing on specific hardware (like the Mini) or regional availability where network capacity allows for more users, but availability and specific terms change frequently.
[July 24, 2025, 3:30 PM PDT]
ThousandEyes data indicates that Starlink began experiencing a widespread global outage around 19:15 UTC. Service began to recover at around 21:31 UTC, with most locations seeing recovery by about 21:40 UTC.
A Starlink satellite has a lifespan of approximately five years and SpaceX eventually hopes to have as many as 42,000 satellites in this so-called megaconstellation.
The 2.4GHZ is a slower signal but is strong enough to pass through walls, ceilings and floors. The faster 5 GHz signal can't propagate through obstructions. Therefore, when you split your signal into two networks, you're telling the system to use the most efficient solution.
Starlink is focused on making network enhancements which will enable gigabit speeds starting in the most remote places on Earth with the Performance Kit. Service plan upgrades will be available in 2026.
Range or Speed
In general, the difference between 2.4GHz and 5GHz boils down to wireless range vs. speed. If you want better range, use 2.4 GHz. If you need higher performance or speed, use the 5GHz band.
An Ethernet splitter can drop your network speed from gigabit (1000 Mbps) down to just 100 Mbps. For people with slower internet plans, that might not be a huge deal. But if you care about fast file transfers, gaming, or streaming, it can definitely hold you back.
Spyware and viruses can definitely cause problems, but your Internet connection speed can also be affected by add-on programs, the amount of memory the computer has, hard disk space and condition, and the programs that are running. Two of the most frequent causes of poor Internet performance are spyware and viruses.
A splitter will have approximately 3.5 dB of loss on each port. TV signal splitters with more than two output ports are normally made up of multiple two-way splitters.