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Enabling 2.4GHz Wi-Fi on Common Home Routers in Canada

Rogers
Telus
Bell
Shaw

Modern home routers are typically dual-band, broadcasting both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi. The 2.4 GHz band offers broader range and compatibility with many smart devices, so it’s important to ensure it’s enabled. This guide covers how to enable or verify the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi on routers provided by major Canadian ISPs (Rogers, Bell, Telus, Shaw) and popular retail routers (TP-Link, Netgear, ASUS, Linksys, D-Link). We include default login details, step-by-step instructions, and notes on band steering or other quirks. A troubleshooting section at the end addresses common 2.4 GHz issues.

ISP-Provided Routers (Canada)

Rogers (ISP) – Ignite Gateways and Hitron Modems

Common Models: Rogers Ignite Xfinity Gateway (XB6, XB7, XB8) and older Hitron cable modems (CODA-4582, CGN3 series).
Default Login:

  • Ignite Gateways: IP 10.0.0.1; Username: admin; Password: password (prompted to change on first login).
  • Hitron Modems: IP 192.168.0.1; Username: cusadmin; Password: password (or the current Wi-Fi password if it was changed).

Enabling 2.4GHz Wi-Fi on Rogers Modems:

  1. Log in to the router’s web interface using the default IP and credentials above.
  2. For Ignite Gateways (XB6/XB7): Navigate to Gateway > Connection > WiFi in the admin menu. You will see both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz listed. Click Edit next to the 2.4 GHz network. In the Wireless Network field, set it to “Enable” and save settingsrogers.com. Repeat for the 5 GHz network if needed (both bands should be enabled).
  3. For Hitron Modems (CODA, CGN3): Navigate to Wireless > Basic Settings, then select the 2.4G tab. Toggle Wireless Enabled from Off to On, then save settings. Do the same under the 5G tab to ensure 5 GHz is on as well.
  4. The 2.4 GHz SSID and password can be customized under the same Basic Settings section. By default, Rogers modems broadcast separate network names for 2.4 and 5 GHz (unless band steering is active).

Notes: Rogers Ignite gateways use band steering by default, meaning both bands share one SSID (network name) to steer devices to the best bandrogers.com. If you have trouble with 2.4 GHz-only devices, you can split the bands via the web interface or the Ignite Wi-Fi app (disable band steering by giving the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks different names)rogers.comforums.redflagdeals.com. Older Rogers Hitron modems broadcast distinct “2.4G” and “5G” network names by default. Ensure “SSID Broadcast” is enabled for the 2.4 GHz network so that it’s visible to devicestp-link.com.

Telus (ISP) – Actiontec and Wi-Fi Hub Routers

Common Models: Actiontec T3200M gateway (for DSL/Fiber) and the newer Telus Wi-Fi Hub (Wi-Fi 6 router for PureFibre), as well as older models like Zyxel VSG1432 or Actiontec V1000H.

Telus Wifi Hub – Wifi 6 Router

Wifi 6 Instructions – As shown above

Default Login: Most Telus routers use IP 192.168.1.254 for the admin interface (some use 192.168.1.1).

The default username is typically admin. 
Password: Newer Telus routers print a unique admin password on the device (check the sticker or QR Code).

Enabling 2.4GHz Wi-Fi on Telus Routers:

  1. Access the router’s web interface at http://192.168.1.254 and log in with the admin credentials.
    If 192.168.1.254 does not work, instead try http:192.168.1.1
  2. Navigate to the Wireless or Wi-Fi settings section. Telus routers typically list the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz settings separately. For example, on the T3200M, go to Wireless Setup, and you’ll see options for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.
  3. Ensure the 2.4 GHz wireless radio is enabled. There may be a checkbox or toggle such as “Enable Wireless Radio” or “Enable SSID” for the 2.4 GHz band. Make sure it is turned On/Enabled (checked). For instance, on some interfaces under Advanced Wireless Settings, you must check Enable Wireless Router Radio for 2.4 GHz (similar to Netgear’s interface). If there is a dropdown for wireless mode, keep it in a mixed mode (b/g/n) for compatibility.
  4. Verify that the 2.4 GHz SSID is broadcasting (SSID broadcast/visibility should be enabled so devices can find it). Also confirm the network has a password set (WPA2 or WPA3). Save any changes.
  5. If the Telus router supports band steering (“Smart Wi-Fi”), you can decide whether to use it. By default, many Telus routers broadcast separate SSIDs for 2.4 and 5 GHz (e.g., “Telus1234” and “Telus1234-5G”). If Smart Wi-Fi or Band Steering is enabled, both bands share one name. For troubleshooting 2.4 GHz devices, you might disable smart steering to separate the networks (or use the Telus Wi-Fi app to create a dedicated 2.4 GHz guest network for your device).

Notes: The majority of Telus routers use 192.168.1.254 as the gateway IP and default to admin/admin for credentials on first userouter-network.comrouter-network.com, but always check your specific model’s sticker. On the newest Telus Wi-Fi Hub (Wi-Fi 6), the admin password is on the bottom, and it too uses a web UI similar to the Actiontec. If you have Telus Boost mesh extenders, be aware that band steering might be active when they’re in use. In general, Telus routers broadcast 2.4 GHz by default (you shouldn’t need to manually enable it unless it was turned off). If a 2.4 GHz-only device won’t connect, ensure your security mode is set to allow WPA2 (some Telus hubs use WPA2/WPA3 mixed – you may need to use WPA2 for older devices) and that the 2.4 GHz network mode is mixed b/g/n for legacy support.

Older models had defaults like “telus” or “admin”. (E.g., Actiontec T3200M uses admin/ [printed password] very old V1000H used admin/.) If in doubt, use the credentials on the router’s label.

Bell (ISP) – Home Hub Series

Common Models: Bell Home Hub 3000 and Home Hub 4000 (for Fibe internet), and older Home Hub 2000 or Connection Hub for DSL.
Default Login: Bell modem GUI is at http://192.168.2.1 (or bell.ca/mymodem)support.bell.ca. Username is usually “admin”. The password is often unique, printed on the modem’s label (e.g. the Home Hub 3000 uses the admin password or serial number on the routerportforward.com). Older Bell models sometimes use a generic default (e.g. Home Hub 2000 user blank, pass “admin”)portforward.com. If you don’t know the admin password, check the sticker on the unit.

Enabling 2.4GHz Wi-Fi on Bell Home Hubs:

  1. Log in to the Home Hub’s web interface at 192.168.2.1 with admin credentials.
  2. Go to Wi-Fi settings (often under Manage My Wi-Fi in the interface). By default, Bell uses Whole Home Wi-Fi (band steering) – the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz share the same name. The modem automatically broadcasts both bands (2.4 GHz is usually on by default but “hidden” behind the shared SSID). If a 2.4 GHz-only device isn’t connecting, you may need to temporarily separate the bands:
    • Disable Whole Home Wi-Fi: In Wi-Fi settings, turn off the Whole Home Wi-Fi or Band Steering option (this may be a toggle or by unchecking “Keep a common network name for 2.4 and 5 GHz”). Turning this off will allow separate SSIDs for each bandreddit.com. (If you have Bell Mesh Wi-Fi pods, note that disabling Whole Home Wi-Fi will disconnect them while this is off.)reddit.com
    • Once band steering is off, you should see advanced Wi-Fi options. In the Primary Network settings, you can now configure separate 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz SSIDs (e.g., “HomeWiFi_2.4” and “HomeWiFi_5”)reddit.com. Ensure the 2.4 GHz network is enabled (it should be broadcasting by default; there may not be an explicit “enable” checkbox on Home Hubs aside from the SSID on/off toggle, which should be on). Save the settings.
  3. Your 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi should now be active with its own network name. Connect your 2.4 GHz-only devices to this network. After setup, you can re-enable Whole Home (band steering) if you prefer – the devices should remain connected (the Bell hub will manage them)reddit.com. If you keep band steering off, you’ll manage 2.4 and 5 GHz as separate networks going forward.

Notes: The Home Hub’s band steering aims to use one SSID for both bands, which can make it tricky to force a device onto 2.4 GHz. Using the method above, you essentially split the SSIDs. Remember to turn SSID Broadcast on for the 2.4 GHz network (it’s on by default) so devices can see it. Bell’s interface may label the 2.4 GHz settings under “Advanced Settings” once band steering is offreddit.com. For older Bell routers (Home Hub 2000, Connection Hub), the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz were separate by default; simply ensure the 2.4 GHz SSID is set to Enabled in the Wireless settings if there’s an option, and that it isn’t hidden.

Shaw (ISP) – BlueCurve and Legacy WiFi Modems

Common Models: Shaw BlueCurve Fibre+ Gateway (sometimes branded XB6, XB7, XB8 – similar to Comcast Xfinity X1 hardware) and older Shaw modems like the Hitron CGNM-2250, Cisco DPC3848/3825, SMC, and Arris SBG6782.
Default Login:

  • BlueCurve Gateways: IP 10.0.0.1; Username: admin; Password: password19216811.uno (you’ll be asked to change the password on first login).
  • Older Shaw Modems (Hitron/Cisco/SMC): IP 192.168.0.1; Username: cusadmin; Password: often the device’s Wi-Fi Key or S/N printed on the modem19216811.uno19216811.uno. (For Hitron, the default password is the “WiFi Key” on the sticker19216811.uno. For Cisco, use the router’s serial number as password19216811.uno. SMC uses the pre-shared key on the label19216811.uno.)

Enabling 2.4GHz Wi-Fi on Shaw Routers:

  1. Log in to the modem’s web interface using the appropriate IP and credentials above.
  2. For BlueCurve (XB6/7/8): Once logged in, go to the Wi-Fi settings. The interface may have a dashboard (e.g., Connect > See Network in the BlueCurve admin)19216811.uno. Find the option to edit your Wi-Fi settings and ensure 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi is turned on. By default, BlueCurve has one Wi-Fi name for both bands (band steering is on). To explicitly check 2.4 GHz status, you might need to disable band steering: look for an option to “Use different names for 2.4 and 5 GHz” and enable that, which will reveal separate controls. Then set a name for the 2.4 GHz network and make sure the toggle for Broadcast SSID is ON. If there’s a checkbox for “Enable 2.4GHz”, ensure it’s checked. Save the settings. (If you prefer to keep band steering on, the 2.4 GHz is automatically active unless you previously disabled it via the BlueCurve app.)
  3. For Hitron CGNM-2250: After login, navigate to Wireless > Manage Wi-Fi > Basic Settings19216811.uno. Choose the 2.4G network and verify that it is Enabled. (There may be an on/off toggle for the 2.4 GHz wireless radio – set it to Enabled.) Ensure the SSID is not hidden. Save changes.
  4. For Cisco DPC3848/3825: Go to Wireless > Radio Settings in the admin page. There you can select the 2.4GHz Wireless Network and ensure it is enabled (the Cisco interface allows turning the radio on/off)19216811.uno. Confirm the 2.4 GHz SSID is set and broadcasting, then save.
  5. For SMC and Arris models: Similarly, go to the Wireless settings. SMC’s interface might simply have a Wireless On/Off toggle under the primary 2.4 GHz settings – make sure it is On19216811.uno. Arris SBG6782 uses a menu where you select 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz, so select 2.4 GHz and ensure it’s not disabled, then save.

Notes: The BlueCurve (XB6/7/8) gateways use band steering by default, broadcasting one combined SSID for both 2.4 and 5 GHz. If a device cannot see the network or won’t connect on 2.4 GHz, you can log into the admin and disable band steering (split the SSIDs)digitalhome.ca. Give the 2.4 GHz a unique name so you can explicitly connect devices to it. The default Wi-Fi network name on BlueCurve often ends in “-5G” for the 5 GHz band and the 2.4 GHz uses the same name without suffix – both are on by default until intentionally turned off in settingsrogers.com. On older Shaw modems (Hitron/Cisco), the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks were separate by default; just ensure the “Wireless Radio” or “Enable Wireless” option for 2.4GHz is checked in their interfaces (usually found under wireless settings) and that SSID broadcast is enabled. Use mixed 802.11 b/g/n mode for 2.4 GHz for widest device compatibilitylazyadmin.nl.

Retail Home Routers (Popular Brands)

For retail routers, the general process is: log in to the router’s web interface, find the wireless settings, and make sure the 2.4 GHz band is enabled and broadcasting. Below are specifics by brand:

TP-Link Routers (Archer Series, etc.)

Default Login: Most TP-Link routers use IP 192.168.0.1 (or 192.168.1.1 on some) – you can also try http://tplinkwifi.net. Default username: admin; Default password: admin (for older models)genuinemodules.com. Newer TP-Link models may prompt you to set a password on first setup; if so, use that custom password.

Steps to Enable 2.4GHz:

  1. Log in to the TP-Link web management page with the default IP/credentials.
  2. On the admin interface (often a left-hand menu), navigate to Wireless settings. If it’s a dual-band router, TP-Link usually has separate sections for “Wireless 2.4GHz” and “Wireless 5GHz”. Some firmware have a “Dual Band Selection” page where you can tick which bands to runtp-link.com. Ensure that 2.4GHz is selected or enabled here (you should see both 2.4G and 5G marked as enabled in Dual Band Selection)tp-link.com.
  3. Click on Wireless 2.4GHz -> Wireless Settings. Verify the Wireless Radio is turned On (there may be a checkbox like “Enable Wireless Radio” – make sure it’s checked). Also, ensure “Enable SSID Broadcast” is checked so that the network is visibletp-link.com. You can set your 2.4 GHz network name (SSID) and security password on this page if needed.
  4. Save the settings. If you changed anything, the router may require a reboot to apply changes (some TP-Link interfaces will show a notice; you can reboot via System Tools > Reboot after saving)tp-link.com.
  5. Confirm that your 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi is now broadcasting. By default, TP-Link uses separate SSIDs for 2.4 and 5 GHz (e.g., “TP-Link_1234” and “TP-Link_1234_5G”). If your router has a Smart Connect feature (band steering), you might have a single SSID – consider turning off Smart Connect in the Wireless settings to split the bands if you need to explicitly connect 2.4 GHz devicescommunity.tp-link.com.

Notes: On a TP-Link router’s Wireless settings, both 2.4G and 5G should show as enabled – if either is disabled, just check the box to enable it and savetp-link.com. The option “Enable Wireless Router Radio” corresponds to turning the Wi-Fi band on/off. Also ensure channel width is not set to an incompatible value: for crowded areas, 20 MHz is safest for 2.4 GHz. TP-Link routers usually run 2.4 GHz by default, so if you haven’t changed anything, it should already be on. If a device can’t detect it, try disabling any Mesh or OneMesh settings (if using extenders) and make sure the router isn’t in a special mode like AP mode that might disable Wi-Fi. Always save and reboot if settings don’t apply immediately.

Netgear Routers (Nighthawk series, etc.)

Default Login: Access via http://routerlogin.net or IP 192.168.1.1 (some models use 192.168.0.1)genuinemodules.com. Username: admin; Default password: password (for many Netgear routers)genuinemodules.com. (If “admin/password” doesn’t work, some models used “admin/1234” or have been changed by the user)genuinemodules.com. Netgear will often prompt to change the password on first use, so use your custom admin password if you set onekb.netgear.com.

Steps to Enable 2.4GHz:

  1. Log in to the Netgear router’s web interface (called Netgear Genie or Nighthawk UI on newer models).
  2. Go to the Wireless Settings section. On the basic home page, there may be a Wireless or Advanced > Setup > Wireless Settings menukb.netgear.com.
  3. Netgear routers have toggles for each band. Scroll to the 2.4 GHz section (often labeled “2.4 GHz (b/g/n)”). Ensure the checkbox “Enable Wireless Router Radio” is checked for the 2.4 GHz bandkb.netgear.com. This checkbox being selected means the 2.4 GHz radio is on (if you clear it, that turns off the 2.4 GHz radio)kb.netgear.com. Also verify “Enable SSID Broadcast” is enabled for 2.4 GHz so the network is visible (Netgear usually has this as a separate checkbox).
  4. If there is a setting for Wireless Mode or Mode (Up to 54Mbps, Up to 289Mbps, etc.), choose a mixed mode that supports all your devices (usually the default “Up to 300Mbps” or “Up to 600Mbps” includes b/g/n). This ensures older 2.4 GHz devices can connect.
  5. Click Apply to save the settingskb.netgear.com. The router will update the configuration.
  6. Your 2.4 GHz network should now be active. Netgear by default uses different SSIDs for 2.4 and 5 (e.g., “Netgear123” and “Netgear123-5G”). If you had turned on a feature called Smart Connect (some newer Nighthawk models have this to use one SSID for both bands), consider disabling it if you need to force a device onto 2.4 GHz – when Smart Connect is off, you can name the bands separately and connect to the 2.4 GHz explicitlyjustanswer.comjustanswer.com.

Notes: If you still don’t see a 2.4 GHz signal, ensure the WiFi On/Off physical button (if your router has one) hasn’t been accidentally toggled – some Netgear units have an LED or button to turn Wi-Fi on/off. Also, some Netgear firmware have an option under Advanced to disable SSID broadcast; make sure that’s unchecked if you want the network visible. Netgear’s interface might hide advanced options under an Advanced tab, where you’ll find the radio enable/disable. By default, the wireless radios are on out of the boxkb.netgear.com, so if 2.4 GHz isn’t showing, someone may have turned it off previously. Lastly, keep the firmware updated – occasionally, outdated firmware can cause the 2.4 GHz band to malfunction or turn off; updating it can fix known issuesreddit.com.

ASUS Routers (RT-AC/AX series, ASUSWRT)

Default Login: IP 192.168.1.1. Username: admin; Password: admin (most ASUS routers use admin/admin by default)support.linksys.com. If that doesn’t work, you may have changed the password or the router asked you to set one at first setup (in which case use that). The ASUS interface is often referred to as ASUSWRT.

Steps to Enable 2.4GHz:

  1. Log in to the ASUS router web GUI at 192.168.1.1 with admin/admin (or your set credentials)support.linksys.com.
  2. In the interface, go to the Wireless section (usually found in the left sidebar under Advanced Settings). ASUS will present tabs for General, WPS, WDS, Professional, etc.
  3. On the General tab, there may be a band selector if it’s dual-band. Select 2.4GHz from the band dropdown if applicable. Ensure that the Enable Wireless (or Enable Radio) setting is turned On for the 2.4 GHz band. In ASUSWRT, the Professional tab allows enabling/disabling the radio: select 2.4GHz band on that page and verify “Enable Radio” = Yes (it should be “Yes” to broadcast Wi-Fi)support.linksys.com. If it was set to “No” (disabled), change it to Yes and click Applysupport.linksys.com.
  4. Still on the Wireless > General settings, check that the 2.4 GHz SSID is not hidden (there’s an option “Hide SSID” – make sure it’s Disabled so the name is broadcast). Also, ensure the Wireless mode is on a compatible setting (e.g., Auto or “Legacy” which includes b/g/n). If you set it to “N only”, older 802.11b/g devices won’t connect, so Auto/Mixed is recommended for 2.4 GHz.
  5. Click Apply to save changes if you made any. The router will briefly restart the wireless service.
  6. After this, the 2.4 GHz network should be up. By default, ASUS uses separate SSIDs (often the same name with a “_5G” suffix for 5 GHz). If you had Smart Connect enabled (ASUS’s band steering feature), disabling it will allow you to control 2.4 GHz separately. On ASUSWRT, Smart Connect can be turned off under Wireless > General by unchecking “Enable Smart Connect”, after which you can set different SSIDs for 2.4 and 5 GHz. If Smart Connect remains on, the router will use one SSID for both bands and automatically steer – in that case, you cannot manually connect to “just 2.4” (the router decides). For troubleshooting IoT devices, it’s often easier to turn off Smart Connect temporarily.

Notes: ASUS routers often have a LED indicator for the 2.4 GHz radio – ensure it’s lit. If it’s off, the radio might be disabled via software or a physical WiFi on/off button (some models have a button on the chassis to toggle WiFi). Using the web GUI as above is the sure way to re-enable it. Also note that on ASUS, if you use the Mobile App, there are quick toggles for WiFi which could disable a band. Double-check in the web interface if something seems off. By default, ASUS ships with both 2.4 and 5 GHz on, so if 2.4 GHz was not working, it may have been manually turned off or scheduled off – check Wireless > Professional for any Wi-Fi scheduler settings (make sure no schedule is disabling the 2.4 GHz at certain times)asus.com. Keep the firmware updated, as ASUS periodically fixes Wi-Fi stability issues in updates.

Linksys Routers (Max-Stream, WRT, EA series, etc.)

Default Login: IP 192.168.1.1. Username: many Linksys routers use a blank username and admin as the password, or admin/adminlifewire.com. For newer “Intelligent Mesh” routers (and Velop systems), the setup is often via the Linksys app – but they still have a web interface using the router’s password (which might be “admin” by default on older firmware)support.linksys.com. Check your model: in most cases, try user admin, pass admin, or user (blank), pass admin. Refer to the device’s manual or bottom label for defaults if these don’t work.

Steps to Enable 2.4GHz:

  1. Log in to the Linksys router’s web interface at 192.168.1.1. If it’s a Smart Wi-Fi router and you haven’t disabled remote management, you might be prompted to log in with your Linksys cloud account – you can instead choose local access and use the router password.
  2. Once in the admin interface, go to the Wireless Settings or Wi-Fi Settings section. On classic firmware, you’ll see options for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi (often on the same page or under different sub-tabs). On newer Linksys Smart Wi-Fi, click on Wi-Fi Settings, and you might see a section for Network Name (SSID) and password for each band if they are splitsupport.linksys.comsupport.linksys.com.
  3. If the router is dual-band and using one SSID for both (band steering), you may need to disable band steering to directly manage the 2.4 GHz. For example, certain Linksys Max-Stream routers have a “Band Steering” option (on tri-band models, it’s under Wi-Fi Settings) – the default might be All Band Steering (one name for all bands)support.linksys.com. You can set this to Off to create separate names for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHzsupport.linksys.com. When band steering is off, ensure the 2.4 GHz network is enabled: there should be an option for “Broadcast SSID” – keep it Enabled (if it was disabled, that hides the network). Also make sure the 2.4 GHz SSID field is filled (not empty) and a security mode is set (WPA2/WPA3).
  4. On older Linksys interfaces, check Wireless > Basic Wireless Settings: set it to “Manual” configuration if there’s a setup wizard. You should see “Wireless Network Mode”, “Network Name (SSID)”, “Channel”, etc for 2.4 GHz. Make sure Wireless Network Mode is not “Disabled” (set it to Mixed or the appropriate mode) – if it was disabled, that turns the radio off. Ensure SSID Broadcast is Enabled (there might be a checkbox for “Enable SSID Broadcast”). Click Save to apply changes. Then do the same for the 5 GHz section if needed.
  5. Save or Apply Settings. The Linksys router will update its configuration. After this, the 2.4 GHz network should be active and visible. If you created a separate name for it, connect your devices to that SSID. If you left band steering on, the router will broadcast one name but will include 2.4 GHz – in that case you may not “see” a distinct 2.4 GHz name, but the band is still there. (To verify, you could temporarily turn off the 5 GHz radio via settings or give 5 GHz a different name to check the 2.4 GHz signal.)
  6. Unique case – Velop mesh systems: Velop and some mesh routers force band steering always on (single SSID for 2.4/5). In those systems, you cannot separately enable/disable 2.4 GHz via the interface easily. However, 2.4 GHz is always on unless the node is using wired backhaul only. For Velop, the best approach is to use the app’s feature to “temporarily turn off 5 GHz” (in some Linksys firmware there is a “Disable 5GHz for 15 minutes” to connect IoT devices). If your Linksys router UI doesn’t expose separate band settings, consult its support docs for adding 2.4 GHz smart devices (they often recommend such workarounds).

Notes: Most Linksys routers default to broadcasting both bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) out of the box. Unless someone turned off the 2.4 GHz in settings, it will be on. If it’s not working, band steering could be the culprit for setup – some smart devices require your phone to be on a 2.4 GHz connection during setup. In that case, temporarily give the bands different names or shut off the 5 GHz as a workaroundreddit.comreddit.com. Linksys Smart Wi-Fi firmware often has a “Channel” setting; if a device can’t see the 2.4 GHz network, try setting the channel to 1, 6, or 11 manually (and ensure the region is correct)community.tp-link.com. Also check if Wireless Security is set to WPA2 Personal (some devices won’t connect if the router is set to WPA3-only or WEP). Finally, some Linksys routers have a physical Wi-Fi on/off button (e.g., older WRT series) – verify that Wi-Fi hasn’t been turned off by a button (if the Wi-Fi LED is off, press the button to toggle it). Typically, though, Linksys uses the software switch via the interface or app.

D-Link Routers (DIR series and others)

Default Login: IP 192.168.0.1 (most D-Link routers use 192.168.0.1). Username: admin; Password: (blank) (no password by default)lazyadmin.nlsupport.linksys.com. On newer D-Link models or those managed via the D-Link Wi-Fi app, the admin password might be set during setup, but older units default to blank. If admin/blank doesn’t work, check the router’s label or documentation.

Steps to Enable 2.4GHz:

  1. Log in to the D-Link router’s web interface at 192.168.0.1 (or use http://dlinkrouter.local on some). Use admin for username and leave the password empty (or enter the device’s admin password if it was changed)support.linksys.com.
  2. D-Link’s interface often starts with a setup wizard. Exit/skip any wizard to get to the main configuration pages. Go to the Wireless section. If there’s a Basic or Setup tab, choose Wireless Settings. On some D-Links you might need to click “Manual Wireless Network Setup” to see all optionslazyadmin.nl.
  3. Find the 2.4 GHz wireless settings. D-Link usually lets you configure 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz separately on one page (for dual-band models). There should be a checkbox like “Enable Wireless” for the 2.4 GHz band. Ensure this is checked (enabled). If it was unchecked, the 2.4 GHz was off – check it to turn it onsupport.linksys.com. Do the same for 5 GHz if needed (the interface might have separate sections for “2.4GHz Wireless” and “5GHz Wireless”, each with an Enable box).
  4. Verify the Network Name (SSID) for 2.4 GHz is set to your desired name, and SSID Visibility/Broadcast is enabled (D-Link calls it “Visible” in some firmware – make sure it’s not set to Invisible). Set the Wireless Mode to Mixed 802.11n/g/b (D-Link often has a dropdown; use mixed mode to support all device types)lazyadmin.nl. Choose Auto Channel or a fixed channel (1, 6, or 11) – if some devices can’t see the network, sometimes setting a specific channel helps (avoid channel 12/13, as North American devices may not support them).
  5. Check the Security Mode for 2.4 GHz (typically WPA2-Personal is recommended). If you have older devices that only support WPA or WEP, you may need to use a mixed WPA/WPA2 mode, but try to use WPA2 if possible for security. Ensure you have a Wireless Password (Pre-Shared Key) set.
  6. Click Save Settings. The router may reboot or just apply changes. Once done, the 2.4 GHz network should be up and broadcasting.
  7. If your D-Link router has a feature like SmartConnect (some newer D-Links have SmartConnect to combine dual-band into one SSID), you’ll find that in wireless settings – you can disable it to manage 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz separately. When SmartConnect is off, you’ll be able to see the 2.4 GHz SSID settings as described. When it’s on, the router usually decides band usage automatically and may not show a separate 2.4 GHz SSID (making it hard to connect a specific band). For troubleshooting, it’s recommended to turn SmartConnect off if it’s preventing 2.4 GHz device setupreddit.com.

Notes: D-Link’s admin pages vary by model (older ones are blue-themed, newer ones have a different UI). On some, the Wireless section will have multiple sub-pages (e.g., one for configuration, one for security). Always ensure “Enable Wireless” is checked on the config page for 2.4 GHzsupport.linksys.com. One quirk: if you change the wireless settings while on Wi-Fi, you might disconnect if you altered the SSID or password. It’s best to do this over a wired connection or be prepared to reconnect to the new SSID. By default, D-Link routers broadcast 2.4 GHz with a name like “dlink”. If you don’t see any “dlink” SSID, either it was renamed or the wireless is off. A quick factory reset will re-enable it (as wireless is on by default). Also, some D-Link routers support 2.4 GHz only (older models) – if you have one of those, it obviously only has 2.4 GHz, and you just need to ensure it’s on (the above steps apply, but there will be no 5 GHz section). For dual-band models, keep an eye on WPS – sometimes using WPS can inadvertently disable the wireless if it’s glitching; if issues arise, try disabling WPS (as per security recommendation)lazyadmin.nl and see if the 2.4 GHz stays stable.

Troubleshooting 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Issues

If you’ve enabled the 2.4 GHz band following the steps above but your devices still can’t see or connect to it, consider these troubleshooting tips:

  • SSID Visibility: Ensure the 2.4 GHz SSID is not hidden. In all router interfaces, there is an option to broadcast or hide the network name. Make sure “Broadcast SSID” or “Enable SSID Broadcast” is enabled for 2.4 GHztp-link.com. If the SSID is hidden, devices will not see it in the Wi-Fi list (you’d have to connect via manual SSID entry which is not ideal for initial setup).
  • Channel Settings: Some devices have regional restrictions and might not support certain Wi-Fi channels. For instance, many North American devices only recognize channels 1–11 on 2.4 GHz. If your router is set to “Auto” and picks channel 12 or 13, a device might not see it. Try manually setting the 2.4 GHz channel to 1, 6, or 11 (these are common standard channels)community.tp-link.com. Also set channel width to 20 MHz if you suspect compatibility issues – a width of 40 MHz (if the router uses it) can sometimes cause issues with older or cheaper Wi-Fi adapters; 20 MHz is more universally compatiblesuperuser.com.
  • Wireless Mode Compatibility: Verify that the router’s 2.4 GHz mode includes legacy support. If you accidentally set it to “N-only” or “G/N” mode, older 802.11b devices (or some 2.4 GHz smart plugs that use old chipsets) won’t connect. Use Mixed b/g/n mode on 2.4 GHzlazyadmin.nl so all device types can connect. Similarly, some very old 802.11b devices might not work if the router is set to only allow WPA2/AES – they might require WEP or WPA (which is insecure and not recommended). It’s better to upgrade such devices, but if necessary, you could enable a guest network on 2.4 GHz with a weaker security just for them. Generally, WPA2-Personal (AES) is the best balance of security and compatibility (almost all devices from the last 15 years support it). Avoid WPA3-only mode for now if you have IoT devices – many IoT gadgets as of 2026 don’t support WPA3 and will fail to connect until you set the router to WPA2/WPA3 mixed or WPA2-onlyreddit.com.
  • Band Steering and Mesh Systems: If you use band steering (one SSID for dual-band) or a mesh Wi-Fi system, and your 2.4 GHz device won’t connect, the issue might be that the device or its setup app is getting “confused” by the combined network. Temporarily disable band steering: e.g., in your router settings, give the 5 GHz a different name or turn off the 5 GHz radio for a short time. This forces your phone and the device to connect over 2.4 GHz during setupreddit.comreddit.com. After the device is set up, you can re-enable 5 GHz or band steering – the device should remain on the 2.4 GHz network. Some mesh systems (like Linksys Velop) have an option to turn off 5 GHz for 15 minutes specifically for this reasonreddit.comreddit.com.
  • Distance and Interference: Remember that 2.4 GHz has better range than 5 GHz, but it’s also crowded. If you still don’t see the 2.4 GHz SSID on a device, ensure you are not too close to the router (in rare cases, some devices’ radios might overload when extremely close) and not too far either. Also check for interference – microwave ovens, cordless phones, baby monitors, etc., can disrupt 2.4 GHz. Changing the channel as mentioned can help avoid interference from neighboring networks. If your router has an auto channel feature that isn’t picking a clear channel, manually set one that seems least congested (you can use a Wi-Fi analyzer app to see which channels are busiest).
  • Power Cycle & Firmware: If things should be working (settings are correct) but you still experience no connectivity on 2.4 GHz, try a reboot of the router. Power it off for 30 seconds, then turn it back on. Sometimes the 2.4 GHz radio can crash or stall, and a reboot clears it. Also consider updating the router’s firmware to the latest versionreddit.com. Many firmware updates fix issues like unstable wireless radios. Check the manufacturer’s support site for your model. On ISP routers, you might need to contact the ISP or trigger an update via their app or a hidden interface.
  • Factory Reset as Last Resort: If you suspect a configuration bug, you can factory reset the router (note this will wipe all custom settings). After reset, the 2.4 GHz will be on by default in almost all routers. You can then configure Wi-Fi from scratch, or in the case of ISP gateways, use the default Wi-Fi credentials printed on them.
  • Device-specific Tips: Some smart home devices (like certain smart bulbs or plugs) require your phone to be on a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi during setup. Ensure your smartphone or configuring device is indeed connected to the 2.4 GHz network (not cellular data or a 5 GHz network) when setting up those devices. If your phone auto-connects to 5 GHz, use the trick above to temporarily disable 5 GHz or create a dedicated 2.4 GHz guest network for setup. After setup, the device will typically work even if your phone switches back to 5 GHz, because the device itself stays on 2.4.
  • Multiple Access Points/Extenders: If you have a Wi-Fi extender or a second router, ensure it’s also configured properly for 2.4 GHz. Sometimes the main router might be fine, but an extender could be causing issues (e.g., if the extender uses the same SSID it might confuse devices). Try turning off extenders to see if the device can connect directly to the main router’s 2.4 GHz. Then reintroduce other network devices one by one.

By following this guide and the troubleshooting tips, you should be able to get the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi band up and running on the most common routers. This will allow older or 2.4 GHz-only devices in your home (smart thermostats, plugs, printers, etc.) to connect reliably. Always refer to your router’s manual for model-specific details, and happy surfing on 2.4 GHz!

Sources:

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