Network Switches 103- GHz explained

Discover the role of GHz in computer processors and networking devices. Learn about the importance of GHz in device performance and how to choose the right GHz.

We have previously explained THE TYPES OF SWITCHES and THE KEY FEATURES OF SWITCHES. In this article, we are diving deep into one feature that will always come up: GHz.

GHz is quite a common term in information technology and is often heard in computer and networking-related terminologies. Even non-tech geeks hear this term quite frequently. Let's go over what GHz is.

Gigahertz or GHz is a unit of frequency measurement used to measure clock cycle frequency, also known as the clock rate or clock speed in computer processors. GHz or Gigahertz is composed of two words: Giga and hertz. Hertz means "times per second," while Giga means a billion (1,000,000,000) or a thousand million.

How does GHz relate to networking and devices?

We know all network switches and firewalls have dedicated processors to process, forward, allow, and deny traffic and other instructions. So, we can assume that GHz refers to the performance metrics of routers, switches, and firewalls in computer networking. 

The given or defined GHz capability of these devices ensures:

· The processor's threshold values

· The amount of requests or traffic it can process per second

· How fast and capable the device is in delivering results

A higher GHz processor will process a higher number of instructions and processes in one clock cycle. Therefore, devices having high GHz processors will generally deliver powerful performance and CPU optimization compared to low GHz processes. 

For example, a 10GHz processor will complete a 10 billion clock cycle per second, whereas a 5 GHz can only make up to 5 billion per second. So, the higher the GHz, the greater the processing capability and performance.

Let's understand it with real-time operating systems. All of us have heard about 32-bit and 64-bit operating systems. If not, check your laptop/PC properties right away. For instance, a 32-bit processor can work on 32 bits at a given time, while a 64-bit processor can work on 64 bits at a time. Because each number of clock beats/cycles in a processor has an opportunity to work on or manipulate several bits to its equivalent sheer capacity.

When to consider or notice GHz?

You may be on your journey to buy a PC, Laptop, switch, router, or firewall. Always consider the processor speed or GHz capacity as the key and critical deciding factor. Taking into account GHz capacity will give you the best performance output.

Does a higher GHz value mean powerful performance?

A higher GHz processor can not always promise or give you the expected performance, as several conditions are involved. 

The performance depends on:

· The type of application used

· The size of the instruction

· The packets

The days when a single processor could perform all the processing and provide faster results are long gone. Today's heavy bandwidth-consuming and distributed applications, programs, and systems require dedicated CPU cores to function, process, and produce the results at the desired speed in real-time. 

So, a higher GHz means excellent and powerful performance if you have a multi-core CPU or processor.

What about 2.4GHz and 5GHz terms used in wireless networks?

In wireless networks, the 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz are Wi-Fi frequency bands used by various routers and access points to carry out the Wi-Fi signals across the environment.

Traditional Wi-Fi routers could only offer and support 2.4GHz bands, whereas modern routers and APs support both, and some also support 6GHz bands.

Choosing suitable Wi-Fi band routers and APs while designing wireless networks is vital to eliminate coverage issues, interferences, and intermittent Wi-Fi disconnections.

Choosing the right Wi-Fi frequency band offers reliable connection, better signal coverage, and smooth connectivity. 

The 2.4 GHz frequency band

The 2.4GHz frequency band was initially available in old Wi-Fi routers. These old routers' signals could penetrate thick walls and other obstacles. Therefore, that frequency could provide better network coverage and reliable connection. 

However, despite offering a better Wi-Fi range, it was relatively slow, and the signal quality was also not that good. The 2.4GHz bands were highly vulnerable to interference because most microwaves, fridges, and radios used the same 2.4GHz frequency bands. It provides a better range but with a poor data transmission rate.

It is advised that the router or AP shall be mounted/installed away from microwaves to obtain better signal quality. Other nearby routers using the 2.4GHz radio frequency band could also interrupt and affect the Wi-Fi signals.

Pros of 2.4 GHz

· Better and extended Wi-Fi range

· Reliable signal 

· Could penetrate through walls

· Can offer speed up to 100 Mbps

Cons of 2.4 GHz

· Low data rates

· Highly vulnerable to microwaves 

The 5 GHz frequency band

The 5GHz radio frequency band is enabled and is defaulted in all modern Wi-Fi routers and access points. It is relatively faster than the 2.4GHz band but has a lower range.

The 5GHz band broadcasts Wi-Fi signals at a higher frequency for speed, though it can not travel across thick walls and solid objects by penetrating them. This results in less Wi-Fi coverage.

The 5GHz band is less prone to interference that other 2.4GHz band routers and microwaves may cause. It uses standard Wi-Fi 5 technology with additional channels to offer higher speed and data transmission rates. Furthermore, a 5GHz band can support up to 1Gbps of speed.

Pros of 5 GHz

· Faster data transmission rate

· High-speed connection

· Less vulnerable to interference caused by other devices

Cons of 5 GHz

· Poor coverage

· Can not penetrate solid objects

Which one to use: 2.4GHz or 5GHz?

Although every Wi-Fi device these days comes with built-in 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands, the uses and performance depend on the environment type and user-specific requirements. 

If you want a fast and reliable connection without latency or interference in the wireless network, choose 5GHz over 2.4GHz Wi-Fi bands. 

But if speed is not a concern for you and range is, then go for a 2.4GHz frequency band configuration.