Chances are good that you are familiar with both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technologies. Bluetooth technology enables exchange of data between different devices over short distance. On the other hand, Wi-Fi is a technology that enables devices such as computers, smartphones and other equipment like printers to interface with the internet.
Both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi allow us to connect different devices without the need for wires. I’m pretty sure you may wonder if Bluetooth interferes with Wi-Fi. Well, in this article, we will examine if Bluetooth interferes with Wi-Fi and other signals. Keep on reading to find out more.
So, let’s get the TLDR out of the way:
Can Bluetooth interfere with Wi-Fi? Yes, Bluetooth can interfere with Wi-Fi? This is because they operate in the same frequency range. However, with recent improvements in Bluetooth technology, this interference is rare. Modern Wi-Fi routers operate at a higher frequency range minimizing the interference.
To deep dive into this answer a little more, let’s read on below…
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What Causes Interference with Bluetooth Headphones?
Bluetooth operates in the same frequency band with other wireless devices. As a result they share a limited amount of resources. When you have multiple Bluetooth and wireless devices in the same environment, they use the same electromagnetic spectrum. The interference is because of overlapping signals. To avoid interference, Bluetooth now uses a technology referred to as Spread-spectrum Frequency Hopping. This allows Bluetooth devices to switch between different frequencies to avoid interference with other wireless devices.
Does Bluetooth Use the Same Frequency as Wi-Fi?
Yes and no. Bluetooth only works on 2.4GHz. On the other hand, Wi-Fi works on three separate bands, 2.4GHz, 3.6 GHz and 5GHz. Modern Wi-Fi networks use the less congested 3.6GHz and 5GHz frequencies. As a result, there is reduced interference between Bluetooth and Wi-Fi devices.
Like Bluetooth, Wi Fi has its own techniques of preventing interference, especially in the 2.4GHz frequency band. Within the Wi-Fi frequency, there are other small frequencies known as channels. Wi-Fi networks switch channels when a particular channel becomes congested.
Does Bluetooth Devices Affect Wi-Fi Connection?
Although Bluetooth and Wi-Fi have mechanisms to curb interference, it still occurs. This is common in Wi-Fi networks based on the 2.4GHz frequency band. This is because Bluetooth operates at the same frequency. It is possible for signals to overlap. When signals overlap, it results in a poor network performance. If you are experiencing poor network strength because of interference, here’s what to do.
Signs of Wireless Interference
Any of the following symptoms could be a result of signal interference.
- The device doesn’t connect or stay connected
- The signal strength is low
- The connection is slow
- Bluetooth audio breaks, skips , cuts off or becomes static
- The pointer movement is jumpy or erratic
How to Deal With Frequency Interference
If you suspect that your Bluetooth or Wi-Fi signal is being interfered with, here’s a list of things to try.
1. Remove all Barriers
The Bluetooth signal is weak and can’t easily penetrate certain building material such as metal, concrete, plaster, marble, and brick. So, if you are experiencing signal interference, the first thing to do is to move your Bluetooth devices away from any material that may be restricting signal flow. Simply walking away from the vicinity may help solve the problem.
2. Change the Router Channel
As mentioned earlier, there are different Wi-Fi channels. If there is congestion, Wi-Fi routers can switch to a less congested channel to avoid interference. Changing the Wi-Fi channel is simple. You can restart your router or go to the setting menu and change it.
3. Move Closer to the Wi-Fi Source
Moving closer to the Wi-Fi signal also makes it less susceptible to interference because the signal strength will increase.
4. Get Away From Microwaves and Fluorescent Lighting
Both Microwaves and Fluorescent lighting emit radio waves in the 2.4GHz frequency band. This can cause interference. Avoid using your Bluetooth devices near such devices.
5. Troubleshoot Bluetooth
For Bluetooth to function optimally there are some simple best practices you need to follow. First, you need to know the range you are using. Bluetooth devices can only exchange data up to a maximum range of 33 feet. Using Bluetooth devices beyond this range can result in signal interference and drop –outs. The interference could also be because multiple Bluetooth devices are competing for bandwidth. Reduce the number of active Bluetooth devices in your environment to reduce interference. Covers and cases can also affect transmission. Remove your device cover or case for a seamless connection. If the problem persists, re-establish the pairing connection.
6. Ensure the Bluetooth Device You are Using is Fully Charged
Most Bluetooth devices like headsets and smartphones are completely wireless. They use battery power to transmit wireless signals. Low battery life could cause interference and drop –outs. Always make sure that your Bluetooth and Wi-Fi devices are fully charged.
Although the measures discussed above can help reduce signal interference, there are actually shouldn’t be necessary. This is because technology has advanced. Interference should no longer be a problem. If experiencing frequent interference, then there might be a problem with your Bluetooth device and you should seek help from a specialist.
7. Troubleshoot Wi-Fi
Other Wi-Fi devices and wireless routers are the main source of Wi-Fi interference. Most Old Wi-Fi routers operate on the 2.4GHz band. This frequency can easily be crowded. Newer Wi-Fi models operate on 3Ghz frequency band and 5GHz. These frequencies are less crowded and thus not easily disrupted. If your device supports a dual-band, switch to the higher frequencies because they are less crowded. If you are receiving weaker signals, you can also remedy the problem by relocating the router.
Differences Between Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
As already mentioned, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are different standards for wireless communication. Bluetooth is used to transfer data between two or more devices in close proximity and is more suited for low bandwidth applications like when listening to music using a Bluetooth headset. On the contrary, Wi-Fi is primarily used for internet connectivity.
The table below compares Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
| Bluetooth | Wi-Fi | |
| Frequency | 2.4 GHz | 2.4, 3.6 and 5 GHz |
| Cost | Low | High |
| Bandwidth | Bluetooth requires low bandwidth (800 kps) | Wi-Fi requires high bandwidth (11 Mbps) |
| Specification Authority | Bluetooth SIG | IEEE, WECA |
| Security | Less secure than Wi-Fi | Provides better security than Bluetooth |
| Year of Development | 1994 | 1991 |
| Primary Devices | Mobile Phones, Keyboards, Mouse, Activity Trackers, and Headphones | Smartphones, Notebook Computers, TV devices, Computer Networks |
| Hardware Requirement | Bluetooth adapter on all of the devices | Wireless adapter on all of the network devices, a wireless routers and a wireless access point |
| Range | Radio signal range is 5-30 meters | Range of 32 meters indoors and up to 95 meters outdoors. 2.5 GHz Wi-fi has a greater range than 5 GHz |
| Power Consumption | Low Power Consumption | High Power Consumption |
| Ease of Use | Simple to set-up and use. You can connect up to seven devices at the same time. | Setting up is more complex. It requires configuration of hardware and software. |
Advantages of Bluetooth
Bluetooth wireless technology has the following advantages.
- Setting up a Bluetooth connection is simple. You only need to pair two devices.
- Bluetooth has a wider range than infrared communication.
- It is free to use Bluetooth.
- There are multiple Bluetooth devices.
- You can use Bluetooth for both file and voice transfer
Disadvantages of Bluetooth
Here are some disadvantages of Bluetooth.
- Bluetooth connectivity is susceptible to interference because there are other wireless technologies that use the same radio frequency.
- Bluetooth’s bandwidth is lower than that of Wi-Fi
- Bluetooth only allows short range data transfer.
- Bluetooth is known to reduce battery life. However, the new Bluetooth Low energy technology doesn’t use, much battery.
Advantages of Wi-Fi
The advantages of Wi-Fi include:
- Unlike in wired connections, you can instantly connect to a Wi-Fi signal.
- Wi- FI networks serve any people as compared to Bluetooth. Besides, it is easy to add new users to a Wi-Fi network as compared to wired connections.
- Wi-Fi is less costly as compared to wired connections because there is no cost of installing and maintaining physical cables.
- It is easy to deploy and install a Wi-Fi access point as compared to a wired network. You don’t need to know which switch belongs where.
Disadvantages of Wi-Fi
- Interference: Material such as brick, plaster and metal can disrupt a Wi-Fi network. Besides, like any other frequency, a Wi-Fi network can be affected by factors beyond your control.
- Range: Wi-Fi has a limited range of about 100 meters. It is not ideal if you intend to use it in a wider area.
- Bandwidth: When you add more users to a Wi-Fi network, the connection gets weaker. You also experience less speed.
- Security: Public Wi-Fi networks are often susceptible to hackers and cyber-attacks. However, there are technologies such as encryption used to make it more secure.
Summary
Although Bluetooth can disrupt Wi-Fi signals, advancements technology try to minimize this interference. New Wi-Fi models operate at higher frequencies which ensure that there is little or no interference. If your Bluetooth devices frequently interfere with your Wi-Fi connection, then there might be a problem with your devices. Seek professional help for assistance.
I hope that you found this article informative. Keep it here for related articles.
