FortiAP

 

Band steering

Band steering is a wireless networking feature that encourages dual-band capable clients to connect to the 5 GHz band instead of the 2.4 GHz band.

⚙️ How Band Steering Works

When a dual-band client tries to associate, the AP:

1. Suppresses or delays the probe response on 2.4 GHz
2. Responds normally on 5 GHz
3. The client, seeing a stronger/faster response on 5 GHz, connects there instead

The AP essentially "steers" the client toward the better band without the user doing anything.

Why TX Power Balance Matters for Band Steering

This ties directly back to your earlier question — if 2.4 GHz TX power is too high, the 2.4 GHz signal will appear stronger to clients than the 5 GHz signal, and band steering will fail because clients will stubbornly stick to 2.4 GHz.

That's why Fortinet recommends keeping 2.4 GHz power lower (4–7 dBm) and 5 GHz higher (12–20 dBm) — it makes 5 GHz the more attractive option.