Clock Network Setup
Why Can't I Connect to the Network?
— Understanding Why 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Sometimes Fails
When using smart devices, many users encounter this issue:
The Wi-Fi password is correct, but the device just won’t connect.
This is especially common with 2.4GHz Wi-Fi.
This article explains the real reasons behind this issue — from Wi-Fi evolution and frequency compatibility to how modern routers manage connections.
1. What is 2.4GHz?
2.4GHz is a wireless frequency widely used in communication protocols like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and wireless peripherals.
Its advantages include:
- 📶 Wider coverage and better wall penetration
- 🔋 Lower power consumption
- 🔄 High compatibility with older devices
That's why many smart devices (including smart plugs, lights, sensors — and our VFD clocks) still use 2.4GHz Wi-Fi to ensure stable and universal connectivity.
2. Why Can't I Connect to 2.4GHz?
Even if your device supports 2.4GHz, there are still common reasons for connection failures:
1. The router's 2.4GHz band is turned off
Newer Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 7 routers often prioritize 5GHz or 6GHz for faster speeds.
Sometimes 2.4GHz is disabled by default and users don't realize it.
2. "Smart Merge" confuses the device
Modern routers often use dual-band merging, giving 2.4GHz and 5GHz the same SSID.
Since our clocks only support 2.4GHz, they might mistakenly try to connect to 5GHz and fail.
3. Protocol mismatch with new routers
Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) use newer technologies (like WPA3 encryption, OFDMA, MU-MIMO).
Devices using chips like ESP8266/ESP32 may struggle to complete the handshake process, leading to connection drops.
3. Wi-Fi Versions & Compatibility
| Version | Standard | Frequencies | Compatibility with Older Devices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi 4 | 802.11n | 2.4GHz / 5GHz | ✅ High compatibility |
| Wi-Fi 5 | 802.11ac | 5GHz only | ⚠️ No 2.4GHz support |
| Wi-Fi 6 | 802.11ax | 2.4GHz / 5GHz | ✅ May require custom settings |
| Wi-Fi 7 | 802.11be | 2.4 / 5 / 6GHz | ✅ Depends on implementation |
Even though Wi-Fi 6/7 support 2.4GHz, the compatibility mode is often disabled or WPA3-only security causes handshake failures.
4. Why 2.4GHz Is Still Widely Used
Despite its slower speed compared to 5GHz or 6GHz, 2.4GHz remains the most trusted standard in IoT:
- ✅ Better wall penetration and range
- ✅ Universally supported
- ✅ Mature, stable, and low-cost
This is why we continue using 2.4GHz Wi-Fi chips in our VFD clocks — for maximum user compatibility.
Our Major Upgrade:
Web Interface Optimization & Smarter Wi-Fi Setup
To solve these connectivity issues, we're upgrading our network configuration system and optimizing the web interface. Currently in the final testing phase, our goal is simple:
💡 Let users connect effortlessly — without adjusting their router settings.
A. Auto Configuration Mode: Plug and Play
We've revamped the default setup experience — now featuring automatic time sync via NTP:
- Connect to Wi-Fi
- Clock fetches time via NTP
- Time zone is detected automatically
Ideal for most users with zero configuration needed.
B. Advanced Setup Mode: Full Control
For users who prefer fine-tuning, we now support:
- Manual time zone selection
- Custom NTP server input
- Optional DST (Daylight Saving Time) toggle
C. Offline Mode: Works Without Wi-Fi
Understanding that not all networks are compatible, we've added Offline Configuration Mode:
- Disconnect Wi-Fi and manually input time and date
- Clock continues to function perfectly without internet
- Perfect for offices, restricted networks, or environments without Wi-Fi.
