Determining the operating frequency band of a wireless network connection is a process used to ascertain whether the Wi-Fi signal is transmitting on the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz band. This information is valuable because these bands offer different performance characteristics. For instance, a user might want to know if their device is connected to the 5 GHz band to take advantage of its faster speeds and reduced interference, or to the 2.4 GHz band for its longer range.
Knowing the Wi-Fi frequency band in use provides insight into network performance. The 5 GHz band generally offers higher data transfer rates and is less susceptible to interference from other devices, but it has a shorter range. The 2.4 GHz band provides a longer range but is more prone to interference from devices like microwaves and Bluetooth devices. Historically, only the 2.4 GHz band was available, but the introduction of the 5 GHz band has improved Wi-Fi performance in many scenarios.