How to configure a dedicated SSID for legacy devices?

Zyxel_Nami

Situation:

In a modern network environment, there are often a variety of devices that need to connect to the internet. Some of these devices, particularly IoT devices or older "legacy" devices, may only be compatible with the 2.4GHz frequency band. This can present a challenge when setting up your network, as these devices may not be able to connect to the same SSID as your other devices that use the 5GHz band.

Background:

The 2.4GHz band is often used by legacy devices because it offers better range and penetration through walls and other obstacles. However, it is also slower and more prone to interference than the 5GHz band. To ensure that all devices can connect to the network without impacting the performance of each other, it can be beneficial to set up a dedicated SSID for these legacy devices.

Solution: Creating a dedicated SSID for 2.4GHz

1. Access the AP Profile settings: Configuration > Object > AP Profile > SSID > SSID List. Choose the Profile Name and click on to Edit button or double-click it. In this example, we choose "Wiz_SSID_1" Profile.
   The Profile Name is only for management purposes and won't be visible to WiFi clients.
   
2. In the SSID field, enter the SSID name for this profile, for example, Zyxel_24G. This is the name that will be visible on the network to WiFi clients.
   
3. Configure Security Profile: 
   1. In the Security Profile field, click the Edit button.
      
   2. Select your desired Security Mode from the drop-down list, and enter the password on the Pre-Shared Key field. Then, click OK.
      
4. Back to the SSID Profile, please remember to disable "802.11k/v Assisted Roaming" and click OK to save the settings.
   
5. Configure Radio Profile
   1. Double click on the Radio profile that is default configured for 2.4G Band at Configuration > Object > AP Profile > Radio.
      
   2. Click on "Show Advanced Settings" at the left top.
      Ensure that ‘Allow 802.11n/ac/ax stations only’ is disabled, then click OK.
      If this feature is enabled, it allows only 802.11n/ac/ax clients to connect, and reject 802.11a/b/g clients.
      
6. Go to Configure > Wireless, and choose AP Management.
   Enable SSID Profile "Wiz_SSID_1" on the Radio "Wiz_Radio_24G" only.