In the 2.4 GHz band, only channels 1, 6, and 11 are non-overlapping, meaning that they do not share any frequency spectrum with each other. This makes them the preferred channels for Wi-Fi networks to minimize interference with other devices that use the same band, such as Bluetooth, microwave ovens, cordless phones, etc. Using non-overlapping channels also allows for better performance and throughput, as devices on the same channel have to contend for the medium and avoid collisions. Channels 2 to 5 overlap with channel 1, channels 7 to 10 overlap with channel 6, and channels 12 and 13 overlap with channel 11. Channel 14 is not allowed in most countries and regions, and it also overlaps with channel 11. Therefore, using any of these channels would cause interference with the non-overlapping channels and degrade the network quality. The 2.4 GHz band has a total of 14 channels, each with a bandwidth of 22 MHz and a center frequency separated by 5 MHz. However, the actual frequency range used by each channel is wider than 22 MHz, as the signal spreads out due to modulation. This means that adjacent channels partially overlap with each other, and only channels that are 25 MHz apart or more are completely non-overlapping. The following table shows the center frequency and frequency range of each channel in the 2.4 GHz band:
Table
Channel
Center frequency (MHz)
Frequency range (MHz)
1
2412
2401-2423
2
2417
2406-2428
3
2422
2411-2433
4
2427
2416-2438
5
2432
2421-2443
6
2437
2426-2448
7
2442
2431-2453
8
2447
2436-2458
9
2452
2441-2463
10
2457
2446-2468
11
2462
2451-2473
12
2467
2456-2478
13
2472
2461-2483
14
2484
2473-2495
As shown in the table, only channels 1, 6, and 11 have a 25 MHz separation between their center frequencies, and therefore do not overlap with each other or any other channel. This makes them the best choice for Wi-Fi communications in the 2.4 GHz band. References:
Aruba Certified Network Technician (ACNT) | HPE Aruba Networking
Aruba Documentation Portal
List of WLAN channels - Wikipedia
Why Channels 1, 6 and 11? | MetaGeek
All about WiFi Channels & Frequency Bands – A simple Guide
WiFi Channels: Complete Guide with Tips to Boost Signal Performance
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