How do I use Wi-Fi tethering in the 5GHz band on my Xperia smartphone?

IMPORTANT: This article applies only to specific products and/or operating systems. Check Applicable Products and Categories for details.

How to use Wi-Fi tethering in the 5 GHz band

Android 12 or 13

1. Find and tap Setting → Network and Internet → Hotspot and tethering → Portable hotspot.
2. Tap the slider beside Use 2.4 GHz only turn OFF (grey).

Android 11

1. Find and tap Setting → Network and Internet → Hotspot and tethering → Portable hotspot.
2. Tap AP band and select 5 GHz band preferred.
3. Tap the slider on the top and turn it ON (blue).

NOTES:

• 5GHz Tethering support may vary by country/region.
• Immediately after starting Wi-Fi tethering, you can't connect from the client device for up to 3 minutes. That's because the presence of radar in the 5 GHz band is being checked in your area (e.g. proximity sensors/radar present in vehicles). Please wait until the "5 GHz portable hotspot is available" notification is displayed before you connect.
• If radar is detected in the 5 GHz band during Wi-Fi tethering, the communication between the client devices will be disconnected. However, the client devices will automatically reconnect after a while.

Why is Wi-Fi tethering automatically changing from 5 GHz to 2.4 GHz? 

"5 GHz band preferred" Wi-Fi tethering operates in the 5 GHz band if there is a frequency that can be used in the 5 GHz band. If the frequency in the 5 GHz band can't be used, Wi-Fi tethering operates in the 2.4 GHz band.