Implementations disclosed describe techniques to optimize performance of wireless networks having multi-band connectivity by steering devices connecting to the network to preferred frequency ranges. In an example embodiment, a method may comprise receiving, a first probe request from a client device at a first access point of the wireless network, establishing a first association between the first access point and the client device, the first access point operating at a first frequency range of the wireless network, receiving a second probe request from the client device at a second access point, the second access point operating at a second frequency range of the wireless network, sending a transition request over the first access point to instruct the client device to transition to the second access point, and establishing a second association between the second access point and the client device.