Methods, systems, and devices for wireless communications are described. A controller of a reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) may transmit a capability message indicating a capability of one or more configurable elements of the RIS to direct incoming signals in one or more directions for one or more frequency bands. For example, the configurable elements may have an ability to act as transparent to the signal, to direct the signal in an interference safe direction or frequency, and/or to diffuse the signal across multiple directions or frequencies. The controller of the RIS may control the one or more configurable elements in accordance with the capability message and an activity status of the RIS to direct a signal to at least one direction. In some cases, a network entity may transmit an indication of the at least one direction to the RIS controller.