Wi-Fi 6 is the next-generation standard in WiFi technology by Wi-Fi Alliance. Wi-Fi 6 is the same Wi-Fi we’ve always used, just faster and more efficient.
Wi-Fi Versions
- Wi-Fi 4 is 802.11n (2009).
- Wi-Fi 5 is 802.11ac (2014)
- Wi-Fi 6 is the new version, also known as 802.11ax. (2019)
Why do we need Wi-Fi 6?
Demand
Wi-Fi 6 was built in response to the growing number of devices in the world. In addition to phones and computers, we now require access to VR equipment, video gaming systems, streaming 4K movies, etc. Therefore, a more robust, faster Wi-Fi is in demand.
Crowded Areas
Wi-Fi 6 is also better equipped to perform in crowded tech areas. For example, you may have noticed your Wi-Fi signal slows at concerts, amusement parks, convention centres, airports, sports stadiums, and other venues where everyone seems to be trying to connect.
With Wi-Fi 6, this won’t be an issue.
Target Wake Time
Wi-Fi 6 has also led to a new “target wake time” (TWT) which will allow Wi-Fi-enabled devices to have longer battery life as it can preserve energy.
‘When the access point is talking to a device (like your smartphone), it can tell the device exactly when to put its Wi-Fi radio to sleep and exactly when to wake it up to receive the next transmission. This will conserve power, as it means the Wi-Fi radio can spend more time in sleep mode. And that means longer battery life.” – @chrisbhoffman
How fast is Wi-Fi 6?
According to C-NET’s testing, Wi-Fi 6’s download speed with be roughly 1,000 faster than the current download speed.
Wi-Fi 6 Devices & Updating Networks
Companies are beginning to develop Wi-Fi 6 routers and devices such as Samsung’s Galaxy S 10, iPhone 11. However, these devices aren’t able to unlock their full capacity as internet providers across North America haven’t all made the update yet.
For example, most homes aren’t yet able to support Wi-Fi 6. So, even if you have an iPhone 11, you won’t be able to use the increased download speed until your home network is updated.
So, what’s the point then?
It’s important that the groundwork and foundation for Wi-Fi 6 compatibility is laid now, even if we can’t all use it, so that in the future, when updates have been made, everything works smoothly.
How can I tell if something is Wi-Fi 6 compatible?
If a device is up-to-date with Wi-Fi 6, it will have a symbol on the packaging indicating it is Wi-Fi 6 certification. Wi-Fi 6 certification began on September 16, 2019.
Contact CORE Cabling
Contact Core Cabling today to learn more about the future of Wi-Fi 6 and how you can prepare for the future.
