Introducing the next version of Wi-Fi, 802.11ax …. simply known as Wi-Fi 6. The Wi-Fi Alliance trade group is changing the naming system and will now assign a number to each protocol. Higher numbers correspond to newer technology and hopefully also mean better performance.
• Wi-Fi 6 = 802.11ax technology
• Wi-Fi 5 = 802.11ac technology
• Wi-Fi 4 = 802.11n technology
Earlier standards (802.11 a, b and g devices) are too old to be included in the Wi-Fi Alliance’s numerical ratings. That being said, Wi-Fi 6 will still work with Wi-Fi 4 and Wi-Fi 5 devices, but work best and deliver faster speeds with Wi-Fi 6 equipment. The group anticipates to start certifying Wi-Fi 6 routers in the second half of 2019.
The new naming approach is aimed at helping consumers easily identify that their devices support the latest Wi-Fi generation. Manufacturers will be able to incorporate numbering protocols in User Interface (UI) visuals to identify the current Wi-Fi connection. (See image example below from the Wi-Fi Alliance)
So what can we expect from Wi-Fi 6? Each generation of Wi-Fi technologies offer new features – faster speeds, increased throughput, and better experiences. Key benefits of Wi-Fi 6 are increased capacity, higher data rates, better performance in dense environments and improved powered efficiency. Wi-Fi 6 is expected to enhance the performance of smart home environments and extend battery-powered devices life through Target Wake Time (TWT). Another change is the use of 1024-QAM broadcasting over up to eight data streams for peak gigabit speeds.
While the terminology doesn’t have to be used in any regulatory sense, the Wi-Fi Alliance does expect it to be widely adopted and easier to understand for both consumers and manufacturers.
For information on Wi-Fi type approval certification and for all your regulatory compliance needs, please contact us at iCertifi.