Wi-Fi 6, technically known as 802.11ax, marks the latest evolution in Wi-Fi standards, delivering substantial upgrades over the current 802.11ac (now rebranded as Wi-Fi 5). The Wi-Fi Alliance, the authority on Wi-Fi certification and implementation, is streamlining nomenclature to make it more user-friendly—from complex 802.11 labels to simple generational numbers like Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6.
Summary | Benefits of Wi-Fi 6 | How does it work? | Beyond the hardware | When will I see it?
In your home, Wi-Fi 6 ensures all devices perform optimally, even under heavy simultaneous use. For example, 4K video streaming on one device won't compromise your online gaming on another.
Wi-Fi 6 also extends device battery life through Target Wake Time (TWT). This innovative feature allows the access point to schedule when devices sleep their Wi-Fi radio and wake for transmissions, minimizing power consumption and preserving battery.
Wi-Fi 6 divides wireless channels into numerous sub-channels via Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA), enabling access points to serve more devices concurrently. While Wi-Fi 5 used MU-MIMO for multi-device downlink communication, devices couldn't respond simultaneously. Wi-Fi 6 advances this with enhanced multi-user MIMO, supporting uplink responses at the same time for true bidirectional efficiency.
The Wi-Fi Alliance aims to extend branding beyond devices. Soon, your gadgets will display available networks with clear labels like "Wi-Fi 5" or "Wi-Fi 6," helping you select the fastest option effortlessly.
To minimize confusion, the Wi-Fi Alliance plans a phased rollout of Wi-Fi 6 and its new branding. Expect it on newer routers starting next year. While some products already incorporate Wi-Fi 6 features, full certification awaits final standardization—ideally, hold off on upgrades until then. Target availability for Wi-Fi 6 routers is the second half of 2019.
New Wi-Fi 6-certified devices will feature a dedicated logo, distinguishing them from prior generations. Representing major Wi-Fi manufacturers, the Alliance anticipates broad adoption, though not instantaneous, and lacks enforcement power over branding.
Important note: Wi-Fi 6 requires compatible client devices. A Wi-Fi 6 router won't benefit older gear, which will default to Wi-Fi 5 speeds.
Get ready—faster, more reliable wireless networking arrives in 2019!
