Wi-Fi 7, also known as IEEE 802.11be, is the next generation of Wi-Fi technology that promises significant improvements over its predecessors, Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Wi-Fi 6E.
Higher Throughput
Expected to offer a maximum data rate of up to 30 Gbps, this is nearly three times the maximum theoretical speed of Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E (which cap out at about 9.6 Gbps). This is achieved through more efficient use of the spectrum, higher order modulation (4096-QAM), and increased channel bandwidth.
Improved Latency
Wi-Fi 7 aims to further reduce latency, making it ideal for real-time applications like gaming, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR). This is achieved through enhanced Multi-Link Operation (MLO), which allows devices to transmit data across multiple bands (2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz) simultaneously, optimizing data paths and significantly reducing delays. The specification claims to support “near-zero latency” which would benefit wireless VR applications.
Wider Channels
Support for 320 MHz channel bandwidth, double that of Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E’s maximum of 160 MHz. This wider channel bandwidth enables more data to be transferred simultaneously, improving throughput and efficiency, especially in high-density environments.
Enhanced Multi-Link Operation (MLO)
While Wi-Fi 6E introduced the concept of operating across multiple bands, Wi-Fi 7 takes it further by improving the efficiency and reliability of Multi-Link Operation. This means devices can seamlessly manage multiple connections across different frequencies, improving the overall network performance and reliability.
Better Spectrum Efficiency
Introducing new technologies like Punctured Spectrum Usage and improved OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access), which allow for more efficient use of available spectrum. This is particularly beneficial in crowded or overlapping networks, ensuring smoother and more reliable connectivity.
Increased Device Capacity
With advancements in technology, Wi-Fi 7 is designed to handle more devices simultaneously. This is crucial as the number of IoT (Internet of Things) devices and smart home gadgets continue to grow, requiring networks to manage many connections without sacrificing performance.
Backward Compatibility
Like its predecessors, Wi-Fi 7 will be backward compatible with older Wi-Fi standards. However, it’s designed to maximize the performance and efficiency of the latest hardware, offering significant advantages when used with devices that support the new standard. So don’t expect your old devices to take advantage of all the latest features introduced by the new standard.
Enhanced Energy Efficiency
Wi-Fi 7 aims to be more energy-efficient than its predecessors, which is critical for battery-operated devices. This is achieved through more efficient data transmission methods and improved device sleep protocols, extending the battery life of mobile devices and IoT sensors. This is specially obvious when comparing it to standards like Zigbee or Z-Wave that are optimized for sleep time.
Conclusion and considerations
Overall, Wi-Fi 7 represents a significant leap forward in wireless networking technology, offering faster speeds, lower latency, and greater efficiency. It’s poised to enhance user experiences in data-intensive applications, support the growing demand for connected devices, and enable new possibilities in technology and communication. You will need to have both access points and devices that support this new standard in order to take full advantage of these benefits.