The next evolution in WiFi technology has finally arrived, and it could mean big things for your business.
Faster than cabled network solutions, WiFi 6 has the potential to take your business to the next level with faster than ever wireless internet speeds. And with the increasing volume of users and devices reliant on WiFi, it’s crucial to invest in a WiFi solution that has the capacity to power your everyday business operations.
Want to know what WiFi 6 means for your business, school or organisation? Here’s everything you need to know.
What is WiFi 6?
WiFi 6 is the sixth generation of standard WiFi (version 802.11ax). It offers improved coverage and device performance, whilst providing speeds up to four times faster than WiFi 5 and with more capacity for homes and business environments alike.
Designed to improve people’s connectivity to the internet and one another, it is the next evolution in wireless internet technology. After its introduction to market in October 2018, WiFi 6 is rapidly changing the way users connect and is now featured across many devices including routers and smartphones.
While the end-user may be more interested in WiFi 6’s operational performance than its technological advancements, it is important to highlight just how far it’s come since its predecessor.
So, if we can get technical for a moment:
- WiFi 6 features a maximum data rate of 9.6 Gbps compared to WiFi 5’s 3.5 Gbps
- WiFi 6 self-optimises across both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands compared to WiFi 5 using the 5 GHz spectrum only
- WiFi 6 features MU-MIMO; multi-user, multiple-input and multiple-output technology
- WiFi 6 features Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA)
In a nutshell, not only does WiFi 6 improve the performance of networks but you are likely to experience up to 4x the capacity and data throughput on your own device(s).
WiFi’s generational evolution
It’s fair to say the WiFi Alliance’s labelling hasn’t been particularly user-friendly, especially when you consider version 802.11b came before 802.11a. But that’s all changed with the new generational labelling of WiFi:
- WiFi 6 is 802.11ax, released in 2019
- WiFi 5 is 802.11ac, released in 2014
- WiFi 4 is 802.11n, released in 2009
- WiFi 3 is 802.11g, released in 2003
- WiFi 2 is 802.11a, released in 1999
- WiFi 1 is 802.11b, released in 1999
Since billions of end-users are benefiting from WiFi solutions on their mobile devices, this change makes it much easier to identify your device’s WiFi capabilities going forward. Adapted from Intel, this infographic illustrates just how far WiFi has come since its 1999 inception:
How can WiFi 6 benefit my organisation?
Are you feeling the pain of long-established yet slow-performing cable network solutions?
Whether you’re a small business or larger establishment, it’s important to keep your staff and customers connected at all times. With most modern businesses now relying on internet connectivity across a range of devices to perform many critical tasks, fast and reliable internet connections are essential.
Compared to older technology, WiFi 6 operates better in dense environments and offers a higher performance across all devices, including laptops, tablets, phones, printers, wireless AV equipment and more. This allows multiple users to connect to the same WiFi network without reducing connection speeds.
All of this means your business, school or organisation can operate more efficiently by maintaining a high level of productivity.
How KBR can help
For many businesses, the limitations of long-standing cabled network solutions are starting to surface. Therefore, with the arrival of WiFi 6, now is the time to start thinking about upgrading to a better internet management solution.
With over 35 years of experience providing digital network solutions across all sectors, KBR are trusted experts when it comes to internet connectivity for businesses, educational establishments and other organisations. So, if you’re looking for a wireless internet solution or simply want some advice, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
