WiFi 6E: Advantages and Disadvantages

This page explores the pros and cons of WiFi 6E, providing a basic understanding of the technology. It outlines the benefits and drawbacks of WiFi 6E.

What is WiFi 6E?

Introduction:

WiFi 6E is an extension of the WiFi 6 standard (IEEE 802.11ax) that utilizes the 6 GHz frequency band. It aims to deliver faster speeds, improved performance, and significantly lower latency compared to traditional WiFi 6. It also supports more simultaneous connections and better network performance in crowded environments.

WiFi 6E operates in the 6 GHz band, spanning from 5925 MHz to 7125 MHz, encompassing a total bandwidth of 1200 MHz.

The number of channels used by WiFi 6E varies depending on the bandwidth:

• 59 channels in 20 MHz BW
• 29 channels in 40 MHz BW
• 14 channels in 80 MHz BW
• 7 channels in 160 MHz BW

Like WiFi 6, WiFi 6E has many applications, including:

• HD video streaming (4K, 8K)
• VR (Virtual Reality)
• Mobile gaming
• WiFi Calling with low latency
• IoT (Internet of Things)
• High-speed tethering for data transfer
• WiFi kiosks
• Whole-home Gigabit coverage
• Cellular data offloading

Benefits or Advantages of WiFi 6E

Here’s a look at the advantages of using WiFi 6E:

• Gigabit Speeds: WiFi 6E offers speeds in the Gigabit range. It supports up to 1.2 GHz of additional WiFi spectrum in the 6 GHz band, making speeds up to 2 Gbps achievable on mobile devices.
• Extremely Low Latency: Experience latency of less than 1 ms.
• Higher Capacity: WiFi 6E supports a greater number of users compared to traditional WiFi due to its increased capacity.
• Less Interference: The 6 GHz frequency spectrum is less congested and experiences less interference from common household wireless devices.
• Wider Channels: Supports wider channels in 80 MHz and 160 MHz bandwidths.
• Extended WiFi Usage: Extends the usage of traditional WiFi into the 6 GHz frequency band, providing more contiguous spectrum for use.

Drawbacks or Disadvantages of WiFi 6E

Despite its advantages, WiFi 6E also has some drawbacks:

• No Legacy Device Support in 6 GHz: Older devices that do not support WiFi 6E cannot operate in the 6 GHz band. However, these devices can still connect using the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.
• Shorter Range: The 6 GHz band has the shortest range compared to the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.