How Wi-Fi 7 is better than old standards and why we all need it

A world where you can download gigabytes of data in seconds without lag, with an unlimited number of connected devices, without affecting the speed and stability of the connection, simply does not exist. Technology has not yet reached the level of development that everything is so perfect. But the new wireless standard Wi-Fi 7 allows us to at least get closer to this. Let's talk about it in more detail.

How Wi-Fi 7 technology works

Wi-Fi 7 standardalso known as IEEE 802.11be, is the next generation of wireless communications after Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and 6E. It operates in the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz bands like previous generation protocols, but has a number of unique advantages:

• Increasing channel width From 160 MHz in Wi-Fi 6 to 320 MHz in Wi-Fi 7 will double the maximum throughput. This is achieved by combining multiple adjacent channels into one wide channel.

• MU-MIMO 16×16 technology Allows multiple data streams to be transmitted to multiple devices simultaneously. Wi-Fi 7 supports up to 16 spatial streams, which is 4 times more than Wi-Fi 6.

• Enhanced 4096-QAM modulation will enable the transmission of up to 12 bits of data per symbol. This is 20% more efficient than 1024-QAM in Wi-Fi 6. This results in increased spectral efficiency and higher speeds.

• Low Latency Mode allows you to prioritize ping-sensitive traffic such as VoIP, online gaming, and augmented reality applications. Routers with Wi-Fi 7 dynamically allocate the necessary bandwidth to them, thus ensuring the highest possible responsiveness.

Band Aggregation in Wi-Fi 7

But The main feature of Wi-Fi 7 is the Multi-Link Operation technology, which allows combine 2.4, 5 and 6 GHz frequencies. Many routers have long been able to connect ranges virtually, but in fact they offer only a single network name and automatic switching between frequencies. Wi-Fi 7 offers unification immediately at the standard level.

In other words, a common throughput channel is actually created on the basis of three frequencies. Thanks to it, compatible devices will be able to simultaneously use the advantages of all ranges at the same time.

What does combining ranges give:

1. Increased throughput: Using multiple bands simultaneously increases overall throughput, allowing you to transfer more data faster.

2. Reduced interference: The ability to switch between bands helps avoid interference and improve connection quality.

3. Increased reliability: If one band experiences problems, data can be transmitted over another band, providing a more stable connection.

4. Improved performance: For applications that require high bandwidth and low latency, such as virtual reality (VR) and high-definition video streaming, multi-channel operation provides smoother and faster data transfer.

Advantages and disadvantages of Wi-Fi 7 compared to previous standards

Despite its impressive specifications, Wi-Fi 7 has some peculiarities that need to be taken into account when implementing this technology.

Although routers with wifi 7 backward compatible with devices using older Wi-Fi standards, these devices will not be able to take full advantage of Wi-Fi 7. In order to work with the new standard, client equipment will require its support at the hardware level, which is typical for new generation gadgets and not typical for old ones. And although Wi-Fi 7 is backward compatible with previous standardscompatibility conflicts may occur when using devices with different Wi-Fi versions on the same network at the same time. Therefore, it is important to carefully plan the transition to the new standard.

But even if two-way compatibility is ensured, it is necessary to take into account that frequency aggregation requires free adjacent channels. In conditions of dense Wi-Fi network deployment, especially in the 2.4 and 5 GHz ranges, this is not always possible. After all, other data transmission protocols operate in these same ranges, which can simply clog the air.

Myself 6 GHz rangewhich is one of the key innovations in Wi-Fi 7, has a shorter signal range compared to traditional 2.4 GHz and even 5 GHz bands. Higher frequency signals are more susceptible to attenuation and have a worse time penetrating obstacles such as walls and ceilings. As a result, for full coverage in large rooms or multi-story buildings, it may be necessary to install additional access points or use mesh systems.

Cost of routers with Wi-Fi 7 support

The price issue is of primary importance for many potential buyers of Wi-Fi 7 routers. Oddly enough, the cost of the device will directly depend on its intended purpose. If we are talking about Xiaomi home routeryou will most likely be able to purchase it for around 5,000 rubles. It will have most of the advantages typical for gadgets of this type. However, such a device is clearly not suitable for commercial use.

If your goal is to provide coverage for a stadium, concert venue or an entire shopping mall, pay attention to ZYXEL NebulaFlex WBE660SWe had it on our channel review of this access point. This is a high-performance access point designed for use in high-load environments and has the following features:

• Total speed up to 22 Gbps

• Supports Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and earlier standards

• Smart antenna with effective co-channel interference suppression and beamforming technology

• 10Gbps WAN/LAN port perfectly unleashes the potential of Wi-Fi 7 and accelerates to 10Gbps

• Possibility of combining into a mesh system with other Zyxel routers

• Advanced security features including firewall, VPN and parental controls

In fact, we have a very powerful solution for organizing a high-speed and reliable wireless network in offices, hotels, educational institutions and other high-density environments. The access point will provide fast and stable signal for a large number of client devices and will become an excellent basis for the implementation of innovative services and applications, including in production.

Zyxel NebulaFlex WBE660S: A Guest from the Near Future of Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi 7 Practical Application Scenarios

This part is probably more for beginners who would like to understand Advantages of Wi-Fi 7The new standard will perform well in a wide range of operating conditions, but at this stage of development, it is corporate users who will be able to “squeeze” the maximum benefits out of it:

1. Offices and coworking spacesWi-Fi 7 lets you connect more people and devices without sacrificing performance, enabling fast file transfers, video conferencing, and cloud computing.

2. Industry and IoTWith low latency and high throughput, Wi-Fi 7 is ideal for connecting industrial sensors, controllers and robots as part of the Industry 4.0 concept.

3. Retail and HoReCa. Wi-Fi 7 will help improve customer service through fast access to online catalogs, mobile applications and loyalty systems. In addition, it will simplify the implementation of innovative solutions such as smart fitting rooms, interactive display cases and tables.

4. HealthcareWi-Fi 7 will speed up the transfer of large volumes of medical data (MRI images, X-rays, etc.), and will enable the implementation of telemedicine and remote monitoring of patients' conditions using wearable devices.

5. Education. The new wireless standard will expand opportunities for distance and blended learning, ensuring stable connection of large numbers of students and teachers to educational platforms and resources.

Wi-Fi 7 can also be used in everyday life.

The first thing that comes to mind is the creation of premium home and office networks with simultaneous connection of many resource-intensive devices, such as gaming consoles, virtual reality systems, 8K TVs etc. With high bandwidth and low latency, you can enjoy an incredible immersive digital experience with crystal clear images and smooth animations, even without 5G networks.

What do you think of the development idea? mixed and augmented reality applications? Wi-Fi 7 will pave the way for mass adoption of AR solutions, interactive interaction with 3D models, holograms and personalized digital overlays. Gamers will have access to the best AR and VR games without ping, students will have access to educational simulators with photorealistic graphics, and shoppers will try on clothes and accessories without going into the store.

Is Wi-Fi 7 Technology Necessary in Real Life?

Sure, Wi-Fi 7 is a new milestone in the development of wireless networkswhich opens up vast opportunities for businesses and consumers. With record speeds, ultra-low latency, and expanded bandwidth, this standard will enable scenarios that were previously impossible or technologically difficult.

Even though the mass adoption of Wi-Fi 7 is just gaining momentum, it is already worth taking a closer look at routers and access points that support this standard. Investments in advanced network infrastructure will help your company keep up with the times, improve the efficiency of business processes and gain a competitive advantage through the use of innovative technologies.

When choosing equipment with Wi-Fi 7 Consider factors such as speed, coverage, security, and compatibility with existing infrastructure. If necessary, consult with XCOM-SHOP.RU specialiststo find the best solution for your needs and budget. And don't forget that switching to a new standard is not just replacing a router, but a complex process that requires careful planning and step-by-step implementation.