What is WiFi 6 - why is it so revolutionary
Wi-Fi 6 (IEEE 802.11ax) is the latest version of the wireless networking standard, towering far above the currently well-established Wi-Fi 5 (IEEE 802.11ac) in several respects: -
- Up to 300% higher transfer
- Greater resistance to interference
- Shorter latency (up to 10 milliseconds)
- Enhanced security
- Energy saving
WiFi 5 vs WiFi 6 - which to choose?
If the small difference in price is not a problem, then you should definitely invest in a WiFi 6 equipped Internet router, and this is true for both home and business applications. Wi-Fi 6 is a newer standard and therefore faster and more secure.
Although a comparison of nominal speeds (as a reminder, Wi-Fi5 up to 1733 Mbit/s in the 5 GHz band) and 800 Mbit/s in the 2.4 GHz band vs. Wi-Fi 6 up to 2400 Mbit/s in the 5 GHz band and 1200 Mbit/s in the 2.4 GHz band) gives a difference of approx. 30-40%, the actual increase in achievable throughput in a real-world application (i.e. in a particular network operating in a particular location) is sometimes as much as 300% of the.
Such significant differences are due to the implementation of a number of additional features and mechanisms in Wi-Fi 6. For example, the use of 1024 QAM modulation and OFDMA transmission translates into better utilization of the physical bandwidth of the medium, improved control of signal power allows for reduced interference from neighboring networks in a given location, and MU-MIMO techniques applied to both downlink and uplink transmission - Uplink) contribute to aggregately better performance.
The new standard also offers improved mechanisms for ensuring the security of a wireless connection called WPA3. Compound and not primarily stronger encryption algorithms and better key management.
Wi-Fi 6, with smart mechanisms to put the interface into standby mode between active data sessions and then wake it up (Target Wake Time), the battery life of smartphones and other devices will also be extended.
Which WiFi 6 equipped router will be the best for me?
The currently available device that supports Wi-Fi 6 is the FRITZ!Box 4060, FRITZ!Box 7590 AX, FRITZ!Box 7530 AX and FRITZ!Box 5530 Fiber. Choosing the right solution will depend on the type of Internet access - the IEEE 802.11ax wireless interface has the same functionalities in each case.
The new standard also retains full "downward" compatibility with previous versions, i.e. Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 4. Thus, by purchasing a WiFi 6-enabled router, we can target the transition to Wi-Fi 6 (e.g., successively replacing FRITZ signal boosters!Repeater to newer ones) schedule at your discretion and ability.
The reverse scenario of implementing the new standard may also be possible and recommended in some situations: first equip yourself with a new repeater that supports Wi-Fi 6, such as FRITZ!Repeater 1200 AX, making compatible end devices (e.g. phones, laptops, etc.) will be able to take advantage of the new capabilities right away, and the corresponding router is bought at a convenient time.
