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Evolution of Wi-Fi - From the start to modern day Wi-Fi

Evolution of Wi-Fi Technology From 802.11 to Wi-Fi 6E

Over time, internet usage has increased in almost every sphere of our lives. Wi-Fi is the most popular choice for home and business networks. The history of Wi-Fi has evolved a lot. 

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Let us dig into the evolution of Wi-Fi technology 802.11 to Wi-Fi 6E in this blog. Wi-Fi 6 operates on the same 2.4 gigahertz and 5 gigahertz bands as 802.11a/g/n/ac, but it also has the option of operating at 6 gigahertz. This is new and distinct, and when 6 GHz is used, it is known as Wi-Fi 6E.

Also Read: A beginner’s guide to Broadband and how it works

Origin of Wi-Fi Technology

Wi-Fi is a method of connecting a device to the internet via wireless transmitters and radio waves. When a transmitter gets data from the internet, it turns it into a radio signal that Wi-Fi-enabled devices may receive and read. The transmitter and the gadget then exchange information. Wi-Fi was invented and initially made available to customers in 1997, when the 802.11 committee was formed.

This resulted in the development of IEEE802.11, a collection of standards that specify communication for wireless local area networks (WLANs). Following this, an early Wi-Fi standard was produced, allowing two gigabytes per second of wireless data transfer between devices. This prompted the creation of prototype routers that complied with IEEE 802.11, and Wi-Fi was released for household use in 1999.

There are lots of Wi-Fi routers available today in the market with various plans. Our built-in Wi-Fi 6 technology with Xstream Air Fiber takes you to the world of wireless internet promising an enhanced Wi-Fi experience for your home.

Also Read: How do I test my Wi-Fi speed online?

History of Wi-Fi network and Internet

The history of wireless internet goes back to 1996. The initial invention of the 802.11 protocol came in 1997, offering link speeds of up to 2 Mbit/s. Subsequently, in 1999, an advancement known as 802.11b was introduced, allowing for faster link speeds of 11 Mbit/s. During the same year, the Wi-Fi Alliance was established as a trade association tasked with managing the Wi-Fi trademark, which is widely used for marketing IEEE 802.11-compliant products.

The Basic Difference among Wi-Fi

Features Wi-Fi 6 (11ax) Wi-Fi 5 (11ac) Wi-Fi 4(11n)
Band support 2.4ghz + 5ghz 5ghz 2.4ghz + 5ghz
Bandwidth support

(Mhz)

20, 40, 80, 160 20, 40, 80, 160 20, 40
Max Speeds 2×2 device

(Mbps)

2400mbps (5ghz)

600mbps(2.4ghz)

866mbps 300mbps
Modulation Technique OFDMA OFDM OFDM
QAM 1024 256 64

Benefits of Wi-Fi 6

  • Faster Delivery: Provides low latency in data delivery with multiple connected devices.
  • Higher Speed: The higher speed can be distributed among a network of devices to enhance the speed of each device.
  • Higher Coverage: Promises hyperdense environment performance in public places.
  • Better Encryption: Supports new security and gives better encryption than its predecessor.
  • Lower Battery Consumption: It is best suited for new-age applications and consumes low battery.

Also Read: What is the best broadband plan for you? Let us figure it out

Evolution of Wi-Fi and Wireless Network

802.11ax, often known as Wi-Fi 6, is the sixth version of Wi-Fi that builds on the characteristics of 802.11ac to deliver increased wireless capacity and dependability. These advantages are achieved by adopting denser modulation techniques (1024 QAM & OFDMA), smaller subcarrier spacing (78.125 kHz), and schedule-based resource allocation in 802.11ax. 

Unlike its predecessor, 802.11ac, 802.11ax is a dual-band technology that operates at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. It provides a speed boost even in the lower frequency range. 802.11ax is intended to be as compatible as possible with 802.11a/g/n/ac clients. 802.11ax employs OFDMA, which allows resource units (RUs) to distribute bandwidth based on client demands and give numerous persons with the same user experience at higher rates. 

Key Features of Wi-Fi 6

  • OFDMA: To enhance efficiency and minimise latency, the access point can simultaneously connect with a greater number of devices.
  • MU-MIMO & Beam forming: Functions on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies, managing a greater number of devices, thereby facilitating elevated data rates and expanding network capacity.
  • 1024-QAM: To enhance data transfer rates for applications with high bandwidth requirements.
  • TWT- Target Wakeup time: Battery performance is enhanced.
  • BSS Colour: Assigns a distinct color to each network. Ensures spatial reuse within a densely populated network.

Also Read: 6 Things to Look for When Picking A Wi-Fi Router For Your Home

Conclusion

Wi-Fi connectivity has advanced on numerous fronts, with data transfer speeds and range leading the way. Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) must make use of the actual potential of current-generation wireless networking technology and update it to the best hardware available on the market to increase the performance and efficiency of consumer, commercial, and industrial goods. With Xstream Fiber you get faster and easier connectivity for your home and office networks. 

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