The 802.11ax standard, also known as Wi-Fi 6, is the sixth generation of Wi-Fi and succeeds 802.11ac, or Wi-Fi 5.

This standard was designed to significantly improve the efficiency of wireless networks, addressing the challenges of densely populated environments and providing a better user experience in high-demand scenarios such as airports, stadiums, and homes with many connected devices.

Main Features of 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6)

1. Greater Capacity and Efficiency: Wi-Fi 6 uses a technology called OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access), which allows a single transmission channel to handle multiple connections simultaneously. This improves network efficiency and capacity, allowing more devices to connect and operate without degrading quality of service.
2. Improved Band Management: Incorporates both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands (just like Wi-Fi 5), but with the improved ability to handle more traffic and support more devices simultaneously on both bands.
3. MU-MIMO technology: Wi-Fi 6 expands the capabilities of MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple Input, Multiple Output), which allows the router to communicate with multiple devices at the same time, not only increasing efficiency but also connection speed .
4. Improving Device Battery Life: Introduces a feature called TWT (Target Wake Time), which allows devices to plan when they need to “wake up” to send or receive data. This reduces power consumption and improves the battery life of connected devices.
5. Higher Data Speed: Although speed may vary depending on environment, 802.11ax devices are capable of reaching speeds of up to 9.6 Gbps theoretically compared to 3.5 Gbps for Wi-Fi 5. However, practical improvements over Wi-Fi 5 are generally in terms of efficiency and capacity rather than in absolute maximum speeds.
6. Enhanced Security: Wi-Fi 6 also comes with improved support for WPA3, the latest security protocol that offers better protection against third-party attacks and makes user passwords more secure.

Wi-Fi 6 apps

• High Density Environments: Wi-Fi 6 is ideal for areas with many connected devices, such as stadiums, shopping malls, or metropolitan areas, where capacity and efficiency are critical.
• IoT and Smart Homes: The ability to handle many low-demand devices efficiently makes Wi-Fi 6 an excellent choice for smart homes and IoT networks.
• Business and Education: Schools, universities and offices benefit from increased capacity and efficiency to support large numbers of users and devices without service degradation.

In summary, 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) not only delivers significant improvements in speed and capacity, but also improves power efficiency and security, making it suitable for the next generation of wireless applications and the growing demand for connectivity in all aspects of personal and professional life.