As more countries around the world advance, Wi-Fi 6 and its extension, Wi-Fi 6E, are at the front of improving connectivity and bandwidth. Over the past two years, the global landscape for Wi-Fi 6 and 6E has evolved significantly, with numerous countries either adopting or considering these technologies.
The Global Expansion of Wi-Fi 6E
Wi-Fi 6, officially known as IEEE 802.11ax, was introduced in 2019 with a focus on enhancing efficiency and supporting multiple users simultaneously. Its extension, Wi-Fi 6E, adds a new dimension by incorporating the 6 GHz band, providing an additional 1,200 MHz of spectrum. This expansion addresses the growing demand for higher speeds and reduced latency, making it a crucial technology for modern connectivity.
Since the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) opened the 6 GHz band for Wi-Fi use in April 2020, over 60 countries across the Americas, EMEA, and APAC regions have either adopted or are considering making the band available. The move has been widely recognized as a significant development in Wi-Fi technology, paving the way for faster, more efficient wireless networks across the globe.
Recent Country-Specific Developments
Pakistan
Pakistan has recently made headlines by announcing its intent to adopt Wi-Fi 6E. This decision positions Pakistan as a leader in next-generation Wi-Fi technology within the Asia Pacific region, becoming the 10th country in the area to embrace the 6 GHz band. Although this is a significant step forward, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) still needs to define the technical parameters for spectrum allocation, which will be crucial for the effective implementation of Wi-Fi 6E. Read more.
Brazil
Brazil’s recent Public Consultation No. 29/2024 proposes narrowing the operational frequency band for Wi-Fi 6E. The proposed restriction of the band from 5925-7125 MHz to 5925-6425 MHz aims to allocate the upper spectrum (6425-7125 MHz) for future International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) systems. This change reflects Brazil’s effort to manage spectrum use and minimize interference, impacting the deployment of Wi-Fi 6E and future generations of Wi-Fi. Read more.
Philippines
On July 5, 2024, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) of the Philippines issued Memorandum Circular No. 002-07-2024, updating regulations for wireless LAN technologies. This new directive permits the use of the 5925-6425 MHz band for indoor and low-power outdoor applications, including Wi-Fi 6E. This approval enhances connectivity options and supports the growing demand for high-performance wireless networks in the region. Read more.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRCSL) has outlined its spectrum roadmap for 2024-2029, which includes the adoption of Wi-Fi 6E in the 5.925-7.125 GHz band. This strategic move is aimed at improving internet speeds, supporting high-bandwidth applications, and fostering technological innovation, positioning Sri Lanka to meet future connectivity needs effectively. Read more.
Bahrain
Bahrain has recently updated its Technical Specifications document to include Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E, expanding spectrum ranges to 5470-5725 MHz and 5925-6425 MHz. This update supports the integration of Wi-Fi 7 and enhances Bahrain’s already robust connectivity infrastructure, which includes extensive fiber optic networks and 5G coverage. These advancements are set to improve overall connectivity and accommodate the increasing number of connected devices. Read more.
The Future of Wi-Fi 6 & 6E
The global adoption of Wi-Fi 6 and 6E is accelerating, with countries making varied strides towards full implementation. While some nations have fully embraced the 6 GHz band, others are in the process of defining their regulatory frameworks or making partial adjustments. As Wi-Fi 6 and 6E continues to expand, it will play a pivotal role in meeting the rising demand for faster, more reliable wireless connectivity.
