Wi-Fi 7: The Future of Wireless Networks

The new generation of wireless networks leverages Internet connection, opening endless innovation opportunities, which will change the way organizations create value and how we live our lives. 

 Wireless connectivity has become ubiquitous in our daily lives in the current digital era.  And even though the technology available today, in theory, allows us to connect up to 253 devices to a home router, the truth is that we do not have so many devices at home, and yet we are protagonists and victims of network latency effects.

To give you an idea, a Wi-Fi router may be connecting at least four smartphones, no less than one or two Smart TVs, and more than one computer of a typical family in an urban center, and in some cases we need to add security cameras as well as some other appliances. And the lack of low latency is noticed in video calls or in the loading times of movies and series streaming platforms. In this context, Wi-Fi 7 emerges as the next generation of wireless technology, promising to take connectivity to an unprecedented level.

One of Wi-Fi 7 biggest breakthroughs is its ability to provide data transfer speeds incredibly faster than the ones delivered by the Wi-Fi found in most Latin American homes and businesses. With theoretical rates exceeding 30 Gbps, this new wireless technology takes speed to a level previously associated only with wired connections. This means faster downloads, real-time, seamless content streaming, and a smoother overall user experience.

In technical terms, the rationale for this is that Wi-Fi 7 brings in significant spectral efficiency improvements, meaning it is able to oversee more devices simultaneously without sacrificing performance. This is especially important in a context where more devices requiring the internet for their partial or total operation piles up on a daily basis. With Wi-Fi 7, the effects of network congestion are reduced to almost zero, allowing for more stable and efficient connectivity in saturated environments.

This point also helps address the latency issue, or the delay for a data packet to travel from source to destination. With remarkably low latency, time-sensitive applications such as online gaming are significantly improved, something that mobile online gaming fans suffer from when competing remotely against another individual. This feature not only improves user experience, but it also involves sensitive applications in areas such as healthcare and industrial automation.

And greater connectivity entails greater security. Wireless network security is an ongoing concern, and Wi-Fi 7 addresses this challenge with significant improvements to its security protocols. With features like enhanced WPA3 encryption and more robust authentication, Wi-Fi 7 provides a more secure environment for sensitive data streaming.

This package of benefits or improvements leads to this type of connection to greater compatibility with emerging technologies that are transforming the way we live and work. From the Internet of Things (IoT) to Artificial Intelligence, this wireless technology is ready to support the demands of a constantly evolving digital ecosystem.

For all of the above, Wi-Fi 7 represents a significant milestone in wireless networks evolution. With its outstanding speed, improved spectral efficiency, low latency and security improvements, this technology is poised to transform the way we experience connectivity and to leverage each country’s available connectivity. As we move toward an increasingly connected future, Wi-Fi 7 is emerging as a critical pillar that will drive the next wave of technological innovations. We are on the verge of a wireless revolution, and Wi-Fi 7 is one of the tools that will pave the way to a faster, more efficient and connected world.

Author:
Alejandro Girardotti
Senior Director of Products, Innovation and Strategic Alliances
Cirion Technologies.