TECH

What is Wi-Fi 6 and how will technology "revolutionize" internet connections?

In Samsung's recent presentation of the Galaxy S10 family of models, you certainly heard the reference to support Wi-Fi 6, the next generation of wireless network that will arrive with 5G. But this will not be the only device coming to market, with Mobile World Congress on the doorstep, many other manufacturers are preparing to introduce their equipment to the new technologies. But what is Wi-Fi 6? Check out the most frequently asked questions about wireless technology.

Wi-Fi 6? Where are the previous ones?
The new generation of Wi-Fi adopts for the first time a numbering to be distinguished more easily. Previously, in the specifications of the Internet routers the versions were designated by letters, as for example 802.11n, 802.11g, 802.11a, 802.11b and 802.11ac. As it was too confusing, the Wi-Fi Alliance, in charge of implementation, decided to switch to direct numbering. Thus, the 5G (fifth generation mobile) will introduce the Wi-Fi 6 (sixth generation Wi-Fi). The Wi-Fi Alliance even intends to "rename" previous generations with numbers, 802.11ac being Wi-Fi 5, and 802.11n Wi-Fi 4, and so on.

What is the speed of Wi-Fi 6?
Although it is a relatively relative issue, between the maximum speed actually supported by the network and those actually obtained in "real life", the "label" will be able to support up to 9.6 Gbps, ie 3.5 Gbps than the previous generation. For normal domestic use, the speed seems well exaggerated by current standards. Imagine downloading a 25 GB Blu-Ray in less than three seconds. It sounds astronomical, do you agree? Obviously speed can be divided among the (increasingly) wireless devices scattered around the house, and obviously the generation of IoT technology is just around the corner.

More speed or greater stability?
More than fast speeds, connections will be more stable and consistent, and this is perhaps the most important feature of Wi-Fi 6. Studies indicate that average Wi-Fi devices at home have risen from five to twice, where they reign supreme smartphones, tablets, laptops, smartwatchs, televisions, virtual assistants, among other devices, many of them multiplied by family members.

How do I access Wi-Fi 6 networks?
The bad news is that to benefit from the next generation of Wi-Fi network you need new equipment, this is because the transformation is physical, hardware, not just a software or firmware update. Smartphones (such as Samsung's previously announced models), tablets, laptops, and more, should all feature Wi-Fi 6 support to ensure they can take advantage of faster networks. Qualcomm's new processor, the Snapdragon 855 includes support for Wi-Fi 6, but does not guarantee that smartphones with the chip are ready for the network.

Why is Wi-Fi network 6 going to be faster?
This is a more technical question and has to do with the use of two technologies: MU-MIMO (multiple-imput, multiple outuput) and OFDMA (orthogonal frequency division multiple access). Briefly, the first technology, which is already used but improved in the next generation, allows the router to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously rather than transmit to one, and then another, and so on. In the current generation the technology only allows communication with up to four devices at the same time, but Wi-Fi 6 will double the amount.
On the other hand, OFDMA technology allows a transmission to be delivered to multiple devices simultaneously. That is, a broadcast will not be directed to only one smartphone, the surplus of the band will be allocated to the next ones by the way. Combining the two technologies generates more communication channels, and each channel transmits to even more devices simultaneously. Is it true that Wi-Fi 6 will improve battery life?
Yes. One of the reasons why devices drain the battery quickly is exactly the Wi-Fi connection. Try disconnecting a smartphone for one day and notice the difference in autonomy. This is because smartphones are currently in constant contact with the transmitters and this requires power to power the antennas. Through a feature called Target Wake Time, the routers are scheduled to check with the devices.
Obviously this functionality and savings do not concern active access to the internet, because it is necessary to be in constant online connection, but for devices that only need to be "queried" from time to time. That is, equipment more focused on IoT that for most of the day are not used.
Is Wi-Fi 6 going to be safer?
The new generation will not introduce any new security protocol, but will resort to WPA3, which has been used for almost 10 years. However, even though the devices support the WPA3 system, it is optional. For Wi-Fi 6 is a mandatory requirement, so indirectly the new generation will be more secure.

When is Wi-Fi 6?
As mentioned, devices supporting Wi-Fi 6 begin to emerge with the new equipment and are also to be launched Netgear and TP-Link routers this year. But do not worry about getting the update running, because the technology will have its maturation time, and when eventually switching equipment, the features of the devices will naturally follow. Likewise, you will need a new router for the same reasons for Wi-Fi 6 compatibility. Most likely, carriers will "get ahead" and offer loyalty packages with access to Wi-Fi technology 6. Sapo/mundophone