If you’ve ever wondered whether Wi-Fi 6 and 802.11ax are different, the answer is simple: they are the same thing, just referred to differently. Wi-Fi 6 is the consumer-friendly name introduced by the Wi-Fi Alliance, while 802.11ax is the technical term used by the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) to define the standard.
The purpose of the Wi-Fi Alliance’s naming convention is to make it easier for consumers to identify and understand advancements in Wi-Fi technology. Instead of relying on the technical nomenclature (like 802.11ac, 802.11n), terms such as Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6 provide clarity about which generation of Wi-Fi you’re using. Despite the difference in names, Wi-Fi 6 and 802.11ax represent the same cutting-edge wireless technology.
What Makes 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) So Special?
802.11ax is a major leap forward in wireless communication, designed to meet the growing demands of modern networks. As more devices connect to Wi-Fi, traditional networks face challenges like congestion, slower speeds, and reduced efficiency. Wi-Fi 6 solves these issues by introducing a range of features that improve speed, reliability, and capacity.
Key Features of 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6)
- Increased Speed: With a maximum theoretical speed of up to 9.6 Gbps, Wi-Fi 6 is nearly 40% faster than its predecessor, Wi-Fi 5.
- OFDMA: Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access allows multiple devices to share a single channel, improving efficiency and reducing latency in crowded environments.
- MU-MIMO: Multi-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output supports more devices simultaneously, enabling better performance in homes, offices, and public spaces.
- 1024-QAM: Increases data throughput by encoding more data into each signal, making connections faster and more efficient.
- Target Wake Time (TWT): Extends battery life for IoT and mobile devices by scheduling communication more efficiently.
- Backward Compatibility: Wi-Fi 6 works seamlessly with older devices while offering maximum benefits to devices equipped with Wi-Fi 6 technology.
Navijin’s 802.11ax Solutions
Navijin is at the forefront of integrating Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) into its products to deliver unparalleled performance and reliability. Whether you need high-speed access points or advanced network devices, Navijin’s Wi-Fi 6-enabled solutions are designed to meet the demands of modern networking.
Some of Navijin’s Wi-Fi 6 Products:
- Outdoor and Indoor Wi-Fi 6 Access Points: Provide high-speed connectivity for challenging environments, ensuring consistent performance for multiple devices.
- Industrial and Commercial Switches: Seamlessly integrate Wi-Fi 6 technology into your enterprise network for enhanced capacity and efficiency.
- IoT-Friendly Products: Reduce power consumption and improve reliability for industrial and home IoT devices.
Navijin’s products embody the best of Wi-Fi 6 technology, offering businesses and individuals the tools needed to thrive in the connected world. To explore Navijin’s range of Wi-Fi 6 solutions and benefits, you can visit our website.