ASSESSMENT OF THE KEY CAPABILITIES OF THE 7TH GENERATION WI-FI WIRELESS NETWORK

Abstract

The IEEE 802.11be standard, specified by a working group in early 2024, is an improved version of the previous 802.11ax standard. This latest iteration introduces a new generation of Wi-Fi 7 technology, also known as Extremely High Throughput (EHT), promising unprecedented wireless network performance.

Key features and advancements of the 802.11be standard include a maximum data transfer rate of up to 46 Gbps, operation in three frequency bands (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz) either separately or simultaneously with the Multi-Link Operation (MLO) function, a bandwidth of 320 MHz, a new quadrature amplitude modulation scheme (4K-QAM), and support for MU-MIMO technology with a 16x16 configuration. Additionally, the standard introduces a new format for spectral resource units, known as Multi-Resource Units (MRUs), enabling efficient channel utilization for a large number of devices. It also features an enhanced Restricted Target Wake Time (RTWT) function, which optimizes device wake-up times for data transmission.

These improvements offer significant prospects for the adoption of Wi-Fi 7 across various domains. For instance, the technology enhances high-speed home internet by providing increased bandwidth to support multiple devices simultaneously. It also ensures more reliable connections for demanding applications, such as online gaming, virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR), and 8K video streaming. At the enterprise level, Wi-Fi 7 is poised to revolutionize office networks, manufacturing sites, and smart cities by improving network productivity. In the medical field, the technology enables the use of wireless devices that were previously limited by existing wireless technologies. Its high connection density and minimal latency make it particularly valuable for the Internet of Things (IoT), automation systems, and sensor networks.

Moreover, Wi-Fi 7 opens up new possibilities in the automotive sector by facilitating stable communication between vehicles, infrastructure, and cloud services. This advancement enhances safety, comfort, and efficiency in transportation systems.

However, the widespread implementation of Wi-Fi 7 will depend on factors such as the economic availability of equipment, compatibility with existing standards, and user awareness of its benefits. As a key enabler of digitalization, Wi-Fi 7 is expected to drive seamless communication and foster new levels of interaction between devices in the coming years.

This article explores the capabilities of the 802.11be wireless network standard in greater detail and evaluates its potential applications across various fields.