What is different about WiFi6 compared to 802.11n

Before diving into the comparison, it’s essential to understand the fundamentals of both WiFi 6 and 802.11n. I have chosen to start with N as I am finding this is many of the smaller to medium-sized networks I come across. Many did not upgrade to 802.11AC because they have been waiting on WIFI6.

1. 802.11n (Wireless-N):
   • Release Date: 2009
   • Frequency Bands: 2.4GHz and 5GHz
   • Maximum Speed: 600 Mbps (2.4GHz) and 1.3 Gbps (5GHz)
   • Multiple Input, Multiple Output (MIMO): Up to 4×4 MIMO
   • Technology: Uses Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM)
2. WiFi 6 (802.11ax):
   • Release Date: 2019
   • Frequency Bands: 2.4GHz and 5GHz
   • Maximum Speed: 9.6 Gbps (2.4GHz and 5GHz combined)
   • Multiple Input, Multiple Output (MIMO): Up to 8×8 MIMO
   • Technology: Uses Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA)

Speed and Performance

Speed and performance are the most significant and noticeable differences between these two technologies.

• 802.11n: With a maximum speed of 1.3 Gbps, 802.11n was a considerable improvement over its predecessors. It can easily handle everyday tasks like web browsing and video streaming but might struggle with more demanding applications like 4K video streaming or online gaming.
• WiFi 6: WiFi 6, with its maximum speed of 9.6 Gbps, takes wireless performance to a new level. It’s designed to handle the growing demand for high-definition streaming, online gaming, and IoT devices in our increasingly connected world. With advanced features like OFDMA, it can efficiently manage multiple devices simultaneously.

Efficiency and Capacity

Another crucial aspect to consider is how efficiently these technologies handle multiple devices.

• 802.11n: 802.11n can support multiple devices, but it lacks the advanced technologies needed to manage them efficiently. The network may experience congestion and slow down as the number of connected devices increases.
• WiFi 6: WiFi 6 is designed for a modern, device-rich environment. It uses MU-MIMO and OFDMA to provide more efficient data transmission to multiple devices. This means you can connect numerous devices to your network without experiencing a significant performance drop.

Range and Coverage

Wireless coverage is an important consideration, especially for larger homes or offices.

• 802.11n: While 802.11n can provide decent coverage, it may not be as effective in large or multi-story buildings. The 5GHz band has better speeds but slightly reduced range.
• WiFi 6: WiFi 6 offers improved range and coverage, thanks to technologies like BSS Coloring and Target Wake Time (TWT). This makes it an excellent choice for large spaces or homes with thick walls.

Device Compatibility

Your existing devices will need to support these technologies to take full advantage of their capabilities.

• 802.11n: Most modern devices are still compatible with 802.11n, but they won’t achieve WiFi 6 speeds or efficiency.
• WiFi 6: To fully benefit from WiFi 6, you’ll need devices that support this technology. Many newer smartphones, laptops, and routers are now WiFi 6 compatible, and more will follow suit.

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