Wi-Fi 7 Certification: A Leap Forward in Wireless Connectivity

The Wi-Fi Alliance has officially kicked off the certification process for devices supporting Wi-Fi 7, marking a significant advancement in wireless technology. In an exclusive interview with The Verge, CEO Kevin Robinson shed light on the implications for existing gadgets, the testing procedure, and the enhanced features that set Wi-Fi 7 apart from its predecessor.

Certification involves a rigorous examination of how new Wi-Fi 7-enabled devices interact with others and their overall stability. Existing Wi-Fi 7 routers already on the market will undergo testing, with results publicly disclosed. While devices that don't pass the test won't be removed from the market, consumers will be informed of their performance limitations under the new standard.

Wi-Fi 7 boasts twice the channel bandwidth compared to its predecessor, offering a substantial leap from 160 MHz to 320 MHz. Theoretically, this results in over 2 Gbps across all bands. One of the standout features is Multi-Link Operation (MLO), which seamlessly integrates 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz wireless channels. This not only enhances speed but also ensures stability by eliminating the need for devices to switch between different frequency ranges.

MLO addresses packet transmission delays associated with the order of connected devices. Robinson emphasized that having all three bands available concurrently significantly increases the likelihood of immediate packet transmission. However, not every router will fully support MLO, as manufacturers may opt for a two-channel connection. Certification results will reflect these variations, clarifying which routers unlock the full potential of Wi-Fi 7.

It's essential to note that older devices won't directly benefit from the new routers. Instead, these routers should be viewed as a foundation for future connectivity. The Wi-Fi Alliance's emphasis on certification aims to provide consumers with transparency about the capabilities of Wi-Fi 7 devices, ensuring informed choices in the evolving landscape of wireless technology.

Source:4pda