Understanding the Evolution: WiFi 5 vs. WiFi 6 vs. WiFi 7

WiFi 5 vs. WiFi 6 vs. WiFi 7 – WiFi For All

WiFi 5 (802.11ac)

  • Max speed: 3.5 Gbps
  • Operates on 5 GHz only
  • No support for OFDMA (improves multi-device efficiency)
  • Limited device handling in high-density environments

WiFi 6 (802.11ax)

  • Max speed: 9.6 Gbps
  • Operates on 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz (WiFi 6E adds 6 GHz)
  • Supports OFDMA & MU-MIMO (better multi-device performance)
  • Stronger security with WPA3 encryption

WiFi 7 (802.11be) – The Future of Wireless

  • Max speed: 46 Gbps
  • Operates on 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz
  • 320 MHz channel width (double WiFi 6E’s 160 MHz for even faster speeds)
  • 4K QAM (higher data throughput)
  • Multi-Link Operation (MLO) for seamless multi-band communication
  • Ultra-low latency for real-time applications (gaming, VR, AI-driven automation)

Why It’s Time to Upgrade

1️⃣ More Devices, More Demand
With smart home automation, remote work, and cloud computing increasing bandwidth requirements, WiFi 5 struggles to keep up. WiFi 6 and 7 provide higher capacity, ensuring that every device stays connected without slowing down.

2️⃣ Next-Level Speed with 2.5Gbps and 10Gbps LAN
WiFi 7 can only perform at its best when paired with a high-speed wired network. SBIT offers Gigabit → 2.5Gbps → 10Gbps Ethernet upgrades to eliminate bottlenecks and allow full utilization of modern WiFi speeds.

3️⃣ Better Security and Stability
Older networks are more vulnerable to cyber threats and performance issues. WiFi 6 and WiFi 7 introduce stronger encryption and more reliable connectivity, keeping your business and home secure.

4️⃣ Future-Proofing for AI, Cloud, and Smart Tech
AI-driven automation, cloud storage, and high-resolution video conferencing require higher bandwidth and ultra-low latency. WiFi 7, paired with 10Gbps fiber connectivity, ensures your network can handle tomorrow’s tech today.

5️⃣ Maximize Your Existing Infrastructure
Most businesses and homes already have Cat5e cabling, which can support 2.5Gbps. Upgrading to WiFi 6 or WiFi 7 with 2.5Gbps or 10Gbps LAN doesn’t require a complete overhaul—just strategic enhancements.


Upgrade with SBIT: WiFi and LAN Solutions Built for Speed

At Santa Barbara IT Group, we provide:
WiFi 6 & WiFi 7 deployment for homes and businesses
2.5Gbps & 10Gbps Ethernet upgrades to eliminate slowdowns
Network security enhancements to protect your data
Enterprise-grade fiber optic installation to 40Gbps and beyond

📞 Ready to upgrade? Contact SBIT today.

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