These are exciting times for the development of Wi-Fi and the technologies that will be enhanced by its improvement. Last year a new standard was launched Wi-Fi 7. The first release of Wi-Fi 7 was in spring 2024 and the second is due by the end of 2026.
Cisco, who we partner with, is a member of the Wi-Fi Alliance, the international network of companies that brings you Wi-Fi. The vision of the alliance “is to connect everyone and everything, everywhere” and the continued development of what is regarded as one of the world’s most valued communications technologies aims to make this more possible.
The latest Wi-Fi standard provides organisations with the ability to have more efficient networks as well as faster connections, while also providing effective cybersecurity. The rise of cloud computing, AI, IoT, as well as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality that require higher bandwidths, has been a key driver in the development of Wi-fi 7.
These developments are happening within commercial settings and at the consumer level. In the UK VR headsets, for example, have just become part of the basket of goods used by the Office of National Statistics to calculate the inflation measure, the Consumer Prices Index.
The key benefits of Wi-fi 7 are reduced latency and buffering, which means networks are better able to cope with the demand for seamless access but also provides the opportunity for VR and AR to be used more widely. For example, 3-D visual displays of products can be provided for potential customers.
Wi-fi 7 also provides the ability to maintain stable connections across large facilities so that IoT devices, automated systems, and inventory tracking tools can function without interruption, improving operational efficiency and reducing downtime.
As a Cisco Partner we are committed to creating the most efficient Wi-fi network experiences we can for clients and ensuring we take advantage of the latest technology. This means we can offer customers with the best connectivity possible which is important to us as a cloud and IP security systems provider but also because this improves digital connectivity across the organisation.
If you would like to know about Wi-fi 7, Cisco has produced an eBook and video that explain the technology. If you want support improving your digital connectivity using the latest technology please get in touch.