Future-Proofing Your Network: What’s Coming After 5GHz (Wi-Fi 6E and 6GHz)

In recent years, 5GHz Wi-Fi has been the go-to for faster and more stable wireless connections. But as more devices crowd the airwaves, even 5GHz is beginning to feel congested. So, what’s next? Enter Wi-Fi 6E, a game-changing upgrade that opens up the 6GHz spectrum—bringing faster speeds, lower latency, and a lot more room to breathe.

Let’s dive into what Wi-Fi 6E really is, why it matters, and how you can prepare your home or office network for the future.

What Is Wi-Fi 6E?

Wi-Fi 6E is not a new generation of Wi-Fi (like Wi-Fi 5 or 6), but an extension of Wi-Fi 6 into the newly available 6GHz frequency band. While Wi-Fi 5 and 6 work on 2.4GHz and 5GHz, Wi-Fi 6E adds an entirely new lane: 6GHz. That’s 1200 MHz of additional spectrum—more than double the space of 5GHz!

Key Benefits of Wi-Fi 6E:

• Less Congestion: 6GHz is currently empty compared to overcrowded 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.

• Faster Speeds: More bandwidth and wider channels (up to 160 MHz) enable gigabit+ speeds.

• Lower Latency: Ideal for gaming, AR/VR, and real-time applications.

• More Devices, Better Performance: Handles high-density environments better.

Why 6GHz Matters Now

With the rise of smart homes, 4K/8K streaming, remote work, and IoT, our Wi-Fi needs are changing. The 6GHz band gives devices more room to communicate without interference—think of it as opening a new highway with no traffic.

Countries like the U.S., U.K., and several in Europe have already approved unlicensed use of 6GHz. Uganda and others are expected to follow in the next few years as the technology becomes mainstream.

Is Your Device Ready for Wi-Fi 6E?

Most current devices are not compatible with 6GHz. To enjoy Wi-Fi 6E, you’ll need:

• A Wi-Fi 6E router (look for “Wi-Fi 6E” clearly labeled)

• A Wi-Fi 6E compatible phone or laptop (e.g., Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, some newer ThinkPads, or MacBook Pro M2)

To check your device:

• On Windows, use cmd > netsh wlan show drivers and look for “802.11ax” and “6GHz supported”

• On Android, check Wi-Fi settings for “6GHz” or “Wi-Fi 6E” under advanced features

Should You Upgrade Now?

If you’re in a congested apartment block or are setting up a future-ready workspace, upgrading to Wi-Fi 6E now could be worth it. However, for most home users, waiting until more 6E-compatible devices are available may be the smarter and more cost-effective option.

That Said;

Wi-Fi 6E is the future of wireless connectivity. While 5GHz served us well, the leap to 6GHz promises cleaner airwaves, faster connections, and less lag—perfect for our growing digital lives. By understanding these changes today, you’ll be better prepared to make the right tech decisions tomorrow.