In a significant development, Microsoft has initiated testing of Wi-Fi 7 support within Windows 11, aiming to provide users with unparalleled internet speeds and reliability. With the introduction of the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26063, released in the Canary Channel, the tech giant lays the foundation for what promises to be a major leap in wireless connectivity technology.
Wi-Fi 7: A New Era of Wireless Connectivity
Wi-Fi 7, formally known as IEEE 802.11be Extremely High Throughput (EHT), marks a monumental step forward in wireless technology. Featuring 320 MHz superwide channels within the 6 GHz spectrum, Wi-Fi 7 is engineered to deliver double the throughput of its predecessor, Wi-Fi 6, effectively enabling multi-gigabit speeds for Wi-Fi-capable devices. This advancement not only promises a significant increase in data transmission rates but also ensures improved latency and reliability.
One of the most notable innovations of Wi-Fi 7 is the introduction of Multi-Link Operation (MLO), a technology designed to optimize traffic distribution across multiple links. This enhancement is crucial for achieving superior throughput and reliability. Additionally, Wi-Fi 7 incorporates the 4K QAM (Quadrature Amplitude Modulation) technique, which provides a 20% boost in transmission rates compared to the 1024 QAM used in Wi-Fi 6.
Harnessing the Power of Wi-Fi 7
To fully harness the benefits of Wi-Fi 7, both an access point and a computer supporting the technology are necessary. Several manufacturers have already introduced devices compatible with Wi-Fi 7, though it’s important to note that performance may vary based on the hardware capabilities of each device.
Microsoft’s commitment to Wi-Fi 7 underscores the company’s dedication to enhancing user experience through cutting-edge technology. By introducing support for these multi-gigabit speeds, Windows PC users stand to enjoy a level of connectivity that is up to 4x faster than Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E, and nearly 6x faster than Wi-Fi 5, as stated by Microsoft.
As testing continues in the Canary Channel, with no release for Insiders in the Dev Channel at this time due to ongoing tests with the servicing pipeline for Windows 11 24H2, the next feature release, users eagerly anticipate the broad rollout of Wi-Fi 7 support. Coupled with other recent advancements, such as the impending support for the USB4 Version 2.0 specification promising up to 80 Gbps transfer speeds over USB Type-C cables, it’s clear that Microsoft is paving the way for a future where high-speed, reliable connectivity is not just a luxury, but a standard feature for all Windows users.
Last Updated on November 7, 2024 10:08 pm CET
