5G vs Wi-Fi 6: How Two Precise Wireless Technologies are Transforming the Internet of Things

Wi-Fi 6 or 5G technology which one do you choose? — these two support higher bandwidth capacity and more users per access point. One of the great discussions in networking is to pick between wired connectivity and wireless. Wired connectivity arguably is the best when it comes to speed. But wireless is the best when you need mobility.

Both 5G and Wi-Fi 6 are the two wireless technologies revolutionizing the Internet of Things. This blog post helps business enterprises take a closer look at both these technologies.

Upgraded Wi-Fi devices and Wired networks

With technology improvising in many ways, new upgraded Wi-Fi devices stand equal and tall with wired networks. Recent models of Wi-Fi deliver speeds as compared to wired networks. Hence the great discussions about choosing wired or wireless are becoming less valid. Of course, wired is still faster. But there is no notable difference in the user experience, including watching streaming videos and other mobile applications requiring higher bandwidth.

While moving forward to see what is next in store for the wireless — we come across the next-generation wireless providing well above 1Gbps. Choosing wireless is a no-brainer in such a case.

5G network emulator

Connect with us to find out more on how our 5G Network Emulators can study the performance of 5G networks under different conditions and for various normal and abnormal network operations.

5G solution

We had Wi-Fi as the only wireless option in the past. Now we have another option, and that’s 5G. With every new generation of wireless technology, the most significant appeal is improved speed. 5G networks have potential peak download speeds up to 20 Gbps.

Recent advancements can make the 5G solution a reality anytime later this year, which would empower companies to use 5G services in their workplace. On the other hand, Wi-Fi has gone through a significant step with Wi-Fi 6, making it more reliable. Both these technologies are revolutionizing the IoT. Let’s delve into how these will digitize the world.

Wi-Fi 6

If you’re thinking, “hold on, I don’t recollect Wi-Fi 4 or 5,” It is because the consumer-friendly naming protocol is relatively new. In 2018, the Wi-Fi Alliance began assigning 802.11ac technology, and the device that supports this technology is Wi-Fi 5. Now, the new standard for Wi-Fi 6 is 802.11ax.

But forget all the tech language. All you need to know is Wi-Fi 6 will be faster and much more effective. Is it competent in powering an increasing number of devices simultaneously? — Mobiles, laptops, iPads, video-game, smart TVs, Bluetooth, virtual-reality platforms, kitchen appliances, and the list is endless.

The current version of Wi-Fi 5 can’t handle all devices at once. And it is a humungous task. It may lead to network congestion, disconnection, and slowdown. Simultaneously, every device tries to battle out each other for higher bandwidth. You all might have experienced this during the pandemic. One parent is trying to attend a zoom video conference and while one kid is attending online school sessions and the other watching Netflix and playing online video games.

Wi-Fi 6 guarantees a speed of up to 9.6 Gbps. It is four times more than Wi-Fi 5 (3.5Gbps). In reality, it is just a theoretical explanation of maximum speed. But still, the 9.6Gbps is an incredible speed. It doesn’t have to go on one device but divided across a network of devices.

5G Technology: For a faster and efficient data transfer

An adequate capacity and speed are necessary to evolve towards the next generation of networks — 5G. It is next in line to replace 4G networks. While Wi-Fi embraces small-scale internet requirements, cellular networks like 5G are here to connect everything and virtually on a bigger scale. Let’s peep into the technical aspects of 5G.

Orthogonal frequency-division Multiplexing (OFDM) is the technology behind 5G that reduces resistance by changing a digital signal across several channels. 5G can operate in lower bands (like sub-6 GHz) and mmWave (24 GHz and above). 5G NR air interface is used to optimize OFDM to deliver an improved user experience.

5G: Millimetre waves

One of the regularly cited highlights for 5G is millimeter wave (mmWave) band transmission. It could be the answer to unlocking the blazing-fast internet speeds. Yes, 5G promises ultra-low latency and increased network capacity with multi-Gbps throughput.

In a nutshell, 5G brings higher performance and improved efficiency, empowering new user experiences that drive global growth.

Key Takeaways: Wi-Fi 6 Vs 5G

Wi-Fi 6 and 5G technology are built on the same foundation that offers high throughput, low latency, and high capacity. Both have the built-in network capacity to connect more users and devices.

Both will co-exist and operate together to promote different use cases. Consumers, mobile workers, and organizations will benefit from 5G and Wi-Fi 6 as they promise to improve performance dramatically.

Wi-Fi 6 may well be the preferred access choice for indoor networks. Wi-Fi 6 access points may be ideal for convention centers and indoor stadiums to serve more users.

5G will be the designated choice for outdoor networks, including drones, connected cars, and smart cities make it the chosen method for outdoor networks.

In conclusion, the two wireless technologies Wi-Fi 6 and 5G continue to evolve in parallel to lead a massive wave in the IoT.

About the Writer

He is a technology professional with several years of experience covering all aspects of IoT and 5G solutions. He is a keen observer of the technology advancements that unfold across industries. He also follows the software development trends in 5G network emulators.