Wi-Fi, or wireless fidelity, is a set of protocols that utilizes radio signals to connect computing devices to the internet. These protocols are managed by the Wi-Fi Alliance, an international non-profit entity.
Current Technology
In order for your device to connect via Wi-Fi, it must have hardware capable of sending and receiving these radio frequencies. Devices that have Wi-Fi capabilities have Wi-Fi adapters.
Over time, the protocols for Wi-Fi have improved and therefore are capable or higher data rates. Wi-Fi 6, released in 2019, is the current and most up-to-date version of this technology. (Wi-Fi 7 is scheduled to come out in 2023.)
Wi-Fi 6 Benefits (Compared to Wi-Fi 5):
- 3x the connectivity speed
- 4x the data capacity
- 75% less latency
Recommendations
If you are purchasing a device or USB adapter, it is best to confirm what Wi-Fi technology you are purchasing. For example, many devices that are Wi-Fi capable or USB Wi-Fi Adapters will not list a specific set of Wi-Fi protocols but can in fact be older technology.
You can also check your current device's Wi-Fi adapter technology. Older devices will have speed and capacity limitations.
| Wi-Fi 4 | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2014 | 2019 |
| Connectivity Speed | 150Mbps | 3.5 Gbps | 9.6 Gbps (250% faster than Wi-Fi 5*) |
| Data Capacity | |||
| Range |
70 meters indoors 250 meter outdoors |
(improved over Wi-Fi 4) | (improved over Wi-Fi 5) |
*Theoretical
[Sprint 1 Check: CB 03/01/22]