As you’ve probably noticed, it’s not easy to understand the current classification system for the different versions of Wi-Fi.
It’s hard to understand that 802.11b is the version preceding 802.11a.
So where does 802.11ac fit in?
Here’s the good news: to simplify matters, the Wi-Fi Alliance has decided to change the classification to a simple numbering system.
Code name modification
All the code names given so far will be changed to give rise to the following classification:
- Wi-Fi 1: 802.11b (1999)
- Wi-Fi 2: 802.11a (1999)
- Wi-Fi 3: 802.11g (2003)
- Wi-Fi 4: 802.11n (2009)
- Wi-Fi 5: 802.11ac (2014)
There’s no longer any need to rack your brains to find out whether the ac version is more recent than the n version; the larger the number, the more recent the model.
Note: all generations of Wi-Fi can work together, even if, technically, the first 3 versions are no longer really represented.
A modification that doesn’t just apply to hardware
The Wi-Fi Alliance even wants this change to go beyond hardware.
So, in future, when you connect to a Wi-Fi network from any terminal, the usual logo will be accompanied by its denomination.
This way, if you can access two different networks, one version 4 and the other version 5, you’ll be able to choose the faster, more recent option.
What does the near future hold for Wi-Fi?
The arrival of a new kid on the block Now that the retroactive name change has been adopted, it’s time to look to the future.
You may already be aware that the next generation of Wi-Fi is about to see the light of day, bringing with it the promise of greater speed and performance.
Initially, this next-generation Wi-Fi was to be known as 802.11ax, but in the end it will be christened Wi-Fi 6. Of course, the Wi-Fi Alliance hopes that companies will adopt the new name in the very near future.
But make no mistake, there’s bound to be a period of confusion.
Firstly, old versions are likely to remain labelled with their original names.
Secondly, consumers will have to get used to the new names, which may take several months.
After years of seeing letters, it can be particularly confusing to suddenly see a number.
And if one device announces its compatibility with 802.11ax while others speak of Wi-Fi 6, the confusion may well last longer than expected.
Indeed, the Wi-Fi Alliance can’t force industries to adopt the change, so it will take a general industry effort to make the change happen without adding more confusion.
This will undoubtedly happen with the arrival of the first Wi-Fi 6 devices.
There’s a lot to be lost between the arrival of a new version and the change of name.
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