Microsoft May Bring Wi-Fi 7 to Windows 12 and Even Windows 11

This guide provides a clear overview of wi-fi 7, including the main concepts, practical steps, and common questions. Use it to understand the topic, compare the available options, and make a more informed decision.

In case you're using Windows 11 and wonder about Wi-Fi 7 compatibility with your system, an Intel document, spotted by tech blogger nicknamed Chi11eddog, seems to confirm that Windows 11 will also support Wi-Fi 7 when this Wi-Fi standard is officially released. Windows 10 is not mentioned in the leaked document, so it is likely that this operating system will not have the necessary Wi-Fi 7 drivers certified by Microsoft. But of course, users can continue to use this version of the operating system if they want because Wi-Fi 6 is generally still guaranteed to meet the needs.

Wi-Fi 7 is a new technical standard for Wi-Fi devices currently under development. Wi-Fi 7 is based on the draft 802.11be standard, which was announced in May 2021. Therefore, the technology is also sometimes referred to as Wi-Fi 802.11be.

The most striking feature of Wi-Fi 7 is that it can make traditional wired Ethernet connections 'outdated' thanks to the speed and stability it brings. In theory, Wi-Fi 7 can support bandwidth up to 30 gigabits per second (Gbps) per access point, which is up to three times faster than Wi-Fi's top speed of 9.6 Gbps. 6 (also known as 802.11ax). Experts call this the 'Extremely High Throughput' (EHT) internet connection standard.

In theory, today's popular wired Ethernet technology provides a maximum transfer rate of 10Gbps (10GBASE-T). But in fact, it doesn't exist in consumer devices at this time. And while higher transfer rates (such as Terabit Ethernet) exist in specialized settings such as data centers, its arrival in a home or small business environment is certainly a long way off. So for existing users of both Gigabit and 10 Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 7 can replace the need for a wired connection under optimal conditions.

Conclusion

Understanding Wi-Fi 7 makes it easier to compare options, avoid common mistakes, and apply the information in this guide more effectively. Review the relevant requirements before making changes or choosing a solution.