Should I Upgrade to WiFi 6? Let’s Compare WiFi 5 vs. 6

Most businesses think about their WiFi only when installing their networks and when there are connection problems. Non-techies probably don’t even know the version of their specific WiFi connection. As long as the connection is stable and fast, WiFi versions are off the radar of most SMB owners.

However, as the Internet of Things (IoT) expands daily, with more smart devices connected to networks simultaneously, WiFi versions and compatible routers have gained more attention. When employees work online, they should not have to compete with smart devices for their share of bandwidth. With the meteoric and ongoing growth of IoT devices, a WiFi 5 router can get overburdened by pending connection requests. Should you upgrade to WiFi 6? Read on.

What is WiFi 6?

WiFi 6, also known as 802.11ax, is the latest wireless network protocol that offers significant enhancements to its predecessor, WiFi 5. Upgrading to WiFi 6 comes with many benefits, albeit some subtle ones:

Increased Channel Bandwidth – The higher the bandwidth of your wireless signal, the faster the connection. WiFi 6 has a greater number of streams than its predecessors and, therefore, more bandwidth.
Better Signal Coding and Modulation – Using OFDMA coding is one of the most significant improvements in WiFi 6. It allows multiple users and devices, doing unrelated tasks, to share the bandwidth and speed of the network connection. New modulation techniques also yield additional speed.
Larger Access Point Capacity – Increased access point capacity allows multiple users with multiple devices and different download/upload needs to work at the same time without slowing down the individual users.
Backwards Compatibility – WiFi 6 is compatible with older systems and networks. This is also known as interoperability.
WiFi Wake Time/Sleep Time – By automating when your WiFi signal is needed the most and when it can be in sleep mode, WiFi 6 improves device battery life, especially for IoT devices, and improves overall network efficiency.
IoT Focused Benefits – WiFi 6 enables optimization of access for scanners, sensors and other smart mobile devices, allowing them to operate simultaneously.

In today’s remote access hybrid work environment, the complexity of computers and networks has grown exponentially. Therefore, SMB owners must now include IT computer, network support and IT consulting services in their budgets. A fast, robust network is too important to your company to risk making uninformed IT decisions.

WiFi Installation Services For Your Small Business Network

If you are considering WiFi 5 vs 6, you should think about securing professional WiFi installation and network connectivity services.

IT experts can help design networks customized to your small to midsized business needs. IT professionals can evaluate your company’s needs, help you decide if you should upgrade to WiFi 6 and, if need be, install the new WiFi network and routers required. In addition, they can make cyber security recommendations to help lock down your wireless network.

As cybercrime continues to grow with the advent and addition of each new connected smart device, this is no time to leave the protection of your business network to chance. IT technology has shaped our modern way of doing business, and a professionally designed, strong computer network is the supporting infrastructure responsible for helping many businesses run more smoothly, efficiently and economically. The time and money saved by employing professionals for your SMB’s IT network support will far outweigh the costs of your system and network going offline or potential data breaches resulting from poorly designed and insufficiently protected business networks.

New system, network and software updates; established security protocols; and strong cyber defenses must also be in place at all times. Having a team of qualified IT specialists to support your system and network is essential to smooth business operations and the security of your company’s hard-earned data. An IT support team can plan and install your WiFi 6 network, maintain and repair your computer hardware, train your staff, update all software when necessary and provide state-of-the-art cyber security for all your devices and networks.

GEEK-AID^® Computer and Network Support specializes in customized computer network installation, maintenance and repair for small to midsized businesses. GEEK-AID^®'s team of experts is comprised of top specialists in different areas of IT services, serving clients on-site and remotely for Macs, PCs and all your connected devices, including new ones that are part of the ever-expanding IoT. When your business network goes down, they will perform on-site computer repairs if required. Our team doesn't clock out at five o'clock on Friday. They are available to you 24/7/365, remotely or in person, to ensure your computers, network and data function correctly. As your business expands its network, your network's cybercrime vulnerability and need for cyber security will grow, too. In addition to maintaining the hardware, software and security, employee training and regular IT support must be ongoing. New users and new devices will require additional training to use those devices efficiently. Hardware and software installation and maintenance, repair, cyber security and network protection are inter-related concerns. They must be addressed consistently and proactively to best support the seamless operation of your company.