CTS 372: Should You Upgrade to Wi-Fi 7? A Reality Check

Clear To Send: Wireless Network Engineering

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In this episode, we dive into the hype surrounding Wi-Fi 7 and help you determine whether it's time to upgrade or if you should hold off. We explore the key improvements Wi-Fi 7 brings to the table—including 320 MHz wide channels, Multi-Link Operation (MLO), 4K QAM, and enhanced security—while examining what these features mean in real-world deployments. The reality is that many environments are still dominated by Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6 devices, and most applications haven't yet pushed existing wireless infrastructure to its limits.

We also tackle the practical considerations that come with upgrading, from the total cost of ownership—including new access points, switches, cabling, licensing, and controllers—to the “shiny object” effect that can drive premature investments. Are you really taking advantage of Wi-Fi 7's capabilities, or are you just paying for features your environment won't utilize for years? We discuss the hidden costs and potential pitfalls of being an early adopter.

Finally, we offer practical guidance on when it makes sense to upgrade now versus when you should wait. If you're due for a refresh cycle or have the budget to future-proof your infrastructure, Wi-Fi 7 might be worth considering. However, if your current Wi-Fi 6 or 6E deployment is meeting your needs and your client base consists mostly of older devices, waiting could save you money and help you avoid first-generation bugs. Tune in to get a clear-eyed assessment of where Wi-Fi 7 stands today and what it means for your network strategy.

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