Today, the FCC published its bipartisan 5.9 GHz Order, which means Americans will soon be able to experience more reliable, faster at-home Wi-Fi and the next generation of connected tech in their cars. We encourage the FCC to build on these rules to enable outdoor Wi-Fi, encourage the development of a robust equipment ecosystem and expand rural broadband access.
As we continue to grapple with the wide-ranging impacts of a once-in-a-generation global pandemic, we see time and time again that Wi-Fi is an absolute necessity.
This past week, there seemed to be some confusion surrounding the 5.9 GHz band and what it provides to both Wi-Fi technology and the future of smart transportation. Today, WifiForward would like to provide a sort of “level-set” on the band, how it was modernized last year and how it’s being used in the United States.
It goes without saying that Wi-Fi has become absolutely essential during this pandemic. It’s been a lifeline for telehealth, education, remote work, streaming movies and staying connected while staying apart.
Now, more than a year into the pandemic, we have some real numbers and supportive stories to show how people used networks and Wi-Fi during this time. And the data shows one thing in particular: our networks are strong and were able to keep up with rising demand. Read More “We didn’t break the Internet: the resiliency of our networks during the pandemic”
“Today, the White House announced its request for additional funding for NTIA to expand spectrum research. WifiForward welcomes this move. We need creative, innovative solutions to ensure American consumers have access to high-speed connectivity and a wide range of advanced technologies. Boosting funding for the Commerce Department will keep attention focused on making essential licensed and unlicensed airwaves work to their maximum potential.”
On April 24, 2020 — almost a year ago — the FCC met the moment during a time of crisis and officially opened up the 6 GHz band to Wi-Fi and other unlicensed uses. This move by the FCC unleashed the full potential of Wi-Fi capabilities by freeing up previously underused spectrum and ushering in next-generation technologies like Wi-Fi 6E.
Read More “Connectivity Around the World: Global Momentum of the 6 GHz Band”
Over on our blog, we are also tracking how people are using Wi-Fi to keep connected in their communities. Check there and follow us on Twitter for regular updates. (Please note: included below are links in reference to the dates the data was released.)
As we consider the future of connectivity — from 5G to the next generation of Wi-Fi to cutting edge technologies like AR/VR — making the best use of available spectrum is of the utmost importance. This means leveraging all of the spectrum resources that are available, sharing spectrum and coordinating its use to deliver the best connectivity to all Americans. Read More “New resources from WifiForward provide guide to the future of connectivity”
Can we quantify the value of Wi-Fi in dollars and cents? How much does Wi-Fi contribute to the economy? How much is it worth to you?
Read More “Quantifying the Value of Wi-Fi: Recapping Wi-Fi At Work Webinar”
Do you want to know the true impact of Wi-Fi on our everyday lives? Are you interested in all the different ways that the technology has transformed how we work, live, play, and everything in between? Read More “WifiForward’s Newest Attraction: Wi-Fi Land!”