In today’s digital age, we’re used to seeing WiFi symbols everywhere—from cafes to homes to airports. However, you may have noticed WiFi logos that come with numbers, such as WiFi 6 . What does the number 6 in the WiFi logo mean? Is it just a new design, or does it have a deeper, more important meaning for your internet connection?
The number symbol on the WiFi logo is not just a decoration. Behind the number, there is a revolution in wireless network technology that greatly affects internet speed, efficiency, and signal range.
What is WiFi 6?
WiFi 6 is the commercial name for the IEEE 802.11ax networking standard , which is an evolution of the previous generation, WiFi 5 (802.11ac). The number 6 in the logo indicates that the device supports 6th generation WiFi technology, which is designed to deliver:
- Higher speed
- Larger network capacity
- Better power efficiency
- More stable performance in dense areas
Not only does it increase speed, WiFi 6 also brings advanced features that are very useful in everyday use, especially when many devices are connected to one network simultaneously.
Differences between WiFi 6 and WiFi 5 and WiFi 2.4
WiFi 6 vs WiFi 5
| Feature | WiFi 5 (802.11ac) | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) |
|---|---|---|
| Bands used | 5 GHz only | 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz |
| Maximum speed | Around 3.5 Gbps | Up to 9.6 Gbps |
| Power consumption | Standard | More efficient |
| Performance in a crowd | Less than optimal | Very optimal |
| New features | MU-MIMO | MU-MIMO + OFDMA |
WiFi 6 introduces OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access) , which allows a single signal to be shared across multiple devices at once, making connections more stable when many people are online at the same time.
What about 2.4 GHz WiFi?
WiFi 2.4 GHz is an old frequency band that has been used since the beginning of WiFi networks. Although it has a wider range than 5 GHz, its speed and stability are lower.
Main differences:
- Range : 2.4 GHz reaches further
- Speed : 5 GHz and WiFi 6 is much faster
- Interference : 2.4 GHz is more susceptible to interference from other devices such as microwaves and Bluetooth.
Is There WiFi 7 Yet?
Yes, WiFi 7 or 802.11be is currently being finalized by the IEEE. Several manufacturers have already started marketing WiFi 7-ready devices , although the infrastructure and compatibility networks are still limited.
WiFi 7 promises:
- Speeds over 30 Gbps
- Very low latency
- A smoother 8K gaming and streaming experience
- Multi-Link Operation (MLO) to combine multiple frequencies at once
However, for now, WiFi 6 is still the most common and best standard for most home and office users.
How Far Does WiFi Reach?
WiFi signal range depends on several factors:
Based on frequency:
- 2.4 GHz : up to 45 meters indoors, 90 meters outdoors
- 5 GHz : about 15-30 meters indoors
- 6 GHz (WiFi 6E) : shorter than 5 GHz, ideal for open or small spaces
Factors that affect reach:
- Wall thickness
- Number of connected devices
- Interference from other electronic devices
- Router quality
Tips for Maximizing Reach:
- Place the router in the center of the house or room.
- Avoid placing the router near a microwave or TV.
- Use a WiFi repeater or mesh if your house has several floors.
Should You Upgrade to WiFi 6?
If you only use WiFi for light browsing or social media, WiFi 5 or even 2.4 GHz can still suffice. However, if you:
- Frequently watch 4K/8K videos
- Playing online games
- Using smart home devices
- Living in a house with multiple devices
So WiFi 6 will provide a real improvement in connection speed and stability .
So in conclusion, the number 6 is more than just a symbol
The number 6 in the WiFi logo isn’t just branding—it’s a sign that you’re connecting to the next generation of wireless networking technology that’s faster, more efficient, and smarter.
The stark differences with WiFi 5 and the 2.4 GHz frequency make WiFi 6 the ideal choice for modern connectivity needs. And even though WiFi 7 is in development, WiFi 6 is still the most relevant technology for the next few years.
For other technology information and tips, you can find useful references on the ajakteman.com site .
So, the next time you see a WiFi logo with the number 6, you know that it’s not just a number. It’s a doorway to a better internet connection—and now, you’re one of the ones who knows what it means.