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Wi-Fi 6E Routers Debut

January 19, 2021

Wi-Fi 6E is the latest standard for wireless networks. At this point, you’re probably ticked off that you just upgraded to a Wi-Fi 6 (not 6E) device. Don’t despair. Wi-Fi 6 is still a great improvement over Wi-Fi 5. So what’s the difference? Wi-Fi 6 is all about improving capacity and security. Previously, wireless networks used the 2.4Ghz and 5GHz frequencies. Wi-Fi 6E uses those same two frequencies, but also uses the 6GHz spectrum. That means being able to handle a lot more devices in crowded areas such as apartment complexes.

Ars Technica has a post describing Wi-Fi 6E and some new hardware coming to market. One of the first 6E routers to hit the market is the Asus ROG Rapture GT-AXE11000 router. It is now available for presale at Newegg for $549.99. Delivery is scheduled for January 29, 2021. Having a Wi-Fi 6E router is only half of the connection. You still need a device (laptop, smartphone, etc.) that also supports the 6E standard. There are several other Wi-Fi 6E routers from other manufacturers coming out in the next few months. For now, I would look to implement a Wi-Fi 6 mesh network if you are interested in upgrading your current wireless network and let Wi-Fi 6E settle in before jumping on the bleeding edge.

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