The demand for faster, more reliable wireless connections continues to grow year after year. More organizations need to process ever-growing volumes of data while performing much of their operations online, and wireless networks need to keep up.

Enter Wi-Fi 6E with Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC), a new technology poised to revolutionize wireless networking. This article explores the features of Wi-Fi 6E AFC and its potential to transform enterprise networks across various industries.

What Is Wi-Fi 6E?

Wi-Fi 6E builds upon the foundation of Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) by incorporating the 6 GHz spectrum. This expansion offers several key advantages:

• Increased bandwidth: Up to 1200 MHz of additional spectrum, significantly reducing network congestion.
• Lower latency: Faster response times due to reduced interference and contention over the air.
• Faster speeds: Theoretical speeds up to 9.6 Gbps (real-world speeds will be lower but still impressive).
• Improved security: Mandatory use of the latest WPA3 security protocol.

The introduction of the 6 GHz spectrum provides a clean slate for high-performance connections, free from the legacy device interference found in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.

The Need for AFC in Wi-Fi 6E

While the 6 GHz spectrum offers immense potential, it also presents unique challenges. Tom Borkowski, founder of TPK Advanced Wireless, says the 6 GHz spectrum became attractive to businesses because the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz spectrums had become increasingly saturated, prompting the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to move to 6 GHz.

“Unfortunately, there were some incumbents that were already using that space, mostly for point-to-point links,” Tom says.

To address these challenges and ensure coexistence with existing users, the FCC mandated the use of Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) for outdoor Wi-Fi 6E devices.

What is Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC)?

AFC is a dynamic spectrum management system designed to optimize the use of the 6 GHz band while protecting existing users. Here’s how it works:

1. GPS Location: Outdoor access points use GPS to determine their precise location.
2. AFC Database: A centralized database contains information on incumbent users and their frequency usage.
3. Daily Coordination: Access points communicate with the AFC system once per day to receive updated frequency allocations.
4. Power Control: The AFC system provides guidance on appropriate channel and power settings to minimize interference.

AFC vs. Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS)

To understand the significance of AFC, it’s helpful to compare it to its predecessor, Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS).

DFS: The Predecessor

DFS is used in the 5 GHz band to avoid interference with radar systems. It has several limitations:

• Frequent false positives leading to unnecessary channel switches
• Disruptions to user connectivity during channel changes
• Limited to indoor use in many cases

“With the way DFS operated in the 5 GHz spaces, APs were continuously listening for DFS and radar events, and often there would be a false positive,” Tom says. “It would have to go off to a different channel and this would impact users.”

AFC: The Next Evolution

AFC addresses these limitations with a proactive, coordinated approach:

• Predictable and stable frequency allocations
• Reduced interference and fewer disruptions
• Support for outdoor deployments
• More efficient use of available spectrum

Benefits of AFC for Enterprise Networks

The implementation of AFC in Wi-Fi 6E networks offers significant advantages for enterprise users.

Improved Spectrum Utilization

• Higher overall network capacity
• Reduced congestion in high-density environments
• Better support for bandwidth-intensive applications

Enhanced Reliability and Performance

• Fewer dropped connections
• Lower latency for time-sensitive applications
• Consistent performance across the network

Flexible Outdoor Deployments

• Extended network coverage to outdoor areas
• Support for outdoor IoT devices and sensors
• Improved connectivity for campus-wide networks

Implementation of AFC in Wi-Fi 6E Networks

Implementing AFC in Wi-Fi 6E networks involves a streamlined process that differs significantly from the traditional Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS) used in 5 GHz networks. The key steps in AFC implementation are:

1. Outdoor AP Configuration:
   • AFC is primarily for outdoor access points operating in specific U-NII bands (U-NII-5 or U-NII-8).
   • Indoor APs are generally not impacted by AFC requirements.
2. Location Determination:
   • Outdoor APs use GPS to accurately identify their location.
3. Daily AFC Database Communication:
   • Once per day, the AP communicates with an AFC coordinator.
4. Frequency and Power Allocation:
   • The AFC coordinator provides the AP with:
     • Allowable frequencies
     • Appropriate power settings
5. Interference Mitigation:
   • APs adjust their settings based on AFC guidance to avoid interfering with incumbent users.

Future Implications of AFC

As Wi-Fi 6E and AFC technology mature, we can expect far-reaching impacts.

Wider Adoption in Wireless Technologies

• Similar systems implemented in future wireless standards
• More efficient use of limited spectrum resources across all wireless communications
• Increased cooperation between different wireless technologies

Impact on Enterprise Network Planning

• Rethinking network topology to leverage outdoor Wi-Fi 6E deployments
• Implementing new tools for monitoring and optimizing AFC-enabled networks
• Training staff on AFC principles and best practices

Recent Developments in AFC

In February 2024, the FCC approved seven companies to begin operating Automated Frequency Coordination systems in the U-NII-5 (5925–6425 MHz) and U-NII-7 (6525–6875 MHz) bands. These companies include Qualcomm, Federated Wireless, Sony, Comsearch, Wi-Fi Alliance, the Wireless Broadband Alliance, and Broadcom.

The Wi-Fi Alliance has established a subsidiary, Wi-Fi Alliance Services, to provide AFC system access. This development marks a significant step towards the widespread implementation of AFC in Wi-Fi 6E networks.

Ready to Give Wi-Fi 6E a Try? Give Us a Call

Wi-Fi 6E with Automated Frequency Coordination represents a significant leap forward in wireless networking technology. By enabling more efficient use of the 6 GHz spectrum, AFC paves the way for faster, more reliable, and more flexible wireless networks.

As we move into an increasingly connected world, technologies like AFC will play a big role in ensuring that our wireless infrastructure can keep pace with growing demands. By understanding and embracing these advancements, businesses can position themselves at the forefront of the wireless revolution.

If you’re ready to upgrade your wireless network with the latest technology, contact TPK Advanced Wireless today for a free consultation. Discover how we can tailor a cutting-edge Wi-Fi 6E solution to meet your specific needs.