Wi-Fi 7: What is it and how will it impact field services?

As IoT devices and 5G integration surge in popularity, there’s a new tech trend making waves across many industries: Wi-Fi 7. With an estimated market of $1 billion in 2023 that’s expected to grow to $24.2 billion by 2030, Wi-Fi 7 demands attention. Its lightning-fast delivery speeds and increased real-time data transfer between devices are driving businesses everywhere to take the necessary steps to integrate Wi-Fi 7 into their networking infrastructures. Rising demand for Wi-Fi 7 and its plethora of benefits are requiring field service providers to adapt quickly and revolutionize the way they carry out projects. Keep reading to learn how Wi-Fi 7 impacts the field service industry.

What is Wi-Fi 7 and why are companies upgrading?

Wi-Fi 7, or 802.11be, is the next standard of wireless networking. It uses 2.4, 5, and 6-GHz spectrum bands to maximize total bandwidth. According to Tom’s Guide, with Wi-Fi 7, companies experience faster delivery speeds of up to 30 gigabytes per second (Gbps). This is a huge jump from Wi-Fi 6E, which delivered only 2 Gbps. Reports confirm that with this increased speed, company networks will better handle data-intensive applications, such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR).

Companies switch to Wi-Fi 7 for reasons beyond faster connectivity. Wi-Fi 7 also offers great capacity and reduced latency to enable real-time data transfer and collaboration. These enhancements contribute to streamlined workflows and increased productivity.

Wi-Fi 7 also increases the number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices a company can have on its network. IoT devices help companies enhance security, manage inventory, improve device performance, and create a positive customer experience. Because Wi-Fi 7 affects the way IoT devices connect, it is likely to be adopted across industries.

How will Wi-Fi 7 impact field services?

There are several capabilities field service organizations will need to ensure their technicians have in order to effectively handle this upcoming demand for Wi-Fi 7 implementation. Here are a few things technicians and service teams should be ready to take on: 

Infrastructure upgrades

Field service companies will likely need trained technicians who are prepared to work with clients’ existing hardware, such as routers, switches, and access points to ensure that existing equipment is compatible with Wi-Fi 7. Additionally, technicians should also be familiar with the troubleshooting process for potential issues once the Wi-Fi 7 has been implemented.

IoT device compatibility

Wi-Fi 7 enhances the connectivity between IoT devices such as laptops, smartphones, and security cameras. To optimize these systems, technicians need to know how to recognize and apply solutions to any IoT device compatibility issues.

Network Design

In order to maximize this new technology’s effectiveness, IT techs will need to plan clients’ network designs and know how to allocate channels and configure storage devices. Technicians should also be prepared to properly establish networks and implement security measures to maximize the network’s performance and protect each client’s data.

Find Wi-Fi 7 techs with Field Nation

Wi-Fi 7 is expected to be a game-changer when it comes to how companies operate and carry out daily tasks. With Wi-Fi 7’s ability to provide lightning-fast network speeds, reduced latency, and enhanced scalability, it’s no wonder why this new trend is turning heads. Industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and logistics, will quickly adopt this new wireless technology to gain a competitive advantage.

Be prepared for the upcoming demand for Wi-Fi 7! Don’t miss out on having a workforce of experienced professionals ready to upgrade network infrastructures, improve device compatibility, and design networks. Field Nation is the #1 labor marketplace for IT field services where you can build your team of trusted techs and take on any project, anywhere. Click here to get started.