802.11ac vs. 802.11ax

Attribute	802.11ac	802.11ax
Frequency Band	5 GHz	2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
Maximum Data Rate	3.46 Gbps	10 Gbps
Modulation	256-QAM	1024-QAM
MIMO Streams	Up to 8	Up to 12
Channel Width	80 MHz	160 MHz

Introduction

When it comes to wireless networking standards, 802.11ac and 802.11ax are two of the most popular options available today. Both standards offer significant improvements over their predecessors, but they also have some key differences that set them apart. In this article, we will compare the attributes of 802.11ac and 802.11ax to help you understand which one may be the best choice for your networking needs.

Speed

One of the most important factors to consider when comparing wireless networking standards is speed. 802.11ac, also known as Wi-Fi 5, offers maximum theoretical speeds of up to 1.3 Gbps on the 5 GHz band. This makes it a great choice for applications that require high bandwidth, such as streaming video or online gaming. In comparison, 802.11ax, or Wi-Fi 6, offers even faster speeds, with maximum theoretical speeds of up to 9.6 Gbps. This makes it ideal for environments with a high density of connected devices, such as busy offices or public spaces.

Efficiency

Another important factor to consider when comparing wireless networking standards is efficiency. 802.11ac uses a technology called MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple Input, Multiple Output) to allow multiple devices to communicate with the router simultaneously, reducing latency and improving overall network performance. However, 802.11ax takes this a step further with the introduction of OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access), which divides each channel into smaller sub-channels to allow more devices to communicate at the same time. This makes 802.11ax more efficient than 802.11ac, especially in crowded environments.

Range

When it comes to range, both 802.11ac and 802.11ax offer improvements over previous wireless networking standards. 802.11ac uses beamforming technology to focus the signal towards connected devices, improving range and reliability. This makes it a great choice for larger homes or offices where coverage can be an issue. 802.11ax also supports beamforming, but it takes things a step further with the introduction of BSS Coloring, which helps reduce interference from neighboring networks. This can further improve range and reliability, especially in areas with a high density of wireless networks.

Compatibility

Compatibility is another important factor to consider when choosing a wireless networking standard. 802.11ac is widely supported by most modern devices, including smartphones, laptops, and tablets. This makes it a great choice for users who want to take advantage of the latest wireless technology without having to upgrade all of their devices. On the other hand, 802.11ax is a newer standard that is still being adopted by device manufacturers. While support for 802.11ax is growing, it may not be compatible with all of your existing devices, so it's important to consider this when making your decision.

Security

Security is always a top priority when it comes to wireless networking, and both 802.11ac and 802.11ax offer strong security features to help protect your network. 802.11ac supports WPA2 encryption, which is considered to be highly secure and difficult to crack. In comparison, 802.11ax supports WPA3 encryption, which offers even stronger security features, such as individualized data encryption and protection against brute force attacks. This makes 802.11ax a great choice for users who prioritize security and want to ensure that their network is protected from potential threats.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both 802.11ac and 802.11ax offer significant improvements over previous wireless networking standards, but they also have some key differences that set them apart. 802.11ac is a great choice for users who prioritize speed and compatibility, while 802.11ax is ideal for users who need faster speeds and improved efficiency in crowded environments. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific networking needs and the devices you plan to connect to your network. We hope this article has helped you understand the attributes of 802.11ac and 802.11ax so you can make an informed decision when choosing a wireless networking standard.