HardwareNetworkingThe Wi-Fi 7 era officially begins with the introduction of certified devicesWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
HardwareNetworkingThe Wi-Fi 7 era officially begins with the introduction of certified devicesWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
(Image credit: Mikhail Konoplev, Getty Images)

After a long period of development, the Wi-Fi Alliance hasofficially begun certifying Wi-Fi 7 devices. This paves the way for mass adoption of the new standard, providing more seamless interoperability. Until the next standard comes along, we can expect Wi-Fi networking to dramatically improve, with faster, more reliable connections and reduced latency. The latter is something gamers will appreciate.
Connections in the 6GHz band are now possible, which, along with a wider 320MHz channel width, will allow multiple devices to access speeds in the multi-Gigabit range. Households with many devices including PCs, phones and laptops can use Wi-Fi 7 to do things like stream 4K video and deliver untethered AR and VR services.
Pre-certified Wi-Fi 7 devices havebeen available for a whilenow. It was a highly touted feature on manyZ790 refreshmotherboards, while several manufacturers have already releasedWi-Fi 7 ready routers. As long as you check periodically for firmware and software updates, these devices should work seamlessly with certified Wi-Fi 7 devices.
Don’t feel as though you need to rush out an upgrade to Wi-Fi 7 though. It’ll be with us for many years to come. Even now Wi-Fi 6E routers carry a price premium, especially the high bandwidth ones, and high end Wi-Fi 7 routers will remain expensive for the foreseeable future. At least you get back compatibility, so your older Wi-Fi devices will still function, albeit without Wi-Fi 7 exclusive features.
Best gaming PC: The top pre-built machines.Best gaming laptop: Great devices for mobile gaming.
Best gaming PC: The top pre-built machines.Best gaming laptop: Great devices for mobile gaming.
Best gaming PC: The top pre-built machines.Best gaming laptop: Great devices for mobile gaming.
Best gaming PC: The top pre-built machines.Best gaming laptop: Great devices for mobile gaming.

Best gaming PC: The top pre-built machines.Best gaming laptop: Great devices for mobile gaming.
Best gaming PC: The top pre-built machines.Best gaming laptop: Great devices for mobile gaming.
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