News
The regulator is proposing sharing the upper 6GHz band between both mobile and Wi-Fi networks
Today, Ofcom has launched a consultation on the future of the upper 6GHz spectrum band, potentially allowing both mobile and Wi-Fi networks to share the valuable airwaves.
Back in 2020, 500MHz of spectrum in the lower portion of the band were allocated to Wi-Fi as part of the Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 standards. The future of the upper portion of the band, on the other hand, remained up for debate.
With its low latency, high capacity, and relatively strong propagation, the 6,425 –7,125MHz spectrum band is appealing to both mobile and Wi-Fi operators. For the mobile players, this band could substantially bolster the quality of their 5G offering, while for Wi-Fi it could support high-power and outdoor deployments. As a result, both parties have been deeply involved in regulatory discussions with Ofcom, alongside the band’s existing users – mostly satellite services and radio astronomy users – that are also seeking assurances from the regulator.
Ofcom’s proposed solution would see the band potentially split between mobile and Wi-Fi. The regulator wants to make the whole of the upper 6GHz band available for Wi-Fi as soon as possible, ideally before the end of this year. But, by 2027, it suggests the band should be shared, with 160MHz and 400MHz prioritised for Wi-Fi, with the remainder prioritised for mobile usage.
In cases where mobile deployments are not present, the full band would still be available for Wi-Fi usage.
In addition to these changes, Ofcom is also suggesting that the use of the lower part of the band be expanded to outdoor and high-power Wi-Fi deployments.
“This new spectrum would provide a large increase in capacity for both mobile and Wi-Fi services, laying the foundations for future generations of data-hungry technologies, such as virtual and augmented reality, and AI,” said Ofcom in its announcement. “In a boost for the economy, it would also help mobile and Wi-Fi providers to deliver improved services to more customers, especially where demand is greatest. It would support advanced Wi-Fi for homes, businesses and industry, and enable mobile networks to better serve their customers, particularly in the most crowded places like high streets or stadiums.”
As Ofcom makes clear in its announcement, much of this regulatory approach is based on harmonising with its European counterparts, who are similarly debating the best use of this spectrum and are expected to make a decision by 2027.
“European harmonisation would see sharing of 6 GHz by mobile and Wi-Fi across the continent, and will help manufacturers, operators, and users have the confidence to invest in equipment and services for the band, which we are keen to encourage,” explained the regulator.
Feedback on the proposals are open until May 8.
Is the UK’s spectrum policy adequately supporting the country’s digital needs? Join the telecoms industry in discussion at Connected North live in Manchester
Also in the news:
Why network infrastructure needs a rethink in the age of AI and Edge computing
Iliad once again eying Italian consolidation with TIM
Eutelsat connects one million Sub-Saharan Africans to satellite