How will the advancement of Wi-Fi change our homes in 5 years?

Wireless Wi-Fi technology is developing faster than ever before. In 2024 the world saw Wi-Fi 7, which can theoretically reach a theoretical speed of up to 30 Gb/s, and technology experts are already talking about Wi-Fi 8. What might this mean for us and our homes in 5 years?

Wi-Fi 7 not only ensures a theoretical speed of up to 30 Gb/s (real speed can reach about 6–10 Gb/s) but also allows serving more devices at the same time, avoiding network overload problems. Compared with Wi-Fi 6, this standard is four times faster and far more efficient at managing the network. But this is only the beginning, because Wi-Fi 8 promises even more.

Although there is no official data yet, it is likely that Wi-Fi 8 will feature even greater throughput, lower latency and even more efficient integration of artificial intelligence (AI). This will allow home systems to be automated even further and create a true "Smart Home".

"Those who are looking into the possibility of installing internet at home, I currently very often urge to pay attention to the possibility of ordering internet services with the latest Wi-Fi 7 technology router. Why? Because this solution will undoubtedly pay off. At the same time, it will allow you to save, since in the future you will not need to replace the device with a newer model. It is important to mention that Etanetas customers can already order services with the latest Wi-Fi 7 technology router," says Artur Stefanovič, CEO of internet and TV services company Etanetas.

Everyday changes: more devices, smoother interaction

According to the technology specialist, as the number of smart devices in homes grows (from phones to refrigerators), Wi-Fi 7 and the upcoming Wi-Fi 8 will ensure a stable connection without disruptions, even if several dozen devices operate at the same time. For example: - Smart Home integration without delay: you will be able to simultaneously control lighting, heating, security systems and other smart devices. - Smoother remote work and learning: Wi-Fi 7 will ensure high-quality video calls and a stable connection without disruptions. - Virtual and augmented reality: the latest standards will allow enjoying VR and AR content without delay, which is especially relevant for gaming and learning.

In A. Stefanovič's opinion, the latest Wi-Fi standards are not only faster but also more secure. The AI integration they contain will allow routers to learn from user behaviour and automatically optimise network operation. For example:

• Self-Healing Networks: the AI system will automatically detect and fix network problems without human intervention. - Zero Trust Security (uses the latest WPA3 security protocol, ensuring greater resistance to password guessing and cyberattacks): the highest level of security is ensured, protecting against cyberattacks and unauthorised access.

Internet of Things (IoT) and smart homes

In the future, more and more household appliances will be connected to the internet. And Wi-Fi 7 and Wi-Fi 8 will ensure smooth interaction of these devices, allowing: - Smart energy management: monitoring energy consumption in real time and optimising the operation of household appliances. - Automated home security: checking and controlling door locks, surveillance cameras and other security devices remotely. Ecological and economic aspects More efficient energy management will reduce electricity consumption and help conserve the environment. This will also contribute to reducing CO2 emissions, because energy will be used more efficiently.

The only question is whether these advanced technologies will be available to everyone, or only to certain groups of users?

The myth about 5G on the phone "Some users think that if they have 5G on their phone, they do not need a separate Wi-Fi at home. But I will say right away that this is not entirely true. Although 5G can ensure a fast connection, it has its limitations.

First, regarding stability and reliability. The 5G signal depends greatly on the distance to the base station and on obstacles such as walls or buildings. And, for example, Wi-Fi 7 ensures a more stable and reliable connection throughout the household," asserts A. Stefanovič.

The expert adds that most 5G plans have data limits or speed restrictions after a certain threshold. Meanwhile, Wi-Fi with fibre-optic internet has no such restrictions.

In addition, 5G is usually adapted to work for one device, whereas Wi-Fi 7 can serve dozens of devices at the same time without disruptions.

With each step of Wi-Fi's evolution, privacy and data security challenges also grow. However, the latest standards give the user more control, allowing access to be managed intelligently and personal information to be protected.

It is likely that Wi-Fi 8 will expand AI capabilities even further, create even smarter homes and make it possible to implement even the most impressive ideas. "The evolution of Wi-Fi is fundamentally changing our everyday lives. From smart homes to top-level cybersecurity — wireless connectivity is becoming an inseparable part of life. There is only one question: are you already ready for this revolution?" says A. Stefanovič.