Windows 11 introduces Wi-Fi 7 support for enterprises, enhancing speed and security

Microsoft Launches General Availability of Wi-Fi 7 for Enterprises

Microsoft has officially rolled out Wi-Fi 7 support for enterprise access points, marking a considerable advancement in the realm of wireless networking. This functionality will be integrated into Windows 11, version 24H2, and later versions, with the rollout beginning as part of the September 2025 Windows preview non-security update. While Windows 11 has already been offering Wi-Fi 7 capabilities for consumer access points, this update extends those benefits—such as enhanced speed, increased throughput, and improved reliability—to enterprise-level infrastructures.

Enhanced Security with WPA3-Enterprise

The new Wi-Fi 7 for enterprises mandates the use of WPA3-Enterprise authentication, a feature designed to bolster security across networks. By enforcing this advanced security protocol, Microsoft aims to eliminate legacy vulnerabilities, establishing a robust standard for secure connectivity. As a result, organizations can expect stronger encryption methods, increased resistance against brute-force attacks, and enhanced safeguarding for sensitive data in transit.

Advantages of Wi-Fi 7 Technology

Wi-Fi 7 introduces a multitude of improvements over its predecessors. One significant feature is Multi-Link Operation (MLO), which allows devices to utilize multiple frequency bands—2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz—simultaneously. This capability helps minimize congestion and ensures reliable connectivity. Additionally, the introduction of 320 MHz ultra-wide bandwidth in 6 GHz effectively doubles the speed of connected devices, catering to high-bandwidth and low-latency applications, including augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR).

Moreover, Wi-Fi 7 employs 4096-QAM (Quadrature Amplitude Modulation), enhancing data transmission efficiency by 20%.This upgrade is particularly beneficial for applications that require high-quality video streaming and real-time conferencing, contributing to smoother user experiences across various platforms.

Prerequisites for Adoption

To fully leverage the benefits of the Wi-Fi 7 update, organizations must meet several crucial requirements:

Systems must operate on a Wi-Fi 7-capable release, specifically Windows 11 24H2 or the September 2025 preview update and beyond.
Devices need to be equipped with Wi-Fi 7-capable chipsets.
Adoption of Wi-Fi 7 Enterprise access points is essential.
Certified Windows Wi-Fi 7 drivers must be updated and validated for optimal functionality.

Microsoft has indicated that these drivers will soon be available from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and independent hardware vendors (IHVs).

Source: Microsoft

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