Wi-Fi 6 vs. 5G: What's the difference?

What is Wi-Fi 6?

Among other capabilities, Wi-Fi 6, also known as 802.11ax, offers significantly improved performance and more efficient coverage compared to previous standards. It supports features such as orthogonal frequency-division multiple access and multi-user multiple input, multiple output. These enhancements enable Wi-Fi 6 to support a significantly larger number of users than previous generations, while also improving capacity and reliability.

Wi-Fi 6 is also the first generation to be identified by a numerical sequence rather than the formal 802.11x designation the IEEE previously used to define wireless standards. To that end, previous standards -- 802.11n and 802.11ac -- are now known as Wi-Fi 4 and Wi-Fi 5, respectively.

The Wi-Fi Alliance introduced the new naming system in 2018.

What is 5G?

Fifth-generation cellular is the newest generation of cellular technology. It eclipses 4G LTE by offering increased network speeds and reliability. 5G uses higher frequencies than 4G LTE to transmit its signals, which means it can transfer data at faster rates and better support real-time communication.

5G and Wi-Fi 6 both offer increased bandwidth, higher speeds and lower latency. Both were engineered with features and capabilities -- among them enhanced UX -- that greatly surpass previous standards. Organizations can use both standards to connect users to services and resources, but it's important to recognize the differences between them.

Differences between Wi-Fi 6 and 5G

The key differences between Wi-Fi 6 and 5G include the following:

• Technology type.
• Licensing.
• Frequency.
• Authentication.
• Network security.
• Cost.
• Use cases.

Technology type

Wi-Fi is a wireless LAN technology that uses routers, access points and radio signals to connect devices within a limited range.

5G is a cellular technology that uses base stations, small cells and radio signals to transfer data and provide connectivity to end-user devices. 5G signals can travel for miles and typically cover a large geographic area. Licensing

4G LTE and previous cellular standards dictated that carriers transmit signals using licensed spectrum bands, designed to prevent interference between connected devices. In contrast, Wi-Fi operates in unlicensed bands that don't require permission to use.

5G, however, operates in both licensed and unlicensed bands. This could create co-channel interference in areas where 5G and Wi-Fi 6 signals overlap. Each standard has built-in safeguards to prevent interference, but organizations must still plan their wireless deployments carefully.

Frequency

Wi-Fi 6 operates in the unlicensed 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. Wi-Fi 6E, an extension of Wi-Fi 6, operates at 6 GHz.

5G operators use different frequency bands for their mobile networks, including 600 MHz, 800 MHz and millimeter wave, which operates between 30 GHz and 300 GHz.

Authentication

While Wi-Fi technology's unlicensed bands don't require permission to use, access to the Wi-Fi network itself does. To access a Wi-Fi network, users typically require a service set identifier -- or network name -- and password. In addition, Wi-Fi 6 introduces a new authentication type called Simultaneous Authentication of Equals for added protection against bad actors.

Cellular networks don't have the same authentication requirements as Wi-Fi networks, so it's easy for connected devices to gain access. However, 5G also uses several authentication types, including 5G Authentication and Key Agreement, Extensible Authentication Protocol-AKA and EAP-Transport Layer Security to bolster 5G network security.

Network security

Wi-Fi network device security is historically easier to guarantee than cellular networks, but Wi-Fi 6 offers new protections, such as Wi-Fi Protected Access 3. WPA3 bolsters authentication security and encryption and eliminates shortcomings of WPA2.

5G offers a more comprehensive suite of security capabilities than previous standards, but organizations still must guard against threats. New features encompass several concepts, among them security anchor functions, subscription permanent identifiers and subscription concealed identifiers. These enable seamless and secure device reauthentication as a connected device travels between networks, which former cellular generations couldn't guarantee.

Cost

Wi-Fi is typically cheaper to build and use. Unlicensed spectrum doesn't require fees to use, and Wi-Fi devices are typically more affordable than other networking equipment. 5G offers high-speed connectivity but at a higher cost. Most operators had to build their 5G infrastructure from scratch, which requires large investments in equipment and components. They must also purchase the spectrum to use in their mobile networks.

Use cases

The deployment of cellular and Wi-Fi technology, as well as the differences in how organizations use them, are key distinctions between Wi-Fi 6 and 5G. Traditionally, Wi-Fi is better suited for indoor wireless coverage. However, its scope has evolved as the standard has changed. Today, the technology is also used to provide high-density wireless connectivity in locations such as stadiums and sports venues; however, its main focus remains inside office buildings and dwellings.

5G is tailored to outdoor use, such as autonomous vehicle support. It's also engineered for use in mobile backhaul, fixed wireless access, satellite pairing, and edge computing. Organizations that use 4G LTE for backhaul can transition to 5G to enhance connectivity, as well as integrate cellular technology into the fixed wireless space.

Wi-Fi 6, 5G as complements rather than competitors

Despite the differences between Wi-Fi 6 and 5G, the two technologies complement each other well. Rather than ponder which one is better, businesses can use both standards together. More importantly, users are likely to care less about the technology they use if their connection is reliable.

Interoperability between Wi-Fi 6 and 5G networks enables seamless connectivity for users as they transition between networks, thanks in part to the increasing number of devices that support both technologies.

Together, Wi-Fi 6 and 5G underpin innovations in IoT, edge computing and other key enterprise operations. Combined, they offer workforces -- both remote and in the office -- higher speeds, better reliability and the flexibility needed to do their jobs effectively.

Editor's note: This article was updated by editors to reflect industry changes and improve the reader experience.