Driving Wi-Fi Ahead: the Upper 5 GHz Ban

Today’s Wi-Fi spectrum bands are wildly popular. But with more and more people and devices taking advantage of this technology, these bands are getting congested. In response to the growing use of Wi-Fi, the Federal Communications Commission has taken steps to meet the growing demand for additional unlicensed spectrum.

In 20014, we added 100 megahertz of spectrum for Wi-Fi in the lower 5 GHz band. The Commission is also seeking to secure some unlicensed spectrum opportunities in the 600 MHz band as part of our upcoming incentive auction. But more needs to be done -- and soon. One spectrum band that we believe needs greater attention is in the upper 5 GHz band. In light of the proximity to spectrum in other parts of the 5 GHz band that are already used for unlicensed services, this is a prime candidate to help meet the demand for Wi-Fi.