Scuffle over 6 GHz band raises questions about Wi-Fi 6E

In April 2020, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to free up 1,200 megahertz of spectrum in the 6 GHz band for unlicensed use, earning cheers from Wi-Fi and fixed wireless groups. But more than two years on, scuffles between industry associations representing cable, broadcasting, utility and public safety interests have left the future of the 6 GHz band in limbo. The spectrum is extremely important to cable operators and operators in general because it enables cable companies to offer the fastest service not only to your home but within your home via Wi-Fi technology. When the FCC adopted its 6 GHz order, it approved operation of low-power indoor devices in the band and opened a proceeding to develop rules for an Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) system for high-power devices. But the Utilities Technology Council, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, and several other utilities groups petitioned the FCC to revisit its rules for the operation of low-power indoor devices (such as routers). They argued the power-levels adopted by the FCC in its original order would allow for harmful interference with licensed microwave systems used by utilities and public safety agencies for critical communications. The NCTA—Internet and Television Association and the National Association of Broadcasters appear to be at odds in terms of their position on the FCC's official position on the 6GHz band; where the NAB believes in the co-existence of the licensed and unlicensed operation within the band, and the NCTA believes that any delays within the band ruling would "rob consumers of the benefits of better Wi-Fi service."