The demands on WLAN networks are constantly increasing: Wireless networks with high data throughput and low latency are required for streaming in HD, fast downloads or lag-free online gaming. Until now, you could upgrade your computer to the current standards with the appropriate cards or dongles. However, a computer with Windows 11 is probably a prerequisite for the upcoming Wi-Fi 7 standard.
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No Wi-Fi 7 for Windows 10
Although Wi-Fi 7 is only expected for the coming year. There should also be retrofit solutions for this new standard. However, these will probably require a PC with Windows 11 installed. However, if you are still using Windows 10, you will probably not be able to use the upcoming WLAN standard. This comes from one leaked document from the manufacturer Intel.
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Drivers for Windows 11, Linux and Chrome OS
The reason for the exclusion of Windows 10 is likely to be the lack of drivers for Wi-Fi 7. Intel itself and other manufacturers such as Qualcomm or Mediathek should no longer be providing Wi-Fi 7 drivers for Windows 10. On the other hand, if you use Linux, Chrome OS or Windows 11, you can download the appropriate drivers. In addition, a new router that supports the new standard must be purchased for Wi-Fi 7.
High data rates thanks to channel bundling
Data rates of up to 5.8 Gbit per second are possible with Wi-Fi 7. To do this, all devices participating in the transfer, such as routers, PCs, smartphones or tablets, must support the standard accordingly. Wi-Fi 7 uses the three frequency bands 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz and 6 GHz to achieve these high data volumes. The channel width increases to 320 MHz compared to Wi-Fi 6 on 160 MHz. In addition, several channels from different bands can be bundled together.
Anyone still using Windows 10 can do so without hesitation until October 14, 2025. After that, Microsoft will no longer offer security updates for private customers.
