The maximum theoretical bandwidth of Wi-Fi varies significantly depending on the specific protocol or standard being used. With the latest advancements, the theoretical maximum can exceed 46 gigabits per second (Gbps).
Wi-Fi performance, including maximum data rate (often referred to as bandwidth in this context), is determined by the underlying technology standard. Different standards operate at various frequencies and employ different techniques, resulting in vastly different theoretical maximum speeds.
Maximum Speeds of Older Wi-Fi Protocols (Reference Data)
According to information on different Wi-Fi protocols, older standards offered significantly lower theoretical maximum data rates compared to modern versions. The provided reference lists the following:
| Protocol | Frequency | Maximum data rate (theoretical) |
|---|---|---|
| 802.11n | 2.4 or 5 GHz | 450 Mbps3 |
| 802.11g | 2.4 GHz | 54 Mbps |
| 802.11a | 5 GHz | 54 Mbps |
| 802.11b | 2.4 GHz | 11 Mbps |
Among these specific protocols listed in the reference, 802.11n offered the highest theoretical maximum data rate at 450 Mbps.
Evolution of Wi-Fi Speeds: Modern Protocols
While the protocols listed above were common historically, newer Wi-Fi standards have dramatically increased the potential bandwidth:
- 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5): Introduced multi-user MIMO and wider channels, boosting theoretical speeds well over 1 Gbps, typically up to several Gbps depending on the configuration.
- 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6 / 6E): Focused on improving performance in congested environments and increasing overall throughput, with theoretical maximum speeds reaching up to 9.6 Gbps.
- 802.11be (Wi-Fi 7): The latest standard, designed for extremely high throughput and low latency. Wi-Fi 7 leverages new technologies like 320 MHz wide channels and 4096-QAM modulation to achieve theoretical maximum data rates potentially exceeding 46 Gbps.
Therefore, while the theoretical maximum bandwidth of older Wi-Fi standards might have been in the range of 450 Mbps, the absolute maximum theoretical bandwidth achievable with the most current Wi-Fi technology (802.11be) is significantly higher, measured in tens of gigabits per second.
Real-World Performance
It's important to note that the figures mentioned above are theoretical maximums. Actual real-world Wi-Fi speeds are typically lower due to various factors, including distance from the router, interference, the number of connected devices, the specific hardware capabilities of the devices, and environmental conditions.
In summary, the maximum theoretical bandwidth of Wi-Fi depends entirely on the protocol standard, ranging from tens or hundreds of Mbps for older standards like 802.11b/g/a/n to potentially over 46 Gbps for the newest 802.11be (Wi-Fi 7).
