What is an Unlicensed Spectrum?

Unlicensed spectrum refers to frequency bands that are open for public use without needing a license from the government. These bands are commonly used for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and IoT devices, allowing businesses and consumers to set up wireless networks without carrier restrictions.

• Common Unlicensed Bands:
  • 2.4 GHz – Used for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and many wireless devices; offers long range but can be crowded.
  • 5 GHz – Faster than 2.4 GHz, with less interference but slightly shorter range.
  • 6 GHz – Introduced with Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7, offering more bandwidth and reduced congestion.
  • 60 GHz (mmWave, also called WiGig) – Ultra-high-speed short-range communication used for advanced wireless applications.

Since multiple devices share unlicensed spectrum, interference can be an issue in crowded environments. However, newer technologies like Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7 use AI-driven optimizations to reduce congestion and improve efficiency.