IN THIS ARTICLE
Creating a Compatible WiFi Network
A compatible WiFi network includes your router, modem, WiFi devices, and internet service provider (ISP) all optimised for superior network performance. Is your current WiFi network capable of handling new WiFi 7-enabled devices?
The best WiFi 7 routers and mesh systems are backward compatible, meaning your older WiFi 5, WiFi 6, and WiFi 6E devices will function as usual when paired with a WiFi 7 router. The full WiFi 7 benefits will be progressively appreciated as you upgrade your network devices.
* Consider the gift of a WiFi 7 router in 2024.
Hottest WiFi-Enabled Tech Gifts of the Season
Smartphones
Apple iPhone 16 Series – The iPhone 16 helps get things done effortlessly with wireless connectivity. iPhone 16 includes WiFi 7 capabilities for high-resolution streaming and robust privacy protections.
Android Phones – Android smartphones like the Samsung S24+ include high-resolution zoom cameras with AI-enhanced editing. The adaptive mobile display puts wireless power in your hands.
Tablets and Laptops
MacBooks and iPads – Run data-intensive applications that can keep up with your imagination. The MacBook Pro with WiFi 7 renders images faster with lower latency for a more immersive and realistic experience.
Windows Laptops – There are many great Windows laptops to choose from in 2024. These include the Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2, boasting 1 TB of storage and an Intel Core CPU for advanced gaming, creating, and professional use.
Gaming Consoles
PlayStation 5– The new PlayStation 5 console offers unparalleled speed to handle stunning high-bandwidth 4K/8K streaming. Immerse yourself in the latest adventures and sports challenges using precision PS5 controllers.
Xbox Series X/S – This next-gen Xbox redefines reality with cloud gaming and multiplayer experiences. Xbox Series X/S boasts blazing-fast speeds and unparalleled performance for the latest WiFi 7-enabled games and gadgets.
Nintendo Switch – A fun introduction to gaming. The Nintendo Switch OLED screen makes colors vivid, and Switch includes enhanced audio for wireless online multiplayer games. Take Nintendo Switch with you on your family holidays.
Smart TVs and Streaming Devices
Brands like Samsung and LG – Leading smart TVs use OLED graphics that bring movies to life. Samsung and LG smart TVs harmonise high-quality sound and vision, with the potential for WiFi 7 8K streaming and smart home integration.
Streaming Sticks – Aussies travel a lot, and streaming sticks are an ideal stocking stuffer gift idea. Streaming sticks range from affordable 4K sticks to comprehensive home entertainment hubs offering instant access to online entertainment with seamless content delivery.
Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Devices
VR Headsets – Explore thousands of mixed reality experiences with devices such as Meta Quest 3S, where VR digital objects dial up the immersion in the room around you. Connect with a WiFi 7 router or WiFi mesh system for faster speeds and total control.
AR Glasses – Artificial Intelligence has been introduced into AR glasses, although the technology is still being developed. The future looks bright for Oculus Quest 3 and ORION AR glasses that sync with future-proofed multi-gigabit WiFi 7 router technology.
Smart Home Devices
Smart Thermostats and Locks – WiFi 7-enabled smart homes make life convenient and secure. The average Australian smart home includes 24+ IoT devices such as thermostats and locks that can be controlled, adjusted, and monitored remotely.
Home Security Systems – Constant surveillance is made easy with wireless home security. There are no cables, as the cameras and mics relay security information wirelessly in real time to your smartphone or computer.
* Older routers struggle to handle lots of devices in concurrent use. An upgrade to a WiFi 7 router will ensure optimal performance and compatibility for all connected devices in your network.
Increased Bandwidth Demands: Is Your Network Up to the Task?
Today’s Aussie WiFi networks include high-performance devices that the Gbps data rate capacity of older routers can’t handle. Buffering, lag, and dropped connections are the result. In addition, outdated WiFi equipment won’t be capable of addressing some security vulnerabilities. WiFi 7, introduced by the WiFi Alliance and IEEE in 2023, is the latest WiFi standard with extremely high throughput and enhanced backhaul.
The benefits of WiFi 7 include the use of the 2.4GHz band, 5GHz band, and 6GHz band. WiFi 7 has 320MHz channel width to achieve twice the bandwidth of WiFi 6/6E. WiFi 7 uses multi-link operation (MLO), preamble puncturing, and 4K QAM (4096-QAM) to dramatically increase speeds and improve device performance. New standard WiFi 7 retains important features of earlier WiFi standards such as OFDMA and MU-MIMO. An upgrade to a WiFi 7 router will ensure your holiday season gifts are ready to perform to their potential.
Why It’s Essential to Upgrade Your WiFi Network
Quad-band and tri-band WiFi 7 routers are backward compatible with older devices, allowing you to expand your network over time. WiFi technology moves fast, making the quantum leap to WiFi 7 a smart move to future-proof your home. If yours is a larger home, consider a WiFi mesh system. These systems include the main WiFi 7 router access point and multiple WiFi 7 router satellites with ultra-low latency, so you can scale the WiFi network to suit your needs.
Advanced internet security is an essential component of a WiFi upgrade. The best WiFi 7 routers and mesh systems include built-in security systems powered by Bitdefender with WPA3 encryption, VPN, and Qualcomm CPU. Optional WiFi 7 features include Parental Controls and Target Wake Time to protect your family and client devices. Connect wirelessly or via the built-in Ethernet ports for specific home network devices.
Don't Let Outdated WiFi Hold You Back
Powerful tech gifts and gadgets are in demand, but they should connect with an advanced WiFi router for the best possible user experience. An upgrade to a WiFi 7 router will elevate WiFi 7-enabled holiday gifts to the next level of enjoyment. Choose NETGEAR WiFi 7 and don’t let outdated WiFi hold you back!
You probably know by now that WiFi 7 offers the best WiFi connection for gaming consoles, video streaming, smart TVs, and smart home devices. For holiday season inspiration with all the best of WiFi 7, look no further than NETGEAR WiFi solutions that will maximise your new devices’ potential.
WiFi 7 networking equipment will help you get the most out of new wireless technology. Consider NETGEAR WiFi solutions for gaming, streaming, networking, and holiday gift-giving like never before!
