Toufic Kourbeh

WiFi 7, also known as IEEE 802.11be, represents the next significant evolution in wireless networking technology. Among its many innovative features, the Multi-Link Operation (MLO) stands out as a game-changer poised to revolutionize the customer experience. MLO promises to enhance network performance, reliability, and efficiency by allowing devices to operate on multiple frequency bands simultaneously. This article delves into the intricacies of the MLO feature in WiFi 7 and explores how it is expected to transform how consumers interact with wireless networks.

Understanding WiFi 7 and MLO

WiFi 7 builds upon the advancements of its predecessor, WiFi 6 (802.11ax), by offering higher data rates, lower latency, and improved capacity. One pivotal feature that sets WiFi 7 apart from Previous generations is Multi-Link Operation (MLO). Unlike previous WiFi standards, where devices typically connect to a single frequency band at a time (either 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz or the newly introduced 6 GHz), MLO enables devices to utilize multiple bands simultaneously. It also allows different configurations for such simultaneous connections, which can maximize the throughput depending on the configuration.

MLO allows a WiFi 7 device to establish multiple links across different frequency bands. This multi-band capability can significantly enhance data throughput, reduce latency, and improve overall network resilience. For example, a device could use the 5 GHz band for high-speed data transmission while maintaining a link on the 2.4 GHz band for more stable, long-range connectivity. This dual-link setup ensures the other can maintain a reliable connection even if one band experiences interference or congestion.

Enhanced Data Throughput

One of the most immediate benefits of MLO is the substantial increase in data throughput. WiFi 7 can achieve aggregate data rates far exceeding those of previous WiFi generations by leveraging multiple frequency bands simultaneously. This enhancement is particularly beneficial in environments with a high density of connected devices, such as smart homes, offices, and public spaces.

This means faster download and upload speeds for consumers, smoother high-definition and 4K\8K or even XR content streaming, and more responsive online gaming experiences. The ability to seamlessly combine multiple bands ensures that the available spectrum is used more efficiently, maximizing the potential of the wireless network.

Reduced Latency

Latency, the time it takes for data to travel from the source to the destination, is a critical factor in wireless network performance. WiFi 7’s MLO feature significantly reduces latency by allowing devices to send and receive data over the most optimal path. By dynamically selecting the best combination of frequency bands, MLO minimizes the delays caused by congestion or interference on any single band.

This reduction in latency is particularly beneficial for real-time applications such as video conferencing, online gaming, and virtual reality. In a gaming scenario, lower latency translates to quicker response times, providing a more immersive and competitive experience. Similarly, in video conferencing, reduced latency ensures more natural and fluid communication, enhancing remote collaboration.

Improved Network Reliability

Network reliability is another area where MLO shines. In traditional single-band operations, any interference or signal degradation on that band can result in a loss of connectivity or reduced performance. MLO mitigates this issue by maintaining multiple active links, providing redundancy that enhances the network’s overall reliability.

If one band encounters interference or a drop in signal quality, the device can seamlessly switch to another band without interrupting the connection. This redundancy is particularly valuable in environments with high RF interference, such as urban or industrial settings. This translates to fewer dropped connections and more consistent network performance for consumers, even in challenging conditions.

Better Spectrum Utilization

A core benefit of MLO is the efficient use of available spectrum. WiFi 7 can better use the wireless spectrum by dynamically distributing data across multiple bands, reducing congestion and improving overall network efficiency. This is particularly important as the number of connected devices grows, increasing demands on the available spectrum.

Better spectrum utilization means a smoother and more efficient network experience for consumers. In a household with multiple devices streaming video, gaming, and performing other bandwidth-intensive tasks simultaneously, MLO can ensure that each device receives the necessary bandwidth without causing congestion or slowdowns.

Near – Conclusion

WiFi 7’s Multi-Link Operation (MLO) feature represents a significant leap forward in wireless networking technology. By enabling devices to operate on multiple frequency bands simultaneously, MLO enhances data throughput, reduces latency, improves network reliability, and ensures better spectrum utilization. These advancements are expected to transform the customer experience across various domains, from smart homes and remote work to online gaming and virtual reality. Just imagine the ability to aggregate 10 Gbps throughput to a single device.; whether for local or online applications such as online gaming streaming or education, MLO is a fantastic technology.

As WiFi 7 technology becomes more widely adopted, consumers can look forward to faster, more reliable, and more efficient wireless networks that cater to the increasing demands of modern digital lifestyles. Whether streaming high-definition content, engaging in real-time online gaming, or ensuring the seamless operation of smart home devices, WiFi 7 and its MLO feature are set to redefine how we experience wireless connectivity.

But the reality hits again.

We are in mid-2024, and a quick look at the market and state of the networks provided by MNOs and MSOs in the US brings me to reality. At the Verizon store, three or four MLO devices can be used. The same goes for T-Mobile.

And unless you have a fiber connection to your home that exceeds 2 Gbps, would you feel the difference between MLO and SLO (Single Link Operation) performance on WiFi 7?

Most importantly, the backhaul to the internet, with speeds below 1 Gbps and SLO on WiFi7, can easily achieve your backhaul speeds. Does this mean the technology is premature? How many households in the US have more than 2 Gbps connection?

I say yes! It is a premature technology in 2024, but specific applications, such as robotics and remote medical surgery robots, can experiment on MLO; today, MLO is perfect. Let’s look at the technical specifications for Apple’s Vision Pro to realize that WiFi is still enough for many complicated applications, such as rendering, designing, gaming, streaming, and Mixed Reality.

In two years, though, it will be a different story. MLO will have more penetration in the Stations and Handset markets; we will probably have more than one Windows adapter that supports MLO, and maybe Apple will release new products with WiFi7 and MLO support. Until then, we can still evolve with MLO.

Toufic Kourbeh