At the onset of 2020, the Wi-Fi landscape was undergoing a period of rapid evolution, characterized by significant advancements and dynamic shifts in the underlying technology that powers wireless connectivity. The introduction of Wi-Fi 6, a groundbreaking upgrade from its predecessors, had just begun to gain substantial traction and widespread acceptance among both consumers and businesses. This new standard brought with it a host of improvements that promised not only faster internet speeds but also enhanced efficiency in data transmission and the remarkable ability to manage multiple devices connected to the network simultaneously. These features made Wi-Fi 6 an increasingly attractive option for a wide range of environments, from the bustling, high-density areas of urban centers, where network congestion is a common issue, to the more serene and spacious settings of suburban homes, where seamless connectivity is highly valued.
Moreover, the rise of mesh Wi-Fi systems added another layer of innovation to the evolving landscape. These systems operate by utilizing multiple access points strategically placed throughout an entire home or building to ensure uninterrupted and consistent coverage. This approach was steadily gaining importance as it proved to be exceptionally valuable for achieving comprehensive whole-home coverage. In larger spaces, where a single traditional router might struggle to provide a strong signal to every corner, mesh systems offered a solution that could effectively eliminate dead zones and enhance the overall user experience. Such advancements were particularly beneficial in a time when reliable and robust internet connectivity had become more critical than ever before.
However, with the onset of the global pandemic around February/March 2020, the trajectory of these trends experienced a dramatic shift. Certain trends were accelerated as the world adapted to new norms, such as remote working and online learning, necessitating robust and reliable internet connectivity. Conversely, some advancements were impeded by supply chain disruptions and reallocation of resources to meet urgent needs. The stage was set for redefined future use-cases, market forecasts, and the demands of product development and testing. This eBook delves deeply into both the short- and long-term developments in the realm of Wi-Fi, placing a specific emphasis on the question "what's changed?" rather than merely retracing the footsteps of previous baseline trends. It seeks to provide a comprehensive analysis of how these unprecedented times have reshaped the Wi-Fi landscape and what this means for the future.
