What You Should Know About Wi-Fi HaLow

Imagine a smart home where you can control everything from lights to locks and windows just using your computer, smartphone, or tablet. Imagine smart gadgets and wearable devices that could connect to the Internet, and communicate as well as send you information, and even take commands. Imagine smart security in your own office with advanced security systems, IP surveillance cameras, biometric access systems, and wireless burglar alarms? It is not science fiction, it is the Internet of Things (IoT) – a key component of home and office automation that allows objects to be sensed and controlled remotely across existing network infrastructure, which leads to improved accuracy and efficiency.
With the emergence of numerous wireless devices and technologies, such as the NBN Fixed Wireless Plans, online gaming platforms, and streaming video services, conventional Wi-Fi networks are finding it harder to keep up. Maintaining a strong and stable Internet connection both at home and office is more important than ever. Fortunately, the Wi-Fi Alliance recently developed the IEEE 802.11ah standard protocol to support IoT devices. This latest innovation is called the Wi-Fi HaLow. It operates within 900 MHz bandwidth, supports devices equipped for a 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, and can connect to a cloud via standard IP.
Here are other interesting insights about Wi-Fi HaLow technology:
Pros

• It has the ability to operate using very low power, penetrate through walls, and operate at significantly longer ranges than conventional Wi-Fi.
• It enables better connection between a wider range of devices from small battery-operated wearables and gizmos to large agricultural and industrial machines.
• It is designed to meet the unique needs of the smart homes, smart city environments, retail and industrial markets, connected cars technology, and digital healthcare.
• It operates in an unlicensed platform and does not interfere with existing wireless technologies.

Cons

•  It won’t be any good with file transfers — at least not without some upgrades — and like Bluetooth, will serve as a connector, leaving users unable to surf the Internet like on normal Wi-Fi.
• With the extended range and low power consumption, the data speeds may decrease. WiFi HaLow devices will be able to transmit at speeds of 18Mbits/s at most. It can go as low as 150kbit/s depending on the conditions

• As a new Wi-Fi technology, it has to address security issues. One of the main challenges will be to secure all the various implementations of the new protocol.

• The 900 MHz bandwidth is licensed in other countries. This technology may not work everywhere and its adoption by the industry may take time. Wi-Fi HaLow will only be available by 2018.

Stay tuned to learn more useful tips on how to get the best possible connection at home. To know the best internet plans for your home, you can visit our Plan Guru or call  sales on 13 22 88. Our friendly representatives will help you choose the best nbn^® and how to connect.