Is Your State and Local Agency Ready for Wi-Fi 7?

The release of Wi-Fi 7 presents users with enhanced possibilities thanks to its faster speeds and improved connectivity. Working with an older version can result in disruptions and delays in service, particularly for state and local agencies who must always be available to better serve citizens. Upgrading to Wi-Fi 7 is necessary for these agencies to avoid disruptions and provide the best public services. However, upgrading requires a comprehensive approach and a well thought out strategy for network optimization.

Wi-Fi 7 brings faster speeds, lower latency and increased capacity to support modern digital environments. State and local agencies, including municipal offices, public safety departments, and educational institutions, benefit significantly from its advanced capabilities.

Key benefits of Wi-Fi 7 include:

• Higher throughput: Supports bandwidth-intensive applications such as AI-driven analytics and real-time video streaming.
• Reduced latency: Enhances performance for mission-critical applications, including public safety communications and emergency response systems.
• Improved security: Introduces WPA3 encryption, offering stronger protection against cyber threats.
• Better spectrum efficiency: Handles more connected devices without interference, making it ideal for high-density environments.

Wi-Fi 7 enhances wireless connectivity, but a robust network infrastructure is necessary to achieve its full capabilities. Agencies must assess and optimize key components of their data centers, including network hardware, cabling, power supply and security frameworks.

1. Upgrading Network Switches

Wi-Fi 7 requires higher power and data throughput than previous generations, requiring new network switches.

• Power over Ethernet (PoE) considerations: Older switches typically provide a maximum of 30W per port, whereas Wi-Fi 7 access points often require more power. Upgrading to newer switches is essential to provide the power that Wi-Fi 7 requires.
• Higher data rates: New switches must support multi-gigabit speeds (2.5G, 5G, or even 10G) to accommodate increased wireless traffic.

2. Cabling and Infrastructure Enhancements

The increased data rates of Wi-Fi 7 may require upgraded cabling between access points and network switches.

• CAT6A or fiber cabling: Some agencies have cabling that supports Wi-Fi 6 and can also support Wi-Fi 7, which can help keep costs down. Make sure to assess your cabling with a network expert to find the right option for your agency.
• Power distribution upgrades: Increased power requirements may necessitate additional power outlets or power distribution units (PDUs) in network closets.

3. Power Management and UPS Considerations

Wi-Fi 7 and its amazing capabilities require more power; agencies need to evaluate their power capabilities and work to strengthen their infrastructure to be able to supply the power demand.

• Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) upgrades: Existing UPS units may not be sufficient to support higher-powered network equipment. Upgrading to lithium-ion UPS solutions can provide longer battery life and improved efficiency.
• Power redundancy: Ensuring backup power sources in critical locations can prevent service disruptions during outages.

4. Security Enhancements

Wi-Fi 7 introduces WPA3 encryption, providing enhanced security measures. Agencies need to ensure their entire network infrastructure is prepared to handle these new security standards.

• Network access controls (NAC): Implementing stronger authentication mechanisms helps prevent unauthorized access.
• Firewall and threat detection upgrades: Improved security features can mitigate risks associated with increased wireless traffic.
• Device compatibility checks: Agencies need to verify that connected devices, including laptops and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, support Wi-Fi 7 to make sure there are no interruptions in operations.

5. Conducting Site Surveys and Network Assessments

Before deploying Wi-Fi 7, agencies should perform detailed site surveys to optimize access point placement and coverage. Wi-Fi 7's new frequencies may struggle to penetrate walls, needing strategic AP placement. Identifying interference sources ensures reliable performance and analyzing device usage now and in the future helps design a scalable network.

Transitioning to Wi-Fi 7 requires a substantial investment. State and local agencies should adopt strategies to optimize value and manage costs. Some strategies include a phased implementation, seeking applicable grants and funding and utilizing Network as a Service.

Wi-Fi 7 offers transformative benefits for state and local agencies, but a successful deployment requires careful planning and network optimization. CDW Government can help you upgrade network switches, cabling, power management and security measures. Our experts with over 25 years of experience can help your agencies to optimize their infrastructure and ensure you stay connected securely and without interruptions or delays.