With the first Wi-Fi 7-enabled iPhone launching this fall, SMBs should assess their networks now to capture faster speeds, higher capacity and fully wireless workspaces.
Jason Palkovics is a hybrid infrastructure specialist working with CDW's integrated technology services. Jason brings a passion for connecting small businesses to their customers while navigating new demands for how technology can be utilized.
Wi-Fi 7 is about to hit a tipping point. On Sept. 19, Apple will release the first iPhone supporting the new standard, marking the start of broader adoption. Up until now, there’s been very limited device availability so not everyone can take advantage of Wi-Fi 7 but that’s about to change.
In the coming months, we’re going to see more aggressive adoption, so now is the time to get started.
What Wi-Fi 7 Offers Users
The bandwidth leap from Wi-Fi 6/6E to Wi-Fi 7 is significant. While Wi-Fi 6 tops out around 10 gigabits per second, Wi-Fi 7 can reach a theoretical maximum of 40 to 45Gbps. That kind of throughput allows wireless to become a true primary network infrastructure, not just a supplement to wired connectivity. For some SMBs, this could mean reducing cabling to only certain devices like printers or essential legacy systems.
Beyond speed, Wi-Fi 7 access points can handle more simultaneous connections with less delay. This is a game changer for high-density environments like clinics, event spaces, cafés or conference rooms, which are often packed with people using laptops and mobile devices.
I always tell people, plan for your busiest day. If your network works when it absolutely has to, then you can be confident that it can handle anything.
Is There Backward Compatibility With Legacy Hardware?
Modern devices will work fine on Wi-Fi 7. But true legacy hardware that is 10 years old or more may face compatibility issues and hold back performance.
The second-most overlooked area is switching infrastructure. If your wired backbone can’t handle the speed of Wi-Fi 7, your investment won’t deliver. Think of it like having a Formula 1-ready road that ends in a dirt driveway.
CDW’s site surveys can help map access point placement and coverage. Teams also need to align on goals, such as whether they want support for augmented reality/virtual reality, a fully mobile workforce or improved customer service.
CDW’sinfrastructure check can ensure that switches support multi-gig speeds; otherwise, Wi-Fi 7 benefits will be capped. A device review can check to see which equipment can use the new standard now and what upgrades are coming. And a security posture update can address how to handle increased wireless access and mobility.
Why Delaying an Upgrade Could Cost You
Wi-Fi 7 may not be a must-have today; however, SMBs that delay too long may find themselves unprepared and chasing the competition if they’re too slow to adopt.
For one, there are rising hardware costs to consider. As more companies shift to wireless-first networks, manufacturers may scale back production of traditional switching equipment. Lower production volumes can push up prices for businesses clinging to older architectures.
Second, there’s often an infrastructure mismatch. Building or renovating offices without Wi-Fi 7 in mind could leave you paying more later to retrofit for higher speeds and device capacity.
And last, waiting to upgrade may mean that you cannot take full advantage of emerging technologies such as AI, immersive tech and cloud-based applications. Your infrastructure becomes a bottleneck when you’re ready to adopt new tools.
