Introduction
I have been using cloud backups for years to ensure my important files are safe and secure. However, the process of backing up large amounts of data to the cloud can be tedious and time-consuming, especially on older WiFi standards. This year, the widespread launch of WiFi 6 gives me hope for faster and more efficient cloud backups. In this article, I will explain what WiFi 6 is, how it differs from previous standards, and why its features like higher bandwidth and faster speeds will significantly improve cloud backups.
What is WiFi 6?
WiFi 6, also known as 802.11ax, is the latest generation of WiFi technology. It builds on previous standards like 802.11ac by incorporating several key improvements:
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Faster top speeds – WiFi 6 supports maximum theoretical speeds up to 9.6 Gbps, nearly 3x faster than 802.11ac. This means higher throughput for devices.
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Increased bandwidth – WiFi 6 uses wider channels up to 160 MHz, doubling the bandwidth of 802.11ac. More data can be transmitted at once.
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More simultaneous connections – With advanced technologies like OFDMA, WiFi 6 can handle many more devices connected concurrently without slowing down.
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Better efficiency – Technologies like TWT schedule device transmissions efficiently, leading to longer battery life.
Overall, WiFi 6 delivers major upgrades in speed, bandwidth, and connectivity over previous versions. As it becomes more widely adopted in routers and devices, it will bring noticeable improvements to our wireless experiences.
How WiFi 6 Improves Cloud Backups
Backing up large amounts of data to the cloud over WiFi has always been a double-edged sword. You gain awesome benefits like offsite protection and anywhere access. But slow uploads make the process painfully long.
WiFi 6 helps solve these problems in a few key ways:
Faster Upload Speeds
With top speeds up to 9.6 Gbps, WiFi 6 simply uploads data much faster than older versions. For example, on 802.11ac I might max out around 400 Mbps for uploads. With WiFi 6, I can hit 900 Mbps or higher, cutting the backup time significantly.
Increased Bandwidth
More bandwidth on WiFi 6 means I can transfer more data simultaneously. So those large backup files queue up and move through the pipe faster, rather than waiting their turn one-by-one.
Support for More Devices
We have more and more smart home devices that need occasional cloud backups like security cameras, smart speakers, etc. WiFi 6 supports way more concurrent devices, so all these can back up smoothly without congestion or slow downs.
Improved Signal Strength
WiFi 6 introduces new technologies like OFDMA and 1024-QAM that help boost signal strength and deliver faster speeds even in challenging areas like my far corner office. Reliable signals mean smoother backups.
Longer Battery Life
By scheduling device transmissions efficiently, WiFi 6 uses less power for uploading data. So devices like laptops don’t get drained as quickly, allowing longer backup sessions.
Real-World Examples and Expectations
To give a real-world idea of how WiFi 6 enhances cloud backups, here are some examples and expectations:
Faster Full Backups
My typical full MacBook backup is around 150 GB. On my 802.11ac network, this takes 6-8 hours to fully upload. With WiFi 6, I expect full backups to take 2-3 hours, 3x faster!
Quicker Incremental Backups
I run incremental Mac backups daily, usually around 2-5 GB. On 802.11ac, each backup takes 15-20 minutes. With WiFi 6, I expect 5-10 minutes for the same incremental backup, cutting the time in half.
Smoother Device Backups
I back up my iPhone and iPad whenever on WiFi. On 802.11ac, they individually take 30-60 minutes each time. With WiFi 6, multiple devices will smoothly backup together in the same timeframe.
Less Backup Interruptions
My WiFi signal degrades in some rooms, interrupting backups. WiFi 6’s improved range and speed will mean fewer interruptions and stalls, even in difficult areas.
While exact speeds will vary, WiFi 6 clearly brings major advantages to cloud backups. I expectBACKUP and restore times to significantly improve this year across devices.
Final Thoughts on WiFi 6 and Cloud Backups
In summary, upgrading to WiFi 6 this year will be a huge boost for my cloud backups. With its faster speeds, increased bandwidth, and smoother connectivity, WiFi 6 helps solve the biggest headaches of backing up over WiFi. Large backups will complete much quicker, incremental backups barely take any time, and multiple devices can backup smoothly together. As WiFi 6 routers and devices become mainstream in 2023, I’m excited to see my backup workflow get easier and more automated. The benefits definitely justify upgrading my network to WiFi 6!
