PTA has announced the allocation of the 6 Gigahertz (GHz) spectrum band for unlicensed operations, specifically for Radio Local Area Networks (RLAN) in Pakistan.
In a landmark decision, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced the allocation of the 6 Gigahertz (GHz) spectrum band for unlicensed operations, specifically for Radio Local Area Networks (RLAN) in Pakistan.
This move positions Pakistan as the 10th country in the Asia-Pacific region to adopt the 6 GHz spectrum for Wi-Fi, joining a global group of 60 countries that have unlocked this band for Wi-Fi services, either fully or partially.
The announcement was made at an event titled “Unlocking Pakistan’s Connectivity: Enablement of Next-Gen Wi-Fi in 6 GHz Band.” The event featured prominent speakers from various sectors, including META, Dynamic Spectrum Alliance (DSA), Jazz, Nayatel, and Huawei, who discussed the myriad benefits of implementing Wi-Fi 6E in Pakistan.
Major General (R) Hafeez Ur Rehman, Chairman of the PTA, highlighted the significance of this development, noting that it positions Pakistan as a regional leader in next-generation RLAN (Wi-Fi) technology. “This development has positioned Pakistan as a regional frontrunner in embracing next-generation RLAN (Wi-Fi) technology, joining a select group of forward-thinking nations in Asia to unlock the transformative potential of Wi-Fi 6E,” he stated.
Wi-Fi in Pakistan currently operates on two primary bands: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, with available bandwidths of 100 MHz and 150 MHz, respectively. These Industrial, Scientific & Medical (ISM) bands are used by multiple applications, including common household technologies such as microwave ovens, Bluetooth devices, and cordless phones, in addition to Wi-Fi. This overlap has led to congestion and latency issues, which Wi-Fi 6E aims to alleviate.
The new 6 GHz band will provide a significant boost to Pakistan’s digital infrastructure by offering more reliable and high-speed internet access. The introduction of Wi-Fi 6E is expected to enhance the country’s digital capabilities, reducing congestion on existing bands and improving overall internet performance.
Under the government’s vision of “Digital Pakistan,” the PTA’s initiative to unlock the 6 GHz band is a critical step towards fostering digital innovation. This move is expected to empower businesses, bridge the digital divide, and promote a more inclusive digital economy by providing enhanced connectivity solutions.
The event highlighted the potential of Wi-Fi 6E to revolutionize digital experiences in Pakistan. Speakers emphasized that the additional spectrum will enable higher data rates, increased capacity, and improved performance in dense environments. This is particularly important as the demand for internet services continues to grow, driven by the proliferation of smart devices and the increasing need for high-speed connectivity.
Dynamic Spectrum Alliance (DSA) representatives discussed the global impact of adopting the 6 GHz band, noting that countries that have embraced this spectrum have seen significant advancements in their digital ecosystems. They stressed that Wi-Fi 6E will play a crucial role in supporting emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR).
Industry leaders from Jazz and Nayatel underscored the commercial benefits of the 6 GHz band, highlighting how enhanced connectivity will support business operations and innovation. They pointed out that reliable, high-speed internet is essential for economic growth and competitiveness in the global market.
Huawei representatives shared insights on the technical advantages of Wi-Fi 6E, explaining how the increased spectrum will lead to better network efficiency and reduced latency. They also discussed the importance of robust digital infrastructure in supporting the country’s digital transformation goals.
In conclusion, the PTA’s decision to unlock the 6 GHz spectrum band for unlicensed operations marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s journey towards a digitally empowered future. By embracing Wi-Fi 6E, Pakistan is not only enhancing its digital infrastructure but also paving the way for a more connected and inclusive society. This initiative is expected to drive digital innovation, support economic growth, and improve the quality of life for millions of Pakistanis.