Wi-Fi HaLow, designated as 802.11ah, is a wireless networking protocol developed under the IEEE 802.11 standard. It's specifically designed for the Internet of Things (IoT) applications. Key features and aspects of Wi-Fi HaLow include:
Sub-GHz Operation: Unlike traditional Wi-Fi that operates in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, Wi-Fi HaLow operates in frequency bands below 1 GHz. This allows for better range and penetration through obstacles like walls and floors.
Extended Range: Wi-Fi HaLow is known for its long-range capabilities, typically offering coverage over several kilometers. This makes it ideal for IoT applications spread over large areas, like agricultural or industrial environments.
Low Power Consumption: Devices using Wi-Fi HaLow are designed for low power usage, which is essential for IoT devices, many of which need to operate for years on a small battery.
High Device Capacity: Wi-Fi HaLow can support thousands of connected devices under a single access point, much more than traditional Wi-Fi. This is particularly important for IoT applications, where many devices are often deployed in a condensed area.
Use Cases: Wi-Fi HaLow is suited for a range of IoT applications, including smart home and building automation, agricultural and environmental sensors, and industrial monitoring.
Compatibility and Security: Wi-Fi HaLow retains the core characteristics of the Wi-Fi protocol, including security protocols and ease of integration with existing Wi-Fi technologies.
Data Rates: While it supports lower data rates compared to conventional Wi-Fi, it's sufficient for the typical data needs of IoT devices, which usually transmit small amounts of data.
In summary, Wi-Fi HaLow extends the versatility of Wi-Fi to IoT applications, offering solutions for long-range, low-power, and high-density connectivity challenges.