The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) proposes a regulatory approach that addresses the growing need for Wi-Fi spectrum capacity.

The FCC proposed to make up to 1200 megahertz of spectrum available for use by unlicensed devices in the 6 GHz band (5.925-7.125 GHz).

In the past 20 years, the demand for Wi-Fi connectivity has increased manifold while unlicensed access to critically important mid-band spectrum has remained relatively unchanged. With today's action, the FCC took step towards preserving broadband wireless connectivity for Americans and creating new opportunities for the next generation of Wi-Fi.

The proposed rules are designed to allow unlicensed devices to operate in the 6 GHz band without interfering with the operation of the licensed services that will continue to use this spectrum. In those portions of the 6 GHz band that are heavily used by point-to-point microwave links, the FCC proposes to allow unlicensed devices to operate where permitted by an automated frequency coordination system and invites comment as to whether this is necessary for devices operated only indoors.

In the other portions of the band where licensed mobile services, such as the Broadcast Auxiliary Service and Cable Television Relay Service, operate, the unlicensed devices would be restricted to indoor operations at lower power.

These proposed rules will allow a valuable spectrum resource to be more intensively used to benefit consumers while allowing the existing licensed uses of the 6 GHz band to continue uninterrupted.