The evolution of Wi-Fi technology has been remarkable, with various versions offering increased speed, coverage, and security. Branded as Wi-Fi 6, the 802.11ax standard is one of the most recent and significant upgrades in this realm, having gone live in 2019. Along with enhanced security measures, Wi-Fi 6 promises users improved performance and wider coverage, ensuring a seamless online experience. While Windows 11 and 10 are equipped to recognize this advanced standard, it’s worth noting that not all systems come with an adapter that supports it. Understanding your computer’s Wi-Fi version is pivotal as it offers insights into its connectivity capabilities and additional features. If you find yourself uncertain about how to discern your PC’s Wi-Fi version, fret not! This risewindows guide is tailor-made to steer you through the process.
The information provided is designed to clarify the various versions of Wi-Fi connections. The original IEEE standards, such as 802.11, 802.11b, etc., have been renamed to simpler Wi-Fi versions for easier understanding by the general public.
Below is a list of the IEEE standards and their corresponding Wi-Fi versions. Once you’ve familiarized yourself with them, we’ll proceed to the next steps:-
- 802.11 – Wi-Fi 0
- 802.11b – Wi-Fi 1
- 802.11a – Wi-Fi 2
- 802.11g – Wi-Fi 3
- 802.11n – Wi-Fi 4
- 802.11ac – Wi-Fi 5
- 802.11ax – Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E
- 802.11be – Wi-Fi 7
As previously discussed, Wi-Fi 6, also known as AX Wi-Fi or 802.11ax Wi-Fi, represents the 6th generation of Wi-Fi. Naturally, it boasts several improvements over its predecessors.
This version is engineered to guarantee that every device connected to the network benefits from higher data rates. If you’re considering an upgrade to Wi-Fi 6, it’s essential first to determine if your system is compatible with it.
A standout feature of Wi-Fi 6 is its ability to alleviate network congestion, allowing users to connect an increased number of devices to a single network without a hitch.
One of the core technologies it employs is MU-MIMO (multi-user, multiple-input, multiple-output), enabling a Wi-Fi router to engage in simultaneous communication with multiple devices.
How to Check Wi-Fi Version on Windows 11 or 10 using Command Prompt?
To check the Wi-Fi version on Windows 11 or 10 using the Command Prompt, follow these steps:-
Step 1: First, open Command Prompt.
Step 2: After that, copy and paste the following and press Enter:-
netsh wlan show drivers
Step 3: Look for the line that says “Radio types supported.” This will list the Wi-Fi versions supported by your wireless adapter.
Step 4: For instance, if you see “802.11ac” in the list, your computer supports Wi-Fi 5. If “802.11ax” is listed, it means your computer supports Wi-Fi 6.
Step 5: After noting down the supported Wi-Fi versions, you can close the Command Prompt or PowerShell window.
By following these steps, you can determine which Wi-Fi versions your Windows 10 or 11 system can support.
How to Find your Windows 11 PC Connected to which Wi-Fi Protocol?
To determine which Wi-Fi protocol your Windows 11 PC is currently connected to, follow these steps:-
Step 1: Begin by opening Windows 10 Settings.
Step 2: After that, click on Network & Internet.
Step 3: Now, switch to the right sidebar. Find Wi-Fi under the “Network & Internet” section.
Step 4: Go to the Hardware properties link on the Wi-Fi settings page and click it.
Step 5: In the following screen, beside the “Protocol” field, you can see the Wi-Fi version you’re using. For example, my PC is connected to Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n).
There you go. A few simple steps and the problem is solved.
Conclusion
Wi-Fi technology has seen significant advancements over the years, with Wi-Fi 6 being one of the most recent and impactful. This guide has provided clarity on how the IEEE standards correlate with the renamed Wi-Fi versions, making it simpler for users. Moreover, it has shed light on how to determine the Wi-Fi version your Windows 10 or 11 system supports and the protocol your Windows 11 PC is currently connected to. By familiarizing yourself with these steps, you can ensure that your system’s connectivity is optimized and future-ready.
