This section describes how the Zebra device's band-connectivity preferences interoperate within the Wi-Fi 6E ecosystem.
In co-located multiband deployments, a 5 GHz network might show better RSSI compared to the 6 GHz band in some places due to factors such as differences in transmit power. RSSI for a 6 GHz network might appear lower compared to a 5 GHz network, as an AP in 6GHz may be transmitting Beacons and Probe responses at a lower transmit power in a 20 MHz bandwidth.
Even in that case, 6 GHz-supported client devices should ideally prefer the 6 GHz band since it will have cleaner channels and it can support higher bandwidth for enhanced performance. By default, Zebra devices will prefer 6 GHz over 5 GHz up to a certain coverage level.
In some cases, legacy band APs may show better RSSI than 6 GHz band APs due to frequency and transmit power differences.
Even if the 6 GHz AP RSSI is slightly lower than legacy band APs, it can still be a better candidate for roam if all parameters for a stable connection are considered. Zebra devices evaluate the candidate APs based on RSSI and other parameters so that the device always stays in the 6 GHz band.
With the arrival of Wi-Fi 6E, the expectation is that enterprises will modify their network layout such that corporate networks will be present in both 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands. Legacy clients will use the 5 GHz band for connectivity, and Wi-Fi 6E clients can utilize the 6 GHz band for an improved connectivity experience.
When a client device enters a coverage area, the band preference capability of Zebra devices makes sure that 6 GHz-capable devices are getting connected in the 6 GHz band and continue to stay in the same band when the device is moving within the coverage area.
The graphic below shows a device entering the coverage area of a 5 GHz/6 GHz network and then roaming to another AP. This illustrates the 6 GHz band preference feature. In real deployments, the actual coverage area might not be circular.
