Draft:802.11bn

802.11bn, branded as Wi-Fi 8, is a future wireless networking standard, succeeding 802.11be (Wi-Fi 7). This amendment to the IEEE 802.11 standard focuses on significant advancements in Wireless LAN Medium Access Control (MAC) and Physical Layer (PHY) specifications, with a particular emphasis on ultra high reliability.

Objectives
The primary goal of the IEEE 802.11bn amendment is to enhance the performance and reliability of wireless networks. Key enhancements include:


 * Increased throughput: Implementing a mode that boosts throughput by at least 25% compared to the previous Extremely High Throughput MAC/PHY operation.
 * Latency reduction: Introducing a mode that cuts down latency by 25% for the 95th percentile of latency distribution, again in comparison to its predecessor.
 * MPDU loss reduction: Developing a mode that lowers MAC Protocol Data Unit (MPDU) loss by 25%, particularly aiding transitions between Basic Service Sets (BSSs).

The amendment also aims to reduce power consumption in Access Points (APs), including those that are mobile, and to improve Peer-to-Peer (P2P) functionality. It spans a frequency range from 1 GHz to 7.250 GHz and is designed to be backward compatible with existing IEEE 802.11 devices across 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz unlicensed bands.

Development status
As of January 2024, 802.11bn is in its early stages of development. A working group has been established to define and achieve the set goals, but substantial work remains before the standard can be finalized and implemented.

=== Project Timeline ===


 * PAR Approval: September 21, 2023.
 * First Meeting: November 2023.
 * Draft Development: Planned from January 2025 onwards.
 * Final Approval: Targeted for May 2028.