6 GHz spectrum to be split between mobile and Wi-Fi services

Telecoms regulator Ofcom aims to split the 6 GHz band between mobile and Wi-Fi services to enable the first shared spectrum model in Europe.

The regulator’s publication offers a roadmap for managing increasingly dense wireless environments. By adopting a shared framework rather than awarding the entire band to a single technology, Ofcom seeks to balance the immediate availability of Wi-Fi hardware with the capacity requirements of mobile network operators (MNOs).

This structure affects procurement strategies for Wi-Fi 7 infrastructure and influences how organisations plan for future private mobile networks.

Hybrid spectrum model for the 6 GHz band

Debate regarding 6 GHz allocation typically centres on the Wi-Fi industry, which advocates for licence-exempt access to support gigabit speeds indoors, versus the mobile industry, which asserts that additional mid-band spectrum is required for urban capacity and future 6G networks.

Ofcom proposes a ‘prioritised band split’ for the upper 6 GHz band (6425-7125 MHz). Under this framework, the lower 160 MHz (6425-6585 MHz) will be prioritised for Wi-Fi use. The remaining 540 MHz (6585-7125 MHz) is designated as a ‘mobile priority’ portion.

The proposal coincides with the UK’s expanding full-fibre rollout, where broadband infrastructure often outpaces the capacity of current in-home and office wireless airwaves.

For enterprises, preserving the 160 MHz block for Wi-Fi is operationally relevant. It enables the deployment of wider channels – specifically 80 MHz, 160 MHz, and potentially 320 MHz channels – that are necessary for high-throughput applications such as augmented reality (AR) in engineering or high-density video conferencing.

While the mobile industry gains priority in the larger upper portion of the 6 GHz band, Ofcom intends to allow Wi-Fi access to this spectrum on an opportunistic basis. Corporate networks could utilise the full band in locations where mobile networks have not deployed, such as indoor enterprise environments or rural logistics hubs.

Automated frequency coordination as an enabler

The technical mechanism enabling this shared access is Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC). This database-driven system prevents interference between new users and incumbent services, such as fixed links and radio astronomy.

AFC differs from static spectrum licensing. Devices query a central database to determine permissible frequencies and power levels for their specific location. This allows Ofcom to authorise higher power and outdoor Wi-Fi use in the lower 6 GHz band immediately, improving connectivity for large venues, university campuses, and industrial parks.

For logistics and manufacturing, allowing higher power outdoor Wi-Fi (up to 36 dBm EIRP) resolves limitations of 5 GHz networks, which often struggle to penetrate building shells or cover outdoor storage yards.

Ofcom notes that AFC is already in use in the US and Canada. Adopting a similar framework allows UK enterprises to benefit from economies of scale regarding hardware availability. The regulator is consulting on technical conditions for AFC implementation, to be provided by third-party database operators rather than Ofcom.

Timing and equipment availability

Wi-Fi equipment capable of operating in the 6 GHz band is available today, whereas mobile equipment for this spectrum band is expected to reach mass market availability around 2030.

To prevent spectrum from remaining unused, Ofcom proposes that existing low power Wi-Fi technology be able to use the upper portion of the spectrum by the end of 2026. This ‘seeding’ of the market allows enterprises to refresh device fleets with compatible hardware now, ensuring readiness when network infrastructure regulations are finalised.

This removes a potential bottleneck for CIOs planning hardware refresh cycles. Devices purchased currently will comply with future spectrum access rules, protecting capital expenditure.

Mobile priority layer

While Wi-Fi gains immediate access, the decision safeguards long-term expansion for public cellular networks. Ofcom identifies the upper 540 MHz as necessary for increasing capacity in ‘high density’ urban areas where existing mobile bands may face congestion by the end of the decade.

Mobile operators currently face capacity challenges in high-traffic environments such as train stations and stadiums, where user density strains existing networks. The licensing model for this mobile priority portion will differ from previous nationwide auctions. Ofcom intends to use a sub-national approach, awarding licences specifically for high-traffic zones. Outside these zones, the spectrum may be available for local licensing or continued Wi-Fi use via AFC.

This distinction matters for enterprises considering private 5G. The localised licensing model could offer opportunities for businesses to acquire spectrum for private cellular networks in areas where national operators do not deploy, although Ofcom will consult further on specific mechanisms in spring 2026.

Operational challenges and coexistence in the 6 GHz spectrum band

Implementing this shared spectrum environment introduces operational complexity. The hybrid model relies on the AFC system protecting incumbent users. There are approximately 500 fixed point-to-point links in the upper 6 GHz band, used by sectors including utilities, finance, and transport.

IT leaders in these sectors must ensure existing infrastructure is registered correctly in the licensing database to ensure protection from new Wi-Fi interference. Ofcom’s analysis suggests that with accurate data, AFC can maintain necessary separation distances (potentially up to 100km in worst-case scenarios, though often much less) to prevent service degradation.

Furthermore, the introduction of ‘Very Low Power’ (VLP) Wi-Fi devices in the lower 160 MHz block supports the emerging ecosystem of wearable technology and AR glasses. These devices operate without AFC control but at power levels (up to 15 dBm EIRP) deemed low enough to avoid interference. This supports innovation in field service and training applications without requiring complex network integration.

Ofcom’s proposal attempts to maximise the economic utility of the spectrum. By allowing Wi-Fi to use the band now while preserving rights for mobile operators later, the regulator avoids reserving capacity for a technology ecosystem that does not yet exist.

David Willis, Group Director for Spectrum at Ofcom, commented: “Sharing upper 6 GHz would be a win for businesses and homes across the country who want both better Wi-Fi and mobile networks that are fit for the future. And our decision on lower 6 GHz will boost broadband services across the UK.

“Our plans open the doors to further economic growth and investment, while supporting the delivery of crucial innovations like 6G in the future.”

The consultation remains open for responses until 20 March 2026. However, the direction of travel is defined: a flexible, database-managed spectrum environment that prioritises immediate utility over exclusivity.

See also: 6G networks will host AI agents to automate enterprise workflows

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Tags: 5G, broadband, connectivity, europe, infrastructure, mobile, networks, ofcom, regulation, spectrum, telecoms, uk, wi-fi