In a positive development for broadband internet users, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has removed the restrictions on sharing the 6 GHz band spectrum. The commission has made the 5925 to 6425 MHz frequency range available for shared use across Wi-Fi, IoT, wireless LAN, and cellular mobile networks. This move was confirmed through a circular issued by Dr. Md. Sohel Rana, Director of the Spectrum Division, on Sunday.
According to the circular, commercial services using this band will require frequency allocation, import of radio equipment, and prior approval from the commission.
Dr. Md. Sohel Rana noted that this initiative will enhance the capabilities of service providers and reduce latency for broadband internet users. He explained that the release of the 6 GHz band spectrum will boost the capacity of edge devices used in internet technology, which will help meet growing demand.
Previously, Wi-Fi routers, IoT, and other devices operated within the 2.4 GHz (2400-2483 MHz) and 5.7 GHz (5725-5875 MHz) bands, which offered limited bandwidth of 83 MHz and 125 MHz, respectively. This was insufficient to meet the increasing demand for internet services. To address this, BTRC has released 500 MHz of spectrum in the 5925-6425 MHz range for shared use, allowing broadband users to enjoy higher internet speeds via Wi-Fi networks.
Sumon Ahmed Sabir, CTO of Fiber@Home, welcomed the decision, stating that internet service providers will now find it easier to offer wireless internet services through Wi-Fi routers. He noted that the previous 2.4 and 5.7 GHz bands were congested and unable to meet customer demand. With this free bandwidth, there will be significant improvements in the speed and performance of broadband services, particularly for home Wi-Fi users.
Saiful Islam Siddique, Managing Director of ICC Communication, also praised the move, noting that this spectrum could help bring broadband networks to riverbank areas, remote regions, and places lacking NTTN networks. However, as the system operates on a line-of-sight basis, network obstructions must be avoided. By utilizing this unlicensed frequency, applications like point-to-point, point-to-multipoint, and mesh networks could be deployed, enabling the expansion of fixed wireless broadband networks in areas without NTTN infrastructure.
