Distinguish generations from bands first
Wi-Fi 6, 6E and 7 refer to Wi-Fi technology generations; 6 GHz is a radio band; 6G usually refers to sixth-generation mobile communications. Specify equipment models, bands and local compliance requirements when selecting equipment, rather than relying on names.
How are 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz and 6 GHz regulated?
| Band / Range | Regulatory approach | Engineering considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 2.400–2.4835GHz | Licence exemption applies when the conditions are met | Must still meet applicable requirements such as HKCA 1039 |
| 5.150–5.350GHz | Licence exemption applies when the conditions are met | Generally restricted to indoor use; special in-vehicle use has separate conditions |
| 5.470–5.725GHz 5.725–5.850GHz | Licence exemption applies when the conditions are met | Technical requirements differ by sub-band |
| Specified lower 6 GHz band | Class Licence for 6 GHz Devices | See below for operating ranges and LPI/VLP categories |
| 6.425–7.125GHz | Not permitted for Wi-Fi use | Do not copy overseas settings that use the entire 6 GHz band |
Source:HKCA 1039 Issue 7 (August 2024) ↗；OFCA | Smart Choice of Wi-Fi Devices ↗
6GHz Guard Band, Power and Equipment Categories
The sections are illustrative and not drawn to scale. The licence describes the designated band as 5.925–6.425GHz.
HKCA 1081 Issue 2 (August 2025) specifies an operating range of 5.945–6.425GHz, with 5.925–5.945 GHz as the guard band. Maximum output is 24 dBm EIRP indoors and 14 dBm EIRP outdoors, subject to the LPI/VLP equipment categories and other technical conditions in ETSI EN 303 687.
Indoor APs Cannot Be Used Outdoors Just by Reducing Power.Check this together with equipment classes, certification and applicable conditions. EIRP includes antenna effects and is not a recommended configuration value.
Procurement: check models, verification and CA labels
6GHz Wi-Fi 6E/7 access points require certification. Certified access points sold in Hong Kong must carry the Communications Authority label. Client certification and labelling are voluntary, but clients must still meet the technical specifications.
- Ask the supplier for the exact model, Hong Kong verification and labelling information.
- Check the hardware version, firmware, supported bands and equipment category.
- Include equipment details, regional configuration and acceptance settings in the handover records.
Distinguish internal networks from public Wi-Fi services
Permission to use compliant equipment does not authorise the provision of public telecommunications services. Clause 4.3 of the Class Licence for 6 GHz Devices separately requires an appropriate service licence; public wireless LAN services also have class-licensing and registration arrangements.
Hotels, shopping malls, restaurants and campuses offering visitor connectivity should check the actual service model, operator and licensing responsibilities. Whether access is free does not by itself determine the applicable requirements.
Source:Communications Authority | Class Licence for 6 GHz Devices ↗；Communications Authority | Class Licences and Public Wireless LAN Services ↗
Include Compliance Requirements in the Project
Before the survey, record the location, indoor/outdoor use, equipment models and guest service model; during design, check bands, power, channels and client support; at handover, retain configuration and acceptance records. Check Hong Kong, Mainland China and Macao requirements separately.
This guide provides general information. Official rules are set out in Communications Authority and OFCA documents; the website does not replace equipment certification or a legal determination for an individual project.
View survey, design and acceptance methods →Common questions
Can Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 Be Used in Hong Kong?
Equipment that meets Hong Kong's band, technical and verification requirements may be used. 6 GHz is limited to the specified lower band; check the model, CA label and current specifications before purchasing.
Can changing the region setting alone make an overseas AP compliant?
A regional setting alone cannot establish compliance. Check the model's certification, labels, bands and equipment category. OFCA advises consumers not to buy overseas 6E/7 access points that do not meet Hong Kong requirements.
Must mobile phones also carry a CA label?
Certification and labelling arrangements differ for 6 GHz access points and client devices; certification is voluntary for clients, but they must still meet the applicable technical requirements.
Sources and updates
Regulatory requirements and technical references are checked separately. The following engineering checks are compiled by WiFi-HK and do not imply endorsement by regulators or equipment brands.
- OFCA | Smart Choice of Wi-Fi Devices ↗
- HKCA 1039 Issue 7 (August 2024) ↗
- HKCA 1081 Issue 2 (August 2025) ↗
- Communications Authority | Class Licence for 6 GHz Devices ↗
- Communications Authority | Class Licences and Public Wireless LAN Services ↗
Information verified: 10 October 2026 (Hong Kong time). Regulations and equipment requirements may change; check the formal specifications again before procurement and installation.
Turn knowledge into site improvements
Bring the problem locations, times, device models and floor plan to discuss the survey, AP planning and acceptance scope.