LiFi (Light Fidelity) is on the cusp of revolutionizing wireless communication. Traditionally, we've been dependent on radio-frequency (RF) technologies like Wi-Fi and 5G for our daily dose of digital connectivity. But with the recent release of the IEEE 802.11bb standard for LiFi, we are looking at a paradigm shift in the world of wireless data transfer. Unlike Wi-Fi that relies on radio waves, LiFi uses patterns of light to transmit data. This light can be visible or near-infrared, allowing for a spectrum that is less congested than traditional RF channels. There are lots of benefits to using LiFi Over WiFi.


LiFi’s Potential in Connectivity

The 802.11bb LiFi standard has the potential to deliver transfer speeds ranging from 10 Mbps to a whopping 9.6 Gbps. While the lower end may seem modest, it’s the upper end that draws attention. LiFi could theoretically transfer data twice as fast as today's Wi-Fi hardware, with maximum Wi-Fi 6E rates topping at 5.4 Gbps.

Fraunhofer HHI, one of the organizations supporting the new standard, points out that LiFi can serve as a high-speed alternative in areas where RF technologies face limitations. It’s particularly promising for fixed wireless access, classrooms, medical and industrial environments. Because LiFi operates in an exclusive optical spectrum, there is higher reliability and lower latency, which could make it the go-to solution for applications requiring instantaneous feedback and robust performance.

Data Security with LiFi

In a world where Wi-Fi vulnerabilities are exposed almost every week, data security is a massive concern. LiFi offers an advantage here too. With LiFi, every network connection is point-to-point, thereby requiring a direct line of sight for data transfer. Unlike Wi-Fi, which has a 360-degree field of view, intercepting data from a LiFi network would typically require an intruder to be physically present between the communicating devices. This makes LiFi a strong candidate for secure, wireless data transmission, particularly for government and industrial applications.

LiFi in Smart Homes

Though LiFi may not completely replace Wi-Fi in smart homes, it offers specific benefits. Even at its slower data transfer rates, LiFi would be sufficient for many smart home devices, which often need to send only small packets of data. Think about smart bulbs, thermostats, or locks; they usually need kilobytes rather than gigabytes of bandwidth. Plus, incorporating LiFi into a smart home would also relieve congestion on your Wi-Fi network, which could lead to smoother and faster operations across all connected devices.

LiFi Today: Real-world Applications

Companies like Panasonic, GE, and a host of startups like PureLiFi are already deep into the LiFi game. PureLiFi, for instance, has launched a product named "Light Antenna ONE," which facilitates 802.11bb compliance by appearing as another Wi-Fi band. This could serve as a stepping stone for LiFi to seamlessly integrate with existing Wi-Fi setups, thus aiding in quick adoption.

Going Beyond Connectivity: LiFi in Medical and Industrial Sectors

While connectivity and smart home applications are definitely a major selling point, LiFi has something else up its sleeve: its promise in specialized sectors like healthcare and industry. Take hospitals, for example, where traditional Wi-Fi can interfere with medical equipment. LiFi can function without causing such interference, making it ideal for sensitive environments where even the slightest error can be life-threatening.

Moreover, the low latency and high-speed nature of LiFi make it an excellent fit for industrial automation. In factories and manufacturing units where machines need to communicate in real-time to maintain efficiency and safety, LiFi could be a boon. It not only provides a faster method of data transmission but also adds a layer of security that is crucial in such environments.

The Promise of Bandwidth

One of the most exciting aspects of LiFi is its almost unfathomable bandwidth. While the technology is currently advertised with a peak throughput of 224 GB per second, real-world applications are witnessing 1GB per second speeds, which is still impressive. To put it into perspective, you could download an entire HD movie in just a few seconds at these speeds. This effectively negates the limitations posed by radio frequency bandwidth, allowing for more data-hungry applications and technologies to thrive.

LiFi and the Internet of Things (IoT)

As our homes and cities become smarter, the Internet of Things (IoT) is increasingly becoming a buzzword. Devices from your refrigerator to your car are now connected to the internet, providing convenience but also adding stress on existing Wi-Fi networks. The adoption of LiFi can significantly enhance the performance and security of IoT devices. It opens up an entirely new spectrum for devices to operate on, thus relieving congestion and increasing overall efficiency.

Energy Efficiency and Cost

It's not just speed and security that make LiFi attractive; it's also more energy-efficient compared to traditional wireless technologies. LEDs, which would be the primary source of LiFi transmission, consume less energy and are becoming increasingly inexpensive. Over time, as LiFi gains traction, the cost of implementing this technology is expected to go down, making it a viable alternative not just in terms of performance but also in cost-efficiency.

Interoperability with Wi-Fi

One of the significant hurdles any new technology faces is its compatibility with existing infrastructures. LiFi addresses this challenge effectively. As per the IEEE 802.11bb standard, LiFi is designed to integrate seamlessly with current Wi-Fi technologies. This means that the transition to or adoption of LiFi would not necessitate a complete overhaul of your existing network setup. It’s a win-win for both consumers and businesses.

Conclusion: The Future of LiFi

The IEEE 802.11bb standard is a game-changer, marking a significant milestone for LiFi. While it may not entirely replace Wi-Fi, it complements it beautifully by providing faster data transfer rates, enhanced security, and potential applications in various sectors, including smart homes. With the standard now in place, commercial LiFi products are expected to hit the market soon. The technology has its limitations, like the necessity for a direct line of sight, but its benefits, particularly in terms of speed and security, are too compelling to ignore. As we move towards an increasingly connected future, LiFi is indeed lighting the way.

About the author:

Jeroen van Gils

 Jeroen van Gils is the founder and managing director of LiFi.co, a leading voice in the promotion of LiFi technology. He also heads Morex, a digital solutions enterprise. With a fervent passion for LiFi technology, Jeroen is dedicated to exploring its myriad possibilities and transforming the way we connect.