Consultation: Enabling automated frequency coordination (AFC) in the 6 GHz band

This Consultation sets out our proposals for the process and conditions to enable an Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) system in the 5925 – 7125 MHz band (the 6 GHz band) and conditions to enable Standard Power Wi-Fi deployments under control of that system.

What we are proposing – in brief

Registration process and Registration conditions for AFC service providers

We are proposing a three-phase registration process for AFC service providers to apply for, obtain, and maintain Registration with Ofcom to provide AFC services in the UK.

We are proposing conditions of Registration that AFC service providers will need to comply with in order to achieve and maintain Registration with Ofcom, including the technical calculations necessary to protect existing services in the band; ensure licence data is kept securely; and requirements to manage and respond to interference.

We do not propose to set a fixed Registration term and are not proposing to charge AFC service providers for registering with Ofcom; or to regulate the prices they charge users for their services.
We have aligned these proposals with existing international frameworks where we consider this to be appropriate, aiming to minimise administrative burden on both prospective AFC service providers and Ofcom.

Technical conditions for the licence exempt use of Wi-Fi under AFC control

We are proposing technical conditions for the licence exempt operation of Wi-Fi under AFC control. These include:

• Standard Power Wi-Fi access points and fixed client devices shall have a geolocation capability and shall access an AFC system to determine the available frequencies and associated maximum transmit power levels at their location prior to transmitting.
• Mobile client devices operating in the 6 GHz band under the control of a Standard Power access point shall not be capable of initiating a network or connecting directly to another client device.

In addition, we are consulting on the draft notices and regulations necessary to register the AFC service provider and to enable the licence exempt use of the associated Wi-Fi devices.