In July 2026, we published our decision on the registration conditions and process for AFC service providers as well as conditions for licenced exempt use of Standard Power devices.
An Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) system automatically determines spectrum availability and permitted power levels for higher-power (Standard Power) Wi Fi devices based on:
- the device's location and technical parameters; and
- information on protected services operating in the 5925–7125 MHz (6 GHz) band.
This enables higher-power and outdoor Wi-Fi devices to operate while supporting the continued protection of authorised users of the band from harmful interference.
This automated spectrum sharing promotes innovation and growth by allowing more spectrum users to deploy in a shared environment, leading to more efficient use of spectrum, whilst retaining flexibility to accommodate future primary users in the 6 GHz band.
Enabling higher power Wi Fi in the 6 GHz band may help meet demand in outdoor environments, such as sports stadiums, where dense access point deployments and additional channels can support very high data traffic requirements as well as provide additional spectrum solution for provision for fixed wireless access (FWA) particularly in rural areas.
Organisations intending to operate an AFC system (AFC Service Provider) must apply to and register with Ofcom before offering AFC services.
AFC service provider application pack
The following documents together describe the AFC service provider registration conditions as well as the application, assessment and registration process:
Prospective AFC service providers that successfully complete the registration process will be added to Ofcom-maintained register of approved providers.
Equipment vendors developing or deploying Standard Power devices and fixed client devices should note that:
- Operation in the 5925–7125 MHz band requires coordination via an approved AFC system;
- The AFC system determines available frequencies and maximum permitted transmit power for each deployed device; and
- Device location and other parameters are integral inputs to AFC operation.
Vendors should ensure that equipment is designed to interoperate correctly with registered AFC systems and to comply with applicable UK technical and regulatory requirements, including any relevant interface requirements or guidance published by Ofcom.