The World Broadband Association (WBBA) has set its sights on networking in the 5.5G and 6G era with the release of Net5.5G networking recommendations.

“Network Evolution for the 5.5G and 6G Era” technical recommendations aim to help the telecom ecosystem create ubiquitous 10 Gbps downlink/1 Gbps uplink networks that also will support 6G as it emerges. The recommendations envision networks that are operationally secure, comparatively less expensive to build, and highly efficient.

Net5.5G platforms will open a world of possibilities, according to the WBBA. For instance, users will be able to set up their own IoT networks on residential properties and employ their smartphones and other connected devices as gateways.

“Developments in AI computing applications and the metaverse have raised expectations of service agility and immersive experience assurance in business and consumer markets, and the networks currently in use are struggling to cope,” said Tayeb Ben Meriem, the vice chair of IPv6 Forum and WBBA Working Group co-chair. “IP transport networks must now be upgraded to support the increasing requirements from homes, business enterprises and mobile sites, and these will be driven by emerging applications.”

ZhongHua Chen, senior engineer and project manager at China Telecom and WBBA Working Group chair, noted that remote sensing technologies, remote AI applications and supercomputing will drive the need for ubiquitous 10 Gbps networking through 2030. Supporting these and sophisticated applications will require high bandwidth, low latency and intelligent management via end-to-end digital maps.

These networks also will support advanced customer service and technology innovations such as Wi-Fi7 and computing-aware networks.

Net5.5G recommendations were first published during the BDC Shanghai 2024 event at the end of June.