Windows 11, introduced in late 2021, hasn’t seen the swift adoption among Windows 10 users that previous upgrades enjoyed. While the new operating system has its merits, it’s often perceived as lacking significant enhancements and, in some aspects, even a step backwards. Nonetheless, Microsoft has been actively adding compelling features to entice users to make the switch. However, a recent revelation from Intel appears to indicate that the forthcoming Wi-Fi 7 standard will exclusively support Windows 11.
This Intel document came to light through a familiar Twitter account recognized for leaks and advanced hardware information sharing. The document explicitly states that Wi-Fi 7 will be compatible solely with Windows 11, ChromeOS, and Linux. The rationale provided is that Microsoft will not endorse a driver for Windows 10. Effectively, Microsoft is taking a firm stance, ensuring that its aging operating system won’t be compatible with the latest Wi-Fi technology.
While there’s no inherent technical barrier preventing Windows 10 support for Wi-Fi 7, the context should be considered. Windows 10 will cease to receive security updates as of October 14, 2025. Therefore, even if Windows 10 were to embrace Wi-Fi 7, its compatibility would only extend for about a year before users on that OS would need to migrate to a newer version. Operating systems without security updates are generally not recommended for regular use, except for isolated systems. Given this timeframe, Microsoft’s decision seems more reasonable.
Assisting Microsoft’s endeavor to transition users to the new OS, both Qualcomm and MediaTek’s Wi-Fi 7 chips will also exclude Windows 10. Although Wi-Fi 7 routers are already announced, only a few client devices currently support the standard. Thus, it may take another year or even longer before Wi-Fi 7 becomes commonplace. It’s conceivable that Wi-Fi 7 might only become widespread when Windows 10 is nearing its obsolescence in two years.
In essence, Microsoft’s decision aligns with its goal of encouraging users to migrate from the older operating system. However, Microsoft’s approach might appear overbearing to some. Nevertheless, it’s worth noting that most individuals can continue functioning effectively with existing Wi-Fi standards for an extended period. Microsoft’s stance, while contentious, isn’t catastrophic. Notably, Windows 10 already supports Wi-Fi 6, which is sufficiently fast for the majority of users, at least until 2025.