A Study on Coexistence Between RLANs and Uplink Fixed Satellite Services in the 6 GHz in Kenya

Abstract

2.4 GHz and 5 GHz spectrum bands haveserved Wi-Fi for quite some time now. However, they are now facing a number ofchallenges including congestion and restricted bandwidth. These two challengeslimit the achievable data rate. The Africa Telecommunication Union (ATU) hasrecommended the extension of Wi-Fi to the 6 GHz band (5.925 – 7.125 GHz). Kenyais currently considering the recommendation. The 6 GHz band can only be used byRadio Local Area Networks (RLANs) on the condition that they do not causeharmful interference to the incumbents. Therefore, before Wi-Fi can make use of6 GHz band, a coexistence study between Wi-Fi and existing incumbents in the 6GHz band has to be done. Uplink Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) are among theincumbents of the 6 GHz band in Kenya. Although similar coexistence studieshave been done, none has been done for Kenya and also the circumstances andparameters are different for Kenya. The aim of this paper, hence, is to presentthe results of the coexistence study we did between FSS uplink (earth to space)and RLANs in the 6 GHz band for Kenya. The paper also presents a simplifiedmethodology for conducting RLANs-FSS coexistence study. The results indicatethat RLANs can coexist with Fixed Satellite Services in the 6 GHz band with norisk of interference.