Accelerate Wi-Fi 7 Certification
ISO 17025-accredited lab · DFS & 6 GHz compliance · Regulatory & performance testing.We test and certify your Wi-Fi product for CE, FCC, ISED, MIC—and 200+ global markets.
IEEE 802.11
The Global Standard Behind Wi-Fi Certification
Since 1997, IEEE 802.11 has defined the evolution of wireless LAN (WLAN) technologies from basic 2.4 GHz connectivity to high-speed, low-latency Wi-Fi 7 across the 6 GHz band.
Key Milestones:
802.11n (2009): MIMO, dual-band (2.4 and 5 GHz), up to 600 Mbit/s
802.11ac (2013): 5 GHz, Gigabit Wi-Fi
802.11ax / Wi-Fi 6 (2019): OFDMA, 6 GHz support (Wi-Fi 6E)
802.11be / Wi-Fi 7 (2024): 320 MHz channels, 4K-QAM, multi-link operation
The consolidated IEEE 802.11-2020 standard forms the regulatory baseline for global Wi-Fi certification including RED (EU), FCC Part 15 (USA), ISED (Canada), MIC (Japan), and other national frameworks.
From DFS validation to 6 GHz band approval, certification depends on passing region-specific tests.
Wi-Fi Device Tests with DFS
Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS) test in our laboratory with the Rohde & Schwarz TS8997 wireless measurement system. DFS is critical for wireless networks in certain 5 GHz bands to avoid interference. Our demonstration shows how a primary Wi-Fi device detects radar signals, selects the channels and ensures seamless communication.
Benefit from our know-how and modern laboratory equipment and contact us for more information.
Wi-Fi Regulatory Standards
Standards by Region
We conduct compliance testing in accordance with the following standards applicable in each region:
| EU / CE | ETSI / Notified Body ETSI EN 300 328 • 2.4 GHz (2400–2483.5 MHz) ETSI EN 301 893 • 5 GHz (5150–5350 & 5470–5725 MHz) Defines output power, bandwidth, and DFS1 requirements for 5 GHz |
|---|---|
| USA | FCC FCC Part 15 § 15.247 • 902–928 MHz, 2.4 GHz, 5.8 GHz FCC Part 15 § 15.407 • U-NII bands incl. 6 GHz Routers and APs must comply with DFS* and TPC** where applicable |
| USA | ANSI ANSI C63.10-2020 • Test procedures for unlicensed devices Reference test method used in FCC compliance testing |
| Canada | ISED RSS-247 • DTS, FHSS4, LE-LAN (2.4 & 5 GHz) Aligned with FCC Part 15; required for wireless devices in Canada |
| Japan | MIC ARIB STD-T66 • Low-power data and WLAN (2.4 & 5 GHz) Requires JATE certification under MIC regulations |
| Region / Country | Authority | Core Standard | Frequency Scope / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| EU / CE | ETSI / Notified Body | ETSI EN 300 328 | 2.4 GHz (2400–2483.5 MHz) |
| EU / CE | ETSI / Notified Body | ETSI EN 301 893 | 5 GHz (5150–5350 & 5470–5725 MHz); defines output power, bandwidth, DFS1 |
| USA | FCC | FCC Part 15 § 15.247 | 902–928 MHz, 2.4 GHz, 5.8 GHz |
| USA | FCC | FCC Part 15 § 15.407 | U-NII bands2 incl. 6 GHz; DFS1 and TPC3 may apply |
| USA | ANSI | ANSI C63.10-2020 | Test procedures for unlicensed devices; reference method for FCC compliance testing |
| Canada | ISED | RSS-247 | DTS, FHSS4, LE-LAN (2.4 & 5 GHz); aligned with FCC Part 15 |
| Japan | MIC | ARIB STD-T66 | Low-power data and WLAN (2.4 & 5 GHz); requires JATE certification under MIC regulations |
For detailed guidance on Wi-Fi testing and approvals, explore our Wi-Fi Compliance Guide. It covers frequency bands, standards, test procedures, and certification workflows in one resource.
Wi-Fi Certification by Region
Understand the regulatory routes for global market access. Select your target region to learn more about applicable directives and certification procedures.
European Union
RED, EMCD & LVD define essential requirements for radio, EMC, and electrical safety in Europe.
USA
Unlicensed transmitters must comply with FCC Part 15. DFS, TPC, and EMC per ANSI C63.10 apply.
Canada
Wi-Fi devices require RSS-247 compliance and proper labeling for ISED approval in Canada.
Japan
ARIB STD-T66 applies to WLAN devices in Japan. MIC requires certification via JATE.
European Union
CE Compliance Explained for Wi-Fi Devices
Explore our detailed guides on the Radio Equipment Directive (RED), the EMC Directive and the Low Voltage Directive (LVD).
End-to-End Wi-Fi Compliance Services
We provide all essential testing services for international Wi-Fi certification—from radio requirements to full device safety.
Radio (RF)
Transmit power, spurious emissions, spectral masks, DFS/TPC, SAR, and more.
Electromagnetic Compatibility
Immunity and emission testing per EN 301 489-17, FCC Part 15, RSS-Gen, and more.
Electrical Safety
Electrical safety testing according to IEC 62368-1 for ICT and AV equipment.
Let's get in Touch
The experts at IB-Lenhardt AG and IBL-Lab GmbH are always there for you. Just contact us!WLAN Testing in Our EMC Lab
Meeting international standards is essential for launching Wi-Fi-enabled products worldwide.
Our EMC lab performs regulatory and pre-compliance testing to reduce costly redesigns and accelerate your time-to-market.
We support you with tailored planning, testing, and full certification services.
FAQ
- When do I need Wi-Fi certification?
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Every country requires certification before a wireless device is marketed or operated in its territory. This applies to all Wi-Fi frequency bands—2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz. Regulatory compliance is enforced through CE marking (EU), FCC/ISED approval (US/CA), MIC registration (JP), and other national schemes.
- Do I need different certifications for different markets?
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Yes. Wi-Fi certification is region-specific. CE marking in the EU does not cover the United States, Canada, Japan, or the UK. Each country applies its own radio, EMC, and safety standards—even when the underlying technology is the same (e.g. IEEE 802.11be for Wi-Fi 7).
- Can a pre-certified Wi-Fi module simplify approval?
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Using a certified module may reduce testing requirements, but most authorities still require evaluation of the final product. In the EU, this is known as "modular approval." For FCC compliance, a host integration review or permissive change is typically needed.
- How long does Wi-Fi testing and certification take?
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A full approval process usually takes 4–8 weeks, depending on the region, scope, and documentation quality. Pre-tested modules or limited change scenarios may allow faster turnaround. Expedited services can reduce this to ~2–3 weeks.
- What happens if a device fails DFS or EMC testing?
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If a device fails a test, it cannot be certified until the issue is resolved. Typical mitigation strategies include firmware restrictions (e.g. DFS channel limits), improved shielding, filtering, or PCB layout adjustments—often without full redesign.
- Is Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) allowed everywhere?
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No. While Wi-Fi 7 is standardized, 6 GHz band access is regulated nationally. The EU (5945–6425 MHz) and the US (5925–7125 MHz) allow it under specific conditions. Other countries—including India, China, and Brazil—are still evaluating or limiting 6 GHz access.
- How can I prepare my device for global certification?
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Start with a market-specific requirements analysis (e.g. RED, FCC Part 15, RSS-247). Use pre-compliance testing early in development to identify potential issues. Ensure labeling, documentation, and user manuals meet regional standards. Work with an accredited lab for test planning and execution.
Get in touch
Expertise for your Market Access
We guide you through the entire certification process for your Wi-Fi product—from planning to final approval.
Together, we develop tailored test strategies to accelerate your time-to-market. Our accredited lab, IBL-Lab GmbH, offers modern equipment and deep technical expertise.