From QCA9880 to QCN9024: A Comprehensive Upgrade from WiFi 5 to WiFi 6
As the demand for IoT, smart manufacturing, HD video streaming, and remote work continues to rise, WiFi technology has become the backbone of modern connectivity. The upgrade from WiFi 5 (802.11ac) to WiFi 6 (802.11ax) is no longer optional—it’s essential. Qualcomm’s QCA9880 was once a star in the WiFi 5 era, while the QCN9024 stands as a powerful representative of WiFi 6 with significantly improved efficiency and performance.
This article provides a detailed analysis of why migrating from QCA9880 to QCN9024 is a necessary and strategic move, exploring technical performance, system efficiency, deployment flexibility, application scenarios, future compatibility, and ROI.
1. Significant Leap in Technical Performance
| Feature | QCA9880 (WiFi 5) | QCN9024 (WiFi 6) | Upgrade Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| WiFi Standard | 802.11ac Wave2 | 802.11ax | Next-gen high-speed protocol |
| Frequency Bands | 2.4GHz / 5GHz | 2.4GHz / 5GHz | Same bands, higher performance |
| MIMO Configuration | 3x3 | 4x4 | Better parallel data capacity |
| Max PHY Throughput | ~1.3 Gbps | Up to 4.8 Gbps | Nearly 4x speed improvement |
| OFDMA | Not Supported | Supported | Lower latency, multi-user use |
| MU-MIMO | Downlink only | Uplink & Downlink | Higher user concurrency |
| QAM Modulation | 256-QAM | 1024-QAM | Higher data compression |
| Security Protocol | WPA2 | WPA3 | Stronger encryption |
Conclusion: QCN9024 outperforms QCA9880 across all major technical metrics, especially in throughput, latency, and multi-user capability.
2. Enhanced System Efficiency
WiFi 6 introduces several key technologies—OFDMA, TWT, and BSS Coloring—which allow QCN9024 to maintain stable performance in dense deployments, whereas QCA9880 struggles under load.
- OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access) : Splits channels into smaller subcarriers, enabling multiple devices to transmit simultaneously and efficiently.
- TWT (Target Wake Time) : Reduces power consumption by scheduling wake times for devices—ideal for IoT scenarios.
- BSS Coloring: Differentiates overlapping signals from neighboring APs, minimizing co-channel interference.
3. Greater Deployment Flexibility & Maintainability
QCN9024 supports PCIe 3.0, has open-source driver support via ath11k, and is compatible with major Linux systems, making it ideal for:
- Embedded gateways (OpenWRT/OpenWiFi)
- Enterprise-grade APs
- Industrial IoT devices
- High-performance wireless backhaul (Mesh/PtP)
It also enables advanced RF tuning and signal optimization for more efficient wireless coverage.
4. Broader Industry Applications
| Industry | Upgrade Advantages |
|---|---|
| Smart Campuses | Handles thousands of concurrent connections |
| Industrial IoT | Secure and low-power wireless data acquisition |
| Urban WiFi Coverage | Mesh + OFDMA enables low-cost wide-area rollout |
| Mining / Vehicle Comms | High mobility and interference resistance |
| Cloud Work / Video Conf | Smooth low-latency HD communication |
5. Future Compatibility & ROI Assurance
- Device Ecosystem: Most modern phones, laptops, and IoT devices now support WiFi 6—QCN9024 unlocks their full potential.
- Mature Software Support: ath11k drivers are stable and well-supported in modern Linux kernels and open-source platforms.
- Long-Term Availability: QCA9880 is nearing EOL (End of Life), while QCN9024 offers a clear roadmap and continued vendor support.
6. Conclusion: More Than a Replacement—A Complete Rebuild
While QCA9880 has served well, its limitations are increasingly evident under modern network demands. QCN9024 doesn’t just “replace” QCA9880—it rebuilds the wireless experience from the ground up, offering:
- Stronger market competitiveness
- Superior user experience
- Lower OPEX and support costs
- Better long-term investment returns
The next generation of wireless begins with QCN9024.