What frequency bands are being considered for 6G communication?

6G technology was still in its conceptual and early developmental stages, and specific frequency bands for 6G communication hadn't been fully standardized or universally agreed upon. However, several potential frequency ranges were being explored for potential use in 6G networks. These frequency bands are significantly higher than those used in current 5G networks and may include:

1. Terahertz (THz) Band: Frequencies above 100 GHz, potentially ranging up to several hundred GHz, fall within the terahertz band. These extremely high-frequency ranges have the potential to offer incredibly high data rates due to their large available bandwidth. However, they also pose challenges related to signal propagation, atmospheric absorption, and limited range, as they are susceptible to attenuation from environmental factors and obstacles.
2. Millimeter Waves (mmWave): Frequencies between 30 GHz and 300 GHz fall within the millimeter-wave spectrum. mmWave technology has already been explored and used to some extent in 5G networks. These frequencies offer higher data rates and larger bandwidths compared to lower frequencies, but they suffer from limited range and susceptibility to blockages by obstacles like buildings or foliage.
3. Sub-THz Bands: Frequencies in the sub-terahertz range, typically spanning from 300 GHz to 1 THz, are also being considered for 6G. These frequencies offer even wider bandwidths but face similar challenges in terms of signal propagation and attenuation due to atmospheric absorption and obstacles.
4. Optical and Infrared Bands: Some discussions within the 6G research community also include the potential use of optical and infrared frequencies for wireless communication. These bands operate at much higher frequencies than traditional radio frequencies, offering even larger bandwidths and data rates. However, they are highly directional and require line-of-sight communication, making them suitable for specific use cases rather than general wireless communication.

Each of these frequency bands has its advantages and challenges, and their adoption for 6G networks will depend on various factors such as technological advancements, regulatory considerations, standardization efforts, and the development of new communication techniques to mitigate the challenges associated with operating at such high frequencies.