ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses network convergence in a sixth generation (6G) world. New cellular and WiFi networks combined with space-based wireless networks necessitate multinetwork convergence in 6G. The evolution of convergence architecture is presented, and the relevant technical challenges are discussed. A technique called preamble puncturing proposed for both single and multi-user transmissions allows operation in dense WiFi environments with other networks occupying intermediate parts of a large bandwidth channel. MU-multiple input multiple outputs have also been introduced as a part of WiFi 5 with enhancements in the 802.11ax based WiFi 6 specifications. Multiple access points are used in various deployments, including homes and small businesses, to enable ubiquitous WiFi coverage in their respective spaces. The evolution of the fifth generation standards into 6G for satisfying many of these demands has led to standards activities such as 802.11be for delivering the WiFi 7 experience.
