On September 24, 2024, the Telecommunications Authority (PTA) of Pakistan published the Framework for Wireless Local Area Network - 2024. The framework provides regulatory guidance for the use of WLAN, Wi-Fi, and other unlicensed spectrum applications, such as the Internet of Things. It requires devices operating in the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz bands to comply with technical conditions designed to ensure coexistence with other services. The framework focuses on promoting efficient use of spectrum while preventing interference to key users.

According to the framework, WLAN devices can be used on a license-free basis, but must operate without interference. Commercial use of WLAN technology is limited to licensed telecommunications service providers. The document also specifies frequency bands, power limits, and conditions of use, including indoor and outdoor limits for certain frequency bands such as 5.925-6.425 GHz, as follows:

For indoor use: maximum average EIRP of 23 dBm and power spectral density not exceeding 10 dBm/MHz.

For outdoor use: maximum average EIRP of 14 dBm and power spectral density not exceeding 1 dBm/MHz (limit up to 10 dBm/MHz for narrowband operation below 20 MHz).

Click this link to view the original text of the 2024 Wireless LAN Framework.

On May 16, 2024, Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA), Hafeez Ur Rehman, announced the launch of Wi-Fi in the 6GHz band in Pakistan. Previously, on April 18, 2024, the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB) of Pakistan had approved the allocation of the frequency band 5925 – 6425 MHz for the use of license-free RLANs (Wi-Fi 6E) in Pakistan on an unprotected and interference-free basis according to the following technical parameters:

• Frequency band: 5925-6425MHz;
• Power: indoor 23dBm, 10dBm/MHz; 14dBm/MHz outdoors and 10dBm/MHz when operating at a smaller bandwidth.

The PTA notice has allowed type approval to be requested for new products with Wi-Fi 6E technology. In the case of a certified product, if the applicant can prove that the certified product supports Wi-Fi 6E, applicant can apply to the PTA to renew the certificate.

Click this link to view PTA's press release on enabling Wi-Fi 6E.