Core Viewpoint - Wi-Fi 7 has transformative potential for industrial environments, promising ultra-fast and low-latency connectivity, which can significantly accelerate smart manufacturing, predictive maintenance, and AI-driven automation [3][17]. Common Mistakes in Deploying Wi-Fi 7 - **Mistake 1: Treating Wired Backbone as an Afterthought** Many factories still use outdated switches and Cat5 cabling, which cannot meet the high throughput demands of Wi-Fi 7, leading to performance bottlenecks [4][5][6]. - **Mistake 2: Ignoring Power Requirements in Harsh Environments** Wi-Fi 7 access points often require PoE Plus (802.3bt) power, but many industrial sites lack compatible equipment or stable power sources, risking performance degradation or complete failure of access points [7][8][9]. - **Mistake 3: Overlooking Radio Frequency Spectrum Complexity and 6 GHz Band Planning** The industrial environment poses challenges for wireless signals due to metal structures and thick concrete, complicating RF planning and increasing the likelihood of interference and signal attenuation [10]. Best Practices for Successful Deployment - **Foundation Upgrades** Upgrade to robust multi-gigabit switches and shielded Cat6A cabling to create a stable infrastructure. Address power issues through comprehensive power audits and deploying PoE++ switches or industrial-grade power injectors [11]. - **Environmental Challenges** Use IP67-rated Wi-Fi 7 access points and strategically deploy them based on comprehensive RF site surveys to optimize channel planning and reduce interference in metal-dense areas [12]. - **Network Logic Structure Design** Implement a wireless network architecture that isolates IT and OT traffic to ensure business continuity and facilitate fine-grained access control. Continuous monitoring and optimization of infrastructure are essential for maintaining system performance [12]. Security Considerations - **Misconception of WPA3 Security** While WPA3 is a mandatory certification for Wi-Fi 7, relying solely on it for industrial network security is a critical mistake. Compatibility with legacy devices can lead to downgraded connections, compromising overall security [13][14]. - **Security Design Principles** Security strategies should be multi-layered and proactive, using certificate-based authentication, strong network access control mechanisms, and zero-trust policies. Micro-segmentation between IT and OT systems is a key best practice to limit the impact of security incidents [15][16]. Conclusion - Wi-Fi 7 has the potential to be a game-changer in industrial connectivity, but successful deployment requires thoughtful planning, robust infrastructure, and a security-first approach [17].